Kailh Box White vs. Outemu Cold Plum
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the Outemu Cold Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box White and Outemu Cold Plum are two popular options that offer different experiences for typists. The Box White is a clicky switch that provides maximum audio feedback, with a distinct "stepping on autumn leaves" crunch and accented tactility. On the other hand, the Cold Plum is a linear switch known for its thocky sound profile and smooth keystroke, making it a great choice for enthusiasts seeking a unique typing experience. Each switch has its own set of characteristics and advantages that may appeal to different preferences. 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
50g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box White and the Outemu Cold Plum, one key difference is in the top housing material. The Box White utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the Cold Plum features a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This variation in top housing materials results in distinct auditory experiences for users of each switch.
On the other hand, both the Box White and the Cold Plum switches share a nylon bottom housing material. This commonality means that when typing on either switch, users can expect a similar deep and full sound profile. The nylon bottom housing of these switches absorbs sound effectively, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housings. While the top housing may impact the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key for both switches.
Overall, the choice between the Kailh Box White and the Outemu Cold Plum will come down to individual preferences in sound profile. The stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the Box White is likely to produce a crisper and higher-pitched sound, while the softer nylon top housing of the Cold Plum will result in a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches offer a unique typing experience due to their housing materials, showcasing how different plastics can impact the overall sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
The Kailh Box White clicky switch has a lighter actuation force (50 grams) compared to the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch (60 grams). However, the Box White has a higher bottom out force (60 grams) than the Cold Plum (70 grams). This means that the Box White switch will be easier to trigger a keystroke with, but will require a firmer press to fully bottom out. On the other hand, the Cold Plum switch will require more force to initiate a keystroke, but will also provide a more substantial typing experience when bottoming out. Overall, those who prefer a lighter typing feel may lean towards the Box White switch, while those looking for a more robust typing experience may prefer the Cold Plum switch. Both switches provide a similar typing experience in terms of the difference between actuation force and bottom out force, with the Cold Plum being the heavier option overall.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, we can see that the Box White has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Cold Plum has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Cold Plum has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Box White. The Box White provides a bit more depth when pressing down on the key, which can be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial feel. On the other hand, the Cold Plum offers a quicker response time with its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers looking for speed and efficiency. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and the type of typing experience one is seeking.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Box White comes in at $2.76, whereas the Outemu Cold Plum comes in at $3.10.
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 Kailh Box White clicky switch is known for its resonant and high-pitched profile, giving off a crisp and sharp noise similar to stepping on crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch offers a thocky sound profile with a smooth keystroke, providing a unique typing experience. Both switches offer distinct sound qualities, with the Box White focusing on a more tactile and audible feedback, while the Cold Plum emphasizing a smooth and satisfying typing sound.
In terms of feel, the Kailh Box White switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. As for the Outemu Cold Plum switch, information on its feel is not provided. However, based on its fully nylon construction and smooth keystroke, it can be expected to offer a comfortable and seamless typing experience without the tactile feedback present in the Box White switch.
Overall, the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Box White provides a crunchy and resonant typing experience with high-pitched auditory feedback, the Cold Plum delivers a thocky sound profile with a smooth keystroke. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches cater to different typing styles and preferences, ensuring an enjoyable and personalized typing experience for enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you value maximum audio feedback and a high-pitched, resonant sound profile in your typing experience, the Kailh Box White clicky switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a unique thocky sound profile and fully nylon construction, along with a slightly heavier bottom out force, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch would be a great option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and desired typing experience. Regardless of your choice, both switches offer distinct qualities that can enhance your overall typing experience.
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