TTC Gold Pink vs. Outemu Cold Plum
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Pink and the Outemu Cold Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Gold Pink and the Outemu Cold Plum mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Gold Pink, with its 37g actuation force and light and lively typing experience, is perfect for those who value a fast and effortless typing experience, particularly suited for rapid typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Cold Plum stands out for its thocky sound profile and smooth keystroke, providing enthusiasts with 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
37g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Pink and the Outemu Cold Plum, a significant difference can be seen in their top housings. The Gold Pink features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiff plastic that leads to a clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the Cold Plum utilizes a nylon top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to polycarbonate.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Gold Pink and the Cold Plum use nylon material. This choice of material leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches, as nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics. While the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. By utilizing nylon for both top and bottom housings, both the Gold Pink and the Cold Plum offer users a consistent typing experience with a focus on sound quality and comfort.
Overall, the choice between polycarbonate and nylon housing materials in switches like the Gold Pink and Cold Plum comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a sharper and crisper sound profile, the Gold Pink with its polycarbonate top housing may be the better option. On the other hand, if you enjoy a deeper and fuller sound, the Cold Plum's nylon top housing might be more appealing. Both switches offer a high level of customization and RGB lighting compatibility, making them suitable choices for those looking to enhance their typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch vary significantly. The Gold Pink switch has a light actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, providing a gentle typing experience. On the other hand, the Cold Plum switch offers a medium-heavy actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, which results in a more substantial typing feel. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the TTC Gold Pink switch, ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, individuals seeking a more robust typing feel may lean towards the Outemu Cold Plum switch for a heavier push. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Pink linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Gold Pink has a slightly longer travel distance, making it more suitable for those who prefer a deeper key press feel. On the other hand, the Cold Plum offers a shorter travel distance, which is favored by gamers looking for quicker response times. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Gold Pink being slightly longer than the Cold Plum. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on personal preference for key press depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Pink has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Pink for $4.28.
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 Gold Pink linear switch is known for its clacky sound profile, providing a satisfying level of feedback during typing sessions. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch offers a thocky sound profile that delivers a unique and distinct typing experience. Both switches have their own sound characteristics that can enhance the overall typing feel depending on personal preference and setup.
Moving on to feel, the Gold Pink switch is often described as buttery, mild, feathery, subtle, and polished, offering a smooth, gentle, light, yet refined typing experience. On the contrary, the feel of the Outemu Cold Plum switch is not explicitly provided in the information given. However, with its fully nylon construction and smooth keystroke, it can be assumed that this switch provides a comfortable and pleasant typing sensation for enthusiasts.
In conclusion, both the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch offer unique and enjoyable typing experiences with their different sound profiles and potential feel characteristics. While the Gold Pink is known for its light actuation force and clacky sound, the Cold Plum stands out with its thocky sound profile and fully nylon construction. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of sound and feel, as both can provide a satisfying typing experience in their own right. Knowing these subjective qualities can help newcomers decide which switch aligns best with their preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a light and effortless typing experience with a clacky sound, the Gold Pink linear switches with their 45g bottom out force and 37g actuation force are the way to go. These switches are ideal for rapid typing and gaming, providing a satisfying level of feedback. On the other hand, if you prefer a distinctive thocky sound profile and a smooth keystroke, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switches with their 70g bottom out force offer a unique typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between the Gold Pink and Cold Plum switches will depend on whether you prioritize a lighter typing feel and clacky sound or a heavier typing feel with a thocky sound. Both switches offer their own advantages, so consider your preferences and typing style before making a decision.
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