Gateron Aliaz vs. Outemu Cold Plum
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Outemu Cold Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz and the Outemu Cold Plum mechanical keyboard switches, it's apparent that each offers a distinct typing experience catering to different preferences. The Aliaz switch is ideal for those working in quiet environments like offices, as it boasts a silent design and medium-heavy weight which provides a substantial feel to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum switch stands out for its thocky sound profile and smooth keystrokes, appealing to enthusiasts looking for a unique and enjoyable typing feel. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, making them suitable for different types of users. 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
60g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
75g
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
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and the Outemu Cold Plum, we can see that they both offer unique characteristics in terms of sound profile. The Aliaz's polycarbonate top and bottom housing create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material, while the Cold Plum's nylon top and bottom housing result in a deeper and fuller sound profile because of the softer nature of nylon. This contrast in sound profiles can greatly impact the overall typing experience for users, with the Aliaz providing a more clear and resonant sound, and the Cold Plum offering a duller and rounder sound.
Aesthetically, the use of polycarbonate in the Aliaz's housing allows for a translucent finish, making it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. On the other hand, the nylon housing of the Cold Plum does not offer the same translucency but still provides a classic and durable material for switch housing. While the Aliaz's polycarbonate housing may be more visually impressive for RGB enthusiasts, the Cold Plum's nylon housing offers a timeless and reliable option for those looking for a switch that prioritizes functionality over aesthetics.
In terms of typing feel, the qualities of the bottom housing material will have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material will influence the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the choice between the Gateron Aliaz and the Outemu Cold Plum ultimately comes down to personal preference and what qualities users prioritize in their typing experience, whether it be a sharper, crisper sound or a deeper, fuller sound profile.
Weight
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch both have the same actuation force of 60 grams, making them equal in that aspect. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Aliaz has a heavier force of 75 grams compared to the Cold Plum's 70 grams, making the Aliaz the heavier option between the two. The heavier bottom out force of the Aliaz provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Cold Plum's slightly lighter bottom out force may be more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience that allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. Both switches offer similar results in terms of actuation force, but the slight difference in bottom out force can cater to different preferences for typing feel and intensity.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, it is evident that the Aliaz has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Cold Plum's 3.3 mm. The Aliaz offers a more traditional depth, providing a hearty feel when typing, while the Cold Plum offers a slightly shallower depth, ideal for those seeking a quicker response time. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Cold Plum for faster key presses during gameplay. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference: those who prefer a more responsive feel may opt for the Cold Plum, while those who enjoy a deeper keystroke may favor the Aliaz.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
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 Gateron Aliaz tactile switch offers a muted typing experience, perfect for quiet environments like the office. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch is known for its thocky sound profile, providing a unique and satisfying auditory feedback. Both switches offer a different sound profile, so the choice between the two would depend on personal preference and the environment in which the keyboard will be used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch is described as silky and polished, offering an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience. The medium-heavy weight of the switch adds to the substantial feel of each keystroke. On the other hand, information about the feel of the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch is unknown, so it's difficult to compare the two switches in this aspect.
Overall, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch provide different subjective qualities to users. The Aliaz is best suited for those who want a quiet typing experience with a medium-heavy weight and smooth keystrokes, while the Cold Plum is ideal for enthusiasts seeking a distinct and enjoyable typing feel with a thocky sound profile. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance the overall typing experience for mechanical keyboard users.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, consider the environment in which you will be using the keyboard. If you value a quiet typing experience, the Aliaz switch would be ideal for office settings or shared spaces due to its silent design. The medium-heavy weight of the Aliaz provides a substantial feel to each keystroke, perfect for those who prefer a more pronounced typing feedback without the noise. On the other hand, if you are a keyboard enthusiast seeking a unique and enjoyable typing experience with a thocky sound profile, the Outemu Cold Plum switch would be a great choice. The smooth keystroke and satisfying sound make the Cold Plum switch stand out for those looking for a distinct typing feel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for typing feel and sound, as well as the specific environment in which you will be using the keyboard.
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