Gateron Beer vs. Outemu Cold Plum
An in-depth look at the Gateron Beer and the Outemu Cold Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Beer and the Outemu Cold Plum offer distinct experiences for users. The Gateron Beer, known for its translucent green color reminiscent of a Tsingtao beer bottle, is a tactile switch with a stepped tactility that provides a lighter feel compared to traditional switches. It also boasts a characteristic clacky sound signature, making it appealing to those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum is a linear switch with a thocky sound profile and a fully nylon construction, delivering a smooth keystroke experience that is satisfying to enthusiasts. While the Gateron Beer is easy-to-press and offers a unique clacky feel, the Outemu Cold Plum provides a distinct and enjoyable typing feel with its smooth keystroke. 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
38g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Beer and the Outemu Cold Plum, it is evident that there are some significant differences. The Beer features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which results in a more clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the Cold Plum utilizes a nylon top housing, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the differences between the Beer and the Cold Plum continue to be apparent. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Beer mirrors the qualities of the top housing, creating a sharp and crisp sound profile. In contrast, the nylon bottom housing of the Cold Plum contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer and sound-absorbing nature. This variation in material between the two switches affects not only the sound produced when typing but also the overall feel of the switch.
While the housing materials of the Gateron Beer and the Outemu Cold Plum differ in terms of polycarbonate and nylon, respectively, the end results may still be somewhat similar. Both switches aim to provide an enhanced typing experience through their unique sound profiles created by the housing materials. The polycarbonate of the Beer may offer a sharper and clearer sound, while the nylon of the Cold Plum provides a deeper and fuller sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference in sound and feel when typing.
Weight
The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams compared to the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams. The Beer also has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Cold Plum has a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Beer make it ideal for those who prefer less resistance during typing or gaming sessions, allowing for longer use without fatigue. On the other hand, the Cold Plum provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces, appealing to users who desire a stronger push feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for typing experience and desired levels of force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Beer 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 shorter end of the spectrum, which is favored by gamers for faster response times. The slight difference in travel distance between the two may not be very noticeable in practical use, and both switches offer a relatively quick and responsive typing experience. However, if you prefer a slightly deeper keypress, you may find the Gateron Beer switch to be slightly more satisfying due to its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Beer has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Beer for $4.59.
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 Beer tactile switch is known for its clacky sound profile, which produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, giving off a crisp, bright, and percussive tone. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch does not have a specific sound description provided. Depending on other factors such as keyboard setup and keycaps, the Cold Plum may produce a different sound experience. Ultimately, if you prefer a switch with a distinct clacky sound, the Beer would be the way to go.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is described as easy-to-press and stepped. These attributes make it effortless and comfortable to type on, with minimal force required to activate the keys. The stepped tactility provides a more subtle feel compared to switches with a continuous curve, offering a unique typing experience. The Outemu Cold Plum linear switch does not have a specific feel description provided. Considering the characteristics of the Beer switch, if you enjoy a lightweight, easy-to-press switch with a stepped tactility, the Beer switch would be the preferred choice.
Overall, the Gateron Beer tactile switch offers a refreshing typing experience with its lightweight and easy-to-press design, along with a unique clacky sound signature. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch provides a thocky sound profile and fully nylon construction for a distinct typing feel. While specific details on the Cold Plum's sound and feel are unknown, opt for the Beer if you prefer a switch with a clacky sound and an easy-to-press, stepped tactile feel. Ultimately, both switches offer their own subjective qualities, so consider your preferences in sound and feel when deciding between the two.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a light and easy-to-press switch with a unique stepped tactile feel and clacky sound, the Gateron Beer would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a thocky sound profile and smooth keystrokes, the Outemu Cold Plum would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and the kind of typing experience you value most.
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