Outemu Cream Blue vs. Gateron Silent Ink Black
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cream Blue and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Cream Blue and the Gateron Silent Ink Black offer unique typing experiences. The Cream Blue is a clicky switch, providing a satisfying audible click with every keystroke. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black is a linear switch, known for its quiet and smooth typing experience, making it ideal for quieter environments. If you prefer a tactile and clicky feedback, the Cream Blue might be the way to go. However, if you value a silent and refined typing experience, the Silent Ink Black could be the better option. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Cream Blue and the Gateron Silent Ink Black, it is clear that both switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Cream Blue features a nylon top and bottom housing, known for producing a deep and full sound profile that is duller and rounder due to its softer plastic composition. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black utilizes a proprietary INK blend top and bottom housing, which creates a pointed, high-pitched sound that is satisfyingly clacky without being overly sharp. Despite the differences in sound profiles, both housings offer unique qualities that enhance the typing experience.
While the Cream Blue and Silent Ink Black top housings have contrasting sound profiles, the bottom housings of these switches play a crucial role in dictating the bottom-out sound and feel. The Cream Blue's nylon bottom housing contributes to its deeper and fuller sound profile, adding to the overall typing experience. Similarly, the Silent Ink Black's proprietary INK blend bottom housing enhances its higher-pitched, clacky sound that is characteristic of the switch. The split qualities of the housing materials between the top and bottom of the switch illustrate how each component plays a significant role in the overall sound and feel of the switch.
Ultimately, whether you choose the Outemu Cream Blue or the Gateron Silent Ink Black, you can expect a unique typing experience based on the housing materials used in each switch. The Cream Blue's nylon housing offers a deep and dull sound profile, while the Silent Ink Black's proprietary INK blend housing produces a pointed, higher-pitched sound that is satisfyingly clacky. Both switches demonstrate the impact of housing materials on the overall sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard switch, highlighting the importance of material choice in achieving desired typing characteristics.
Weight
The actuation force for the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch is lighter at 50 grams compared to the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch at 60 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Cream Blue requires 65 grams, while the Silent Ink Black needs 70 grams, making them relatively similar in terms of heaviness. The Cream Blue provides a lighter actuation force, which may be more preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming, while the Silent Ink Black offers a slightly heavier push feel for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Both switches provide a medium-heavy bottom out force, offering a balanced typing experience overall.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users can expect a similar feeling when pressing down on the keys for both switches. The travel distance plays a significant role in the overall typing experience, affecting the tactile feedback and key response. While some users may prefer a shorter or longer travel distance based on personal preference, in this case, both switches offer the same distance for a consistent typing experience. Whether choosing the Cream Blue clicky switch or the Silent Ink Black linear switch, users can enjoy a 4 mm travel distance for their key switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Silent Ink Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Ink Black for $8.35.
The Outemu Cream Blue comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch is known for producing a traditional, loud clicky sound that is reminiscent of typewriters. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch is praised for its muted sound profile, making it ideal for quieter environments where noise is a concern. Both switches offer distinct auditory experiences, with the Cream Blue providing a more pronounced and clicky feedback, while the Silent Ink Black delivers a softer and quieter typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch is noted for offering a tactile and clicky typing experience that is satisfying for those who enjoy feedback with each key press. Conversely, the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch is described as silky and polished, providing an exceptionally smooth and refined typing feel with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences, with the Cream Blue emphasizing the tactile feedback of the clicky mechanism, and the Silent Ink Black focusing on a smooth and sleek typing experience.
Overall, choosing between the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a loud and clicky typing experience with tactile feedback, the Cream Blue may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a smooth and quiet typing experience with minimal noise, the Silent Ink Black is the way to go. Be sure to consider factors such as sound, feel, and your specific typing preferences when selecting the ideal switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch, you should consider your typing environment and preferences. If you appreciate a clicky switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and are not concerned about noise, the Cream Blue may be a good choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a slightly higher bottom out force and value a quieter typing experience, the Silent Ink Black could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize sound, feel, or a combination of both in your mechanical keyboard switch selection.
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