Kailh Box White V2 vs. Outemu Cold Plum
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White V2 and the Outemu Cold Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between the tactile feedback of clicky switches and the smooth operation of linear alternatives. On one hand, Kailh Box White V2 switches offer a delightful clicky experience, boasting crisp tactile feedback and an audible click that many typists and gamers appreciate for its satisfying responsiveness. This makes them ideal for those who want to feel and hear their keystrokes, enhancing the overall typing experience. On the other hand, Outemu Cold Plum switches present a striking contrast with their linear design, featuring a smooth keystroke and a distinct thocky sound profile that appeals to users seeking a more fluid typing motion without the interruption of a click. The fully nylon construction of the Cold Plum switches contributes to their unique feel, making them a popular option for those who prioritize a quiet yet satisfying tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on personal preference—whether you favor the pronounced feedback of the Box White V2 or the silky smoothness of the Cold Plum. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Kailh Box White V2 and Outemu Cold Plum switches showcase significant differences in their housing materials, which directly influences the auditory and tactile experiences they offer. The Box White V2 features a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, while the Cold Plum uses a nylon top and bottom housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Box White V2 provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature. This has the added benefit of enhancing RGB lighting effects, given the translucency of polycarbonate. In contrast, the Cold Plum’s nylon top housing results in a deeper, fuller sound profile, as nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, producing a rounder overall acoustic characteristic.
When assessing the bottom housings, both the Box White V2 and the Outemu Cold Plum utilize nylon, reinforcing the deeper sound profile sourced from this material. The inclusion of nylon in the bottom housing for both switches ensures that the typing experience retains a certain consistency in terms of the auditory feedback. Since both switches share this nylon bottom housing, they elicit similar acoustic qualities when bottomed out, providing that comforting, dull thud that users often favor in mechanical keyboards. Thus, while the top housings of the two switches differ significantly—affecting their sounds on key release—both switches share a commonality in their bottom housings that contributes to an enjoyable typing experience.
Ultimately, the interaction between the two different top housing materials and the shared nylon bottoms creates distinct sound profiles for each switch. The Box White V2's polycarbonate top produces a brighter sound when releasing the key, while the Cold Plum's nylon top may feel warmer and less abrasive on key release. Despite the contrasting materials above, the nylon base functions similarly in both switches, providing consistent, deeper resonance during key presses. Therefore, users can expect a substantial variance in acoustic characteristics during typing sessions, particularly on key release, yet a shared experience during the bottom-out phase, thanks to the nylon bottom housing present in both switches.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Box White V2 features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming, as it requires less effort to register a keystroke. In contrast, the Outemu Cold Plum utilizes a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for users who prefer a firmer push sensation. This means that while both switches can offer satisfying typing experiences, the Box White V2 is better suited for those who favor a lighter touch, whereas the Cold Plum caters to users who appreciate a heavier key feel. Therefore, if you're looking for something easier on the fingers over long durations, the Kailh Box White V2 is the preferable choice, while the Outemu Cold Plum is more aligned with those desiring a stronger tactile response.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, we find that the Box White V2 has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Cold Plum features a slightly shorter distance of 3.3 mm. This means that the Box White V2 provides a deeper keystroke experience, which may appeal to users who appreciate a more pronounced feel when typing or gaming. In contrast, the Cold Plum's shorter travel distance may offer quicker response times, making it a preferable choice for gamers seeking swift input. Therefore, if you prioritize rapid reactions, the Outemu Cold Plum would be the better option, whereas those who enjoy a fuller typing experience might gravitate towards the Kailh Box White V2.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Kailh Box White V2 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Box White V2 for $3.00.
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 terms of sound, the Kailh Box White V2 switches produce a sharp, crisp click that is highly audible with each keystroke. This loud and clear feedback is particularly favored by users who enjoy a pronounced auditory signal when typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum switches are characterized by their thocky sound profile, which provides a deeper, more muted sound compared to the Box White V2. This allows for a satisfying auditory experience that complements the smoothness of the keystrokes. While both switches offer distinct sounds, the clickiness of the Box White V2 makes it stand out for those who prioritize an audible tactile response.
When considering feel, the Kailh Box White V2 switches are known for their crisp tactile feedback, making each keypress feel precise and responsive. The switch provides a definitive bump at the actuation point, which can enhance typing accuracy. In contrast, the Outemu Cold Plum switches offer a smooth and linear feel, devoid of any tactile bump, making for an uninterrupted keystroke that is favored by those who prefer a fluid typing experience. This smoothness, combined with their thocky sound profile, produces a unique sensation that many enthusiasts find enjoyable, especially in rapid typing scenarios.
Overall, the Kailh Box White V2 clicky switches and Outemu Cold Plum linear switches provide two distinct mechanical experiences, each catering to different user preferences. While the Box White V2 excels in auditory feedback and tactile response, the Cold Plum switches focus on a smoother typing feel paired with a deeper sound. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on whether you prefer the pronounced click of a tactile switch or the silent flow of a linear option. Each switch has its merits and can deliver an engaging typing experience based on personal preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Kailh Box White V2 and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you're someone who enjoys a light touch and craves auditory feedback, the Box White V2 will serve you well with its crisp, clicky sound and tactile bumps that enhance the typing experience. This switch is ideal for typists who thrive on feedback and enjoy the satisfaction of hearing each keystroke clearly, making it perfect for typing-intensive environments and gaming where precise keystrokes are essential. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, more refined experience with a heavier actuation, the Outemu Cold Plum may be the better option for you. Offering a pleasing thocky sound and a solid bottom out force that adds to the overall stability, this switch provides a comfortable and engaging typing sensation for enthusiasts who appreciate a more pronounced resistance and a quieter typing experience. Consider your priorities—whether you lean towards the tactile and communicative nature of clicky switches or the smooth, subtle feedback of linear switches—and make your selection accordingly to maximize your keyboard enjoyment.
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