Gateron CM vs. Outemu Cold Plum
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the Outemu Cold Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron CM and Outemu Cold Plum stand out as popular choices for enthusiasts seeking a premium typing experience. The Gateron CM differentiates itself with its full nylon housing, providing a richer sound signature and a smooth typing journey complemented by an impeccable factory lube job. With lengthened, dual-staged springs, these switches offer a bouncy typing experience, described as 'Buttery', 'Bassy', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum switches boast a thocky sound profile and fully nylon construction, delivering a unique typing experience that is smooth and satisfying. While the Cold Plum switches lack specific categories, they are favored by users who appreciate a distinct and enjoyable 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
55g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron CM and the Outemu Cold Plum switches, it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This means that when it comes to the sound profile produced by typing on these switches, users can expect a deeper and fuller sound due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. As a result, both the CM and Cold Plum switches will offer a duller and rounder sound during typing.
While both switches share the same housing material, the impact of the housing material on typing experience may differ slightly between the two. For example, the bottom housing of a switch typically influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing has more of an impact on the sound when a key is released. Therefore, users may notice subtle differences in the feel and sound of typing between the Gateron CM and the Outemu Cold Plum switches based on the distribution of these qualities between the top and bottom housings of each switch.
Overall, the similarities in housing materials between the Gateron CM and the Outemu Cold Plum switches suggest that users can expect comparable results in terms of sound profile and typing experience. Both switches offer a deeper and fuller sound thanks to the use of nylon, which absorbs sound effectively. The minor variations in the impact of the housing material on typing experience between the top and bottom housings of each switch may result in subtle differences in the overall typing feel and sound, but the fundamental qualities of the nylon housing will remain consistent across both switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron CM linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. The CM switch has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, while the Cold Plum has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams. The actuation force of the CM switch is lighter compared to the Cold Plum switch, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time. On the other hand, the Cold Plum switch offers a heavier actuation force, providing a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push. Both switches have medium-heavy bottom out forces, ensuring that users will get similar results in terms of pressing all the way down. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation force and typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron CM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. This makes the Cold Plum switch slightly shorter in travel distance compared to the CM switch. The shorter travel distance of the Cold Plum switch may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the slightly longer travel distance of the CM switch may provide a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific feel that one is looking for in a keyboard switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron CM has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CM for $4.25.
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 CM linear switches are known for their bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile. The full nylon housing of the CM switches helps to produce a deeper and richer sound with each keystroke, creating a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switches offer a unique thocky sound profile due to their fully nylon construction. Both switches provide a distinct and enjoyable sound, but the CM switches may offer a slightly deeper and more bass-heavy tone compared to the Cold Plum switches.
In terms of feel, the Gateron CM linear switches are described as buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless, providing a smooth and fluid typing experience. The factory lube job on these switches contributes to the seamless and effortless keystroke sensation, making typing feel like gliding gracefully across the keys. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switches are not described in detail for their feel, but enthusiasts praise them for their smooth keystrokes and satisfying sound. Both switches promise a pleasant typing experience, but the CM switches may offer a slightly more refined and polished feel compared to the Cold Plum switches.
Overall, both the Gateron CM linear switches and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The CM switches provide a richer and deeper sound signature with a bouncy typing experience, while also delivering a buttery and polished feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Cold Plum switches offer a distinct thocky sound profile and smooth keystrokes, making them a great choice for enthusiasts seeking an enjoyable typing experience. With either switch, you can expect a satisfying and smooth typing journey, making both options excellent choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron CM linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for sound and feel. If you are seeking a switch with a bassy and thocky sound profile, as well as a buttery and polished feel, the Gateron CM switch with its full nylon housing and bouncy typing experience may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch that delivers a unique thocky sound and a smooth keystroke with a satisfying typing feel, the Outemu Cold Plum switch with its fully nylon construction could be the ideal choice. Consider your typing preferences and priorities when making your decision to ensure that you select the switch that will provide you with the best overall typing experience.
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