Gateron Glory Yellow vs. Outemu Cold Plum

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Glory Yellow and the Outemu Cold Plum stand out as two compelling options for enthusiasts who appreciate linear switches. The Glory Yellow is celebrated for its heavier touch, offering a smooth keystroke with an appealing travel distance, which many typists find enhances their overall typing experience. This switch is perfect for users who prefer a bit more resistance, providing a sense of control and stability during use. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum switches are characterized by their unique thocky sound profile and durable nylon construction. They deliver a satisfying tactile feedback along with a smooth keystroke, making them an enticing option for those who value auditory and tactile sensations in their typing experience. Both switches cater to different preferences in feel and sound, highlighting the diverse needs of keyboard enthusiasts. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.

By the numbers

Gateron Glory Yellow Linear

Outemu Cold Plum Linear

$4.50

$4.19 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Gateron Glory Yellow and the Outemu Cold Plum both feature nylon housing in their design, with both the top and bottom portions crafted from this classic switch material. The use of nylon in both switches promotes a deeper and fuller sound profile, as the softer nature of the plastic absorbs sound more effectively than harder alternatives. When typing on either switch, users can expect a similar auditory experience characterized by a duller and rounder sound, thanks to the inherent acoustic properties of nylon. This congruence in material choice likely results in a consistent performance in terms of sound, making both switches appealing contenders for those seeking a rich typing experience.

Despite the correspondence in housing materials, the potential variations in other switch characteristics—such as actuation force, travel distance, and stem design—can result in contrasting typing feels and overall performances. While both switches share nylon housings that promise reduced sound transmission, the experience of bottoming out and key release could differ based on the internal mechanics and tuning of each switch. Therefore, while the sonic profiles are bound to be similar due to their nylon construction, the tactile feedback may still diverge depending on these other factors, providing users with different overall satisfaction.

Ultimately, the combination of the nylon top and bottom housings in both the Glory Yellow and Cold Plum can yield comparable sound qualities, appealing to users who prioritize auditory feedback. However, for typists who also care about the tactile satisfaction of pressing down on a switch or the feel of releasing it, these different designs and internal mechanisms could lead to distinguishable experiences. As such, while the nylon material supports a cohesive sound experience, individual preferences may guide users to favor one switch over the other, depending on their specific typing needs.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, we can observe notable differences in their actuation forces, although the bottom out force of the Gateron switch remains unknown. The Glory Yellow switch requires an actuation force of 50 grams, making it lighter and potentially more comfortable for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Cold Plum switch has a higher actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, classifying it as medium-heavy. This means that users looking for a more substantial typing experience would likely prefer the Cold Plum switch, while those who favor a lighter feel may opt for the Glory Yellow. Overall, the Outemu Cold Plum provides a heavier push, offering a tactile feedback that some users might find more satisfying, while the Gateron Glory Yellow allows for less forceful keystrokes, catering to those who prioritize ease and comfort.

Travel distance

The Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch offers a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that the Glory Yellow switch provides a more traditional and deeper feel, appealing to those who enjoy a hearty depth when pressing down on keys. In contrast, the Cold Plum switch, with its shorter travel distance, caters to users who prefer quicker response times, a feature often favored by gamers. While both switches fulfill different preferences—depth versus responsiveness—the Glory Yellow is the longer of the two, potentially delivering a more satisfying tactile experience for some users, whereas the Cold Plum may feel more abrupt and immediate for others.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Gateron Glory Yellow switch does not have a specific description provided, making it harder to directly compare its auditory qualities. However, the Outemu Cold Plum switch is characterized by its thocky sound profile, which is typically well-received among enthusiasts who appreciate a more satisfying acoustic feedback during typing. The sound produced by mechanical switches can heavily depend on other factors, such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used, so this could influence how the Glory Yellow sounds in practice.

In terms of feel, the Gateron Glory Yellow switch is noted for its smooth keystroke and pleasing travel distance, which contributes to an overall enjoyable typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum switch is also designed to provide a smooth keystroke but adds a unique element that many users find satisfying. This dual focus on a smooth keystroke means that both switches aim to deliver an enjoyable experience, allowing users to find comfort in either option.

In conclusion, both the Gateron Glory Yellow and Outemu Cold Plum switches are designed to provide a distinct and pleasurable typing experience, emphasizing smooth keystrokes. While the Cold Plum has a defined thocky sound that sets it apart, the aural qualities of the Glory Yellow remain unspecified. Ultimately, your choice may come down to personal preference regarding sound and the specific typing feel you're seeking, as each switch carries its own strengths and character that can enhance your keyboard experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron Glory Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, consider your personal preferences and typing style. The Glory Yellow is ideal for those who enjoy a smooth keystroke with a lightweight feel; it offers minimal resistance and a pleasing travel distance, resulting in an enjoyable typing experience that feels effortless. If you prioritize a smooth action with a quicker response, this switch might be the better choice for you, particularly for gaming or fast-paced typing tasks. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier actuation with a unique sound profile, the Outemu Cold Plum could be more appealing. Its medium-heavy bottom-out force of 70 grams provides a tactile feedback that many typists find satisfying, along with a thocky sound that adds an extra layer of enjoyment to your keystrokes. Enthusiasts often appreciate the fully nylon construction and distinct acoustic qualities that enhance the overall typing experience. Therefore, your choice should reflect whether you value a lighter, smoother feel or a heavier, sound-centric experience, ultimately aligning with how you engage with your keyboard day-to-day.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Glory Yellow Linear

$4.50

$4.19 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Cold Plum Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more