Durock Blue Lotus vs. Outemu Cold Plum
An in-depth look at the Durock Blue Lotus and the Outemu Cold Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Blue Lotus and Outemu Cold Plum stand out as popular choices for different reasons. The Durock Blue Lotus is a tactile switch that offers a blend of tactile intensity and swift responsiveness, making it perfect for those who prefer a marked tactile feel. With a slightly reduced travel distance of 3.7mm and a detachable light column for vibrant RGB illumination, these switches not only perform well but also look visually appealing. In contrast, the Outemu Cold Plum is a linear switch known for its thocky sound profile and smooth keystrokes, thanks to its fully nylon construction. Enthusiasts seeking a distinct and enjoyable typing experience may find the Cold Plum switches to be the right choice for them. 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
55g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Durock Blue Lotus and the Outemu Cold Plum, it is evident that both switches utilize nylon in their bottom housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a deeper and fuller sound profile for typing. This results in a duller and rounder sound, providing a unique typing experience for users. However, the top housing of the Blue Lotus consists of a modified PC and UPE blend, which gives it a premium and unique feel. On the other hand, the Cold Plum features a nylon top housing that also contributes to the switches' sound profile by producing a deeper and fuller sound.
While both the Blue Lotus and the Cold Plum switches share the use of nylon in their bottom housing, they differ in their top housing materials. The Blue Lotus stands out with its modified PC and UPE blend top housing, providing a premium feel that is unique to this switch. In contrast, the Cold Plum's nylon top housing offers a more traditional sound profile that is deeper and fuller, thanks to the absorbing properties of nylon. Despite the differences in top housing materials, both switches deliver a satisfying typing experience with their use of nylon in the bottom housing, enhancing the overall sound profile and feel.
The distinction between the top and bottom housing materials of the Blue Lotus and Cold Plum switches plays a significant role in the typing experience they offer. The bottom housing, made of nylon in both switches, impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when the keys are pressed. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile that complements the typing experience. On the other hand, the top housing material influences the sound produced when a key is released. The modified PC and UPE blend of the Blue Lotus adds a premium feel, while the nylon top housing of the Cold Plum contributes to a classic typing sound profile. Despite these differences, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience with their unique housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, it is clear that the Cold Plum is slightly heavier in both aspects. The Blue Lotus has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Cold Plum has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category, providing a substantial typing experience for those who prefer a bit of resistance. Those who enjoy a lighter typing feel may lean towards the Blue Lotus, allowing them to type for longer periods comfortably. Conversely, individuals seeking a stronger push and a more satisfying typing experience may opt for the Cold Plum for a more substantial feel with each keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out forces for the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, making it slightly longer than the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, with the Blue Lotus being a bit more substantial in its travel. Gamers looking for a quicker response time may lean towards the Cold Plum for its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more pronounced key press may opt for the Blue Lotus. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference regarding travel distance and key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Blue Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Blue Lotus for $4.57.
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 Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch is known for its bassy profile, offering a deeper and richer sound during key presses. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch is not available. It's important to note that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch is described as accented, providing a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. These switches are also snappy, offering super responsiveness due to their design. Additionally, they have a stepped feel, providing a tactile experience with two stages of feedback. Unfortunately, there is no available information on the feel of the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch.
In conclusion, the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch stands out for its tactile intensity, swift responsiveness, and unique sound profile. With a blend of visual appeal and performance, it offers a satisfying typing experience for enthusiasts. While the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch may also provide an enjoyable typing feel with its thocky sound profile and nylon construction, more information on its sound and feel characteristics would be needed for a comprehensive comparison. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences, so choosing between the two would depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Durock Blue Lotus tactile switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, consider your preference for tactile intensity and swift responsiveness. If you prioritize a marked tactile feel with a slightly reduced travel distance, the Blue Lotus switches are the way to go. On the other hand, if you are seeking a unique typing experience with a thocky sound profile and smooth keystrokes, the Cold Plum switches would be the better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize tactile feedback and visual appeal or a distinct typing feel and satisfying sound profile. Assess your typing preferences and choose the switch that aligns best with your desired experience.
Mentioned in this article
