HMX 1989 vs. Outemu Cold Plum
An in-depth look at the HMX 1989 and the Outemu Cold Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the HMX 1989 and Outemu Cold Plum are two compelling options, each with their unique characteristics. The HMX 1989 is celebrated for its deep and thocky sound, offering a satisfying auditory feedback that many gamers and typists appreciate. Its design prioritizes a plush typing experience, ideal for those who desire an enhanced tactile presence while typing or gaming. On the other hand, Outemu Cold Plum switches are crafted with a fully nylon construction, delivering a distinctly smooth keystroke paired with a similarly appealing thocky sound profile. This combination makes the Cold Plum a favorite among enthusiasts who seek a whisper-soft yet enjoyable typing feel. While both switches provide excellent performance for linear switch lovers, their differing sound profiles and construction materials cater to various personal preferences. 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
45g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T5
Stem material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX 1989 and the Outemu Cold Plum switches, a notable difference is found in their top housing materials. The HMX 1989 features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for its stiffness and translucency. This rigidity allows for a sharper and crisper sound profile, making it particularly favorable for users who appreciate clear and resonant audio feedback when typing. Additionally, the polycarbonate's clarity enhances RGB lighting effects, allowing the illumination to shine through effectively. In contrast, the Outemu Cold Plum utilizes a nylon top housing, which is characterized by its softer texture. This material absorbs sound more effectively, resulting in a deeper and fuller audio profile that tends to be warmer in tone. Consequently, while both switches offer unique auditory experiences, the HMX 1989 leans toward a brighter sound, whereas the Cold Plum offers a more muted and rounded acoustic environment.
Examining the bottom housings, both switches employ nylon, which brings about similar acoustic characteristics. The influence of nylon in both the HMX 1989 and Outemu Cold Plum results in a deeper, fuller sound profile that enhances the overall typing experience. As a common material in the bottom housing, nylon effectively absorbs sound, creating a more subdued auditory effect during key presses. Since the bottom housing primarily impacts the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, both switches deliver a consistent experience in this regard. This means that regardless of the discrepancies in the top housing materials, the nylon bottom housing contributes to a familiar and comforting sound when typing on either switch.
In essence, the combination of materials in these two switches creates distinct yet complementary auditory profiles. The HMX 1989 offers a crisper and brighter sound due to its polycarbonate top housing, while the Outemu Cold Plum provides a warmer, deeper acoustic experience with its nylon top. However, both switches share the same nylon material in their bottom housings, which fosters a similar rounded sound profile during key presses. Thus, while users may find differences in typing acoustics between these two switches, the fundamental attributes that nylon brings to the bottom housing ensure that a level of consistency remains in their auditory experiences.
Weight
When comparing the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The HMX 1989 features an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. In contrast, the Outemu Cold Plum requires a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. This means that the HMX 1989 will feel lighter and may be more suitable for those who type over extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions, as it requires less force to register keystrokes. Conversely, the Cold Plum, with its stronger push feel, may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, users seeking a lighter touch will gravitate towards the HMX 1989, while those desiring more resistance in their keystrokes might find the Outemu Cold Plum more satisfying.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, there is a clear distinction between the two. The HMX 1989 features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it a more traditional choice that offers a hearty depth for those who appreciate a more pronounced keystroke. In contrast, the Outemu Cold Plum has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, appealing to those who prefer quicker response times, such as gamers, who benefit from the reduced distance. Ultimately, if you opt for the HMX 1989, you'll experience a more substantial keypress, while the Cold Plum will provide a snappier feel, ideal for fast-paced usage. Thus, the HMX 1989 is the longer switch at 4 mm compared to the 3.3 mm of the Outemu Cold Plum, catering to distinct user preferences in typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX 1989 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the 1989 for $3.29.
The Outemu Cold Plum 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 HMX 1989 switch is renowned for its deep, thocky profile, which resonates well with gamers and typists alike who appreciate a robust auditory feedback. Similarly, the Outemu Cold Plum switch also delivers a thocky sound, making it a favorite among enthusiasts seeking a rich acoustic experience. Both switches, therefore, share this commonality in sound profile, promising an enjoyable audio landscape. However, it’s important to remember that the overall sound can be influenced by the keyboard construction and keycap material used alongside these switches, potentially enhancing or muting their inherent qualities.
In terms of feel, the HMX 1989 is celebrated for its smooth keystrokes akin to the luxurious glide of silk, providing a seamless experience that promotes both speed and accuracy in typing. The Outemu Cold Plum switch also emphasizes smooth keystrokes, offering a delightful tactile sensation that engages users in a satisfying and immersive typing experience. Both switches share the hallmark of smoothness, ensuring that typists and gamers will find comfort in their operation, making them equally compelling choices for those who prioritize feel in their mechanical keyboards.
In conclusion, both the HMX 1989 and Outemu Cold Plum linear switches excel in offering a deep, thocky sound profile while providing smooth keystrokes that typists can appreciate. Their shared qualities make them appealing options for newcomers looking to explore mechanical keyboards. Whether one opts for the HMX 1989 with its distinctive thock or the Outemu Cold Plum, each switch promises a uniquely satisfying experience that caters to the needs of enthusiasts and newcomers alike.
Conclusion
To wrap up, your choice between the HMX 1989 linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-light feel combined with a deeper, thocky sound profile, the HMX 1989 is likely the better option for you. It’s particularly suited for gamers who appreciate a softer Actuation and a smoother keystroke in fast-paced situations, making it an excellent choice for long hours of gaming or typing without experiencing hand fatigue. On the other hand, if you appreciate a more robust and heavier keystroke with a pronounced sound signature, the Outemu Cold Plum switch would be more your speed. With its medium-heavy bottom out force and fully nylon construction, it provides a satisfying tactile response and is great for those who enjoy a more deliberate and weighted typing experience. Thus, consider whether you lean more towards a lighter and deeper switch like the HMX 1989 or a heavier and thocky option like the Outemu Cold Plum, and let that guide your final decision.
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