TTC Brother vs. Outemu Cold Plum
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the Outemu Cold Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, the decision ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. The TTC Brother is praised for its lightweight feel, audible crunchiness, and balanced tactile bump, making it a favorite among clicky switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum offers a thocky sound profile, smooth keystrokes, and fully nylon construction, providing a unique typing experience for those seeking a satisfying typing feel. 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
37g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial 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
17.5mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Brother and the Outemu Cold Plum switches both use nylon for the bottom housing, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. However, the Brother utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature. On the other hand, the Cold Plum features a nylon top housing, which also contributes to a deeper and fuller sound when typing.
In terms of aesthetics, the Brother's polycarbonate top housing is translucent, making it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. This allows for a visually appealing experience when using the switch with customizable lighting options. In contrast, the Cold Plum's nylon top housing does not offer the same level of transparency, potentially limiting its visual appeal in terms of RGB lighting options. However, both switches share the benefit of using nylon for the bottom housing, which creates a consistent deep and full sound profile regardless of the top housing material.
Overall, the choice between the TTC Brother and the Outemu Cold Plum switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. The Brother's combination of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials provides a unique blend of sharpness and depth in sound, as well as visual appeal with RGB lighting options. On the other hand, the Cold Plum's consistent use of nylon housing throughout may offer a more traditional sound profile, but may lack the visual customization options that the Brother provides. Ultimately, both switches offer quality housing materials that deliver a satisfying typing experience, with subtle differences in sound and aesthetics to suit different preferences.
Weight
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch's heavier actuation force of 60 grams. Both switches have an unknown bottom out force, so it's hard to directly compare them in that aspect. The Brother switch would provide a lighter typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Cold Plum switch's heavier actuation force would cater to users seeking a more substantial and tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on the individual's preference for actuation force and typing feel.
Travel distance
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Brother has a slightly longer travel distance than the Cold Plum. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. However, some users may find the longer travel distance of the Brother to provide a more satisfying depth when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for either a slightly longer or shorter travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Brother has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Brother for $3.30.
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 TTC Brother clicky switch offers a delightful crunchy sound that is synonymous with clicky switches, providing a satisfying auditory experience with each key press. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch is known for its thocky sound profile, offering a unique typing sound that enthusiasts appreciate. While both switches offer distinct sound profiles, the Brother's crunchy sound may be more appealing to those who enjoy a crisp and precise click with each keystroke.
In terms of feel, the TTC Brother clicky switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force to activate and providing a responsive and low-impact typing feel. Additionally, the Brother features a stepped design, offering a tactile bump that is felt distinctly but remains subtle enough to enhance the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch is known for its smooth keystroke and satisfying sound, providing a different typing experience compared to the Brother's tactile feedback. Both switches offer unique feels, with the Brother's easy-to-press design catering to those who prefer a lighter touch while the Cold Plum's smooth keystroke appeals to enthusiasts seeking a distinct typing experience.
Overall, when considering the sound and feel of the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, it is evident that both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Brother excels in providing a satisfyingly crunchy sound and an easy-to-press feel with a stepped design, the Cold Plum stands out for its thocky sound profile and smooth keystroke. Depending on personal preference and typing style, either switch can provide a rewarding typing experience, ensuring that newcomers to the world of mechanical keyboard switches will find a switch that suits their needs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when making the decision between the TTC Brother clicky switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a light actuation force, a satisfyingly crunchy sound, and a tactile bump that strikes the perfect balance, the TTC Brother clicky switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, a thocky sound profile, and a smooth keystroke with a nylon construction, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch may be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you find most enjoyable.
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