Bsun Avocado vs. Outemu Cold Plum
An in-depth look at the Bsun Avocado and the Outemu Cold Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the BSUN Avocado and Outemu Cold Plum offer distinct typing experiences. The BSUN Avocado is a tactile switch known for its sharp and snappy tactility, providing a satisfying feedback without being overwhelming. With a mild and neutral sound signature, the Avocado switch offers a delightful typing experience defined by its tactile sensations. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum is a linear switch that stands out for its thocky sound profile and fully nylon construction. The smooth keystrokes and enjoyable sound make the Cold Plum switch a popular choice among enthusiasts seeking a unique typing feel. While the Avocado excels in its tactile feedback, the Cold Plum focuses on its smooth keystrokes and distinctive sound profile. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Avocado and the Outemu Cold Plum, it is evident that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This commonality suggests that users of both switches can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
However, the top housing material is where these two switches differ. The Avocado features a polycarbonate top housing, which is a stiffer plastic that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. On the other hand, the Cold Plum uses a nylon top housing, known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound. This contrast in top housing materials indicates that users can expect a distinct sound profile when pressing and releasing keys on these two switches.
In terms of aesthetics, the Avocado's polycarbonate top housing offers translucency that is useful for RGB lighting effects, while the Cold Plum's nylon top housing may not have the same visual impact. Despite this difference, both switches prioritize sound quality in their housing materials, with the Avocado focusing on clarity and resonance, and the Cold Plum emphasizing depth and fullness in its sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound and aesthetics.
Weight
The Bsun Avocado tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch with a heavier actuation force of 60 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Avocado is slightly heavier at 65 grams compared to the Cold Plum at 70 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category in terms of force required. For those who prefer a lighter feel for typing over long periods, the Avocado may be the better choice, while those looking for a more substantial typing experience may prefer the Cold Plum. Overall, understanding the actuation and bottom out forces of switches can help users determine which one best suits their typing preferences.
Travel distance
The Bsun Avocado tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, making them ideal choices for those who prioritize fast response times. Gamers, in particular, may appreciate the shorter travel distance of these switches. The slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be noticeable to the average user, as both fall on the shorter end of the spectrum. Ultimately, the choice between the Avocado and Cold Plum switches may come down to personal preference in terms of how quickly and abruptly you prefer your key presses to feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Avocado has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Avocado for $4.00.
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
In conclusion, the Bsun Avocado tactile switch offers a satisfyingly tactile typing experience with a pronounced but not overwhelming bump, coupled with a mild and unobtrusive sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch provides a unique thocky sound profile and a smooth keystroke, making it a great choice for those looking for a distinct and enjoyable typing feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preference and the overall typing experience one is seeking to achieve.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch that offers a satisfying feedback with a buttery downstroke and minimal sound, the BSUN Avocado switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a unique thocky sound profile and smooth keystrokes, the Outemu Cold Plum switch might be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to your personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience. Consider these factors carefully to determine which switch aligns best with your typing style and preferences.