TTC Gold Red Pro vs. Outemu Cold Plum
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Outemu Cold Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The TTC Gold Red Pro and Outemu Cold Plum are both linear mechanical keyboard switches, each offering their own unique features and benefits. The Gold Red Pro is praised for its versatility and ease of press, providing a seamless typing experience suitable for a variety of users and settings. With a neutral sound signature, it is harmonious in any auditory environment, making it a great option for gaming, office work, or casual typing sessions. On the other hand, the Cold Plum stands out with its thocky sound profile and fully nylon construction, providing a unique and enjoyable typing experience for enthusiasts. 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
43g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
NPI
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
18.5mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Gold Red Pro and the Outemu Cold Plum switches offer distinct differences in sound profiles and tactile feedback due to their respective compositions. The Gold Red Pro's polycarbonate top housing contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiff nature, while the Cold Plum's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer composition that absorbs more sound. This means that users of the Gold Red Pro can expect a more resonant and clear typing experience, while those using the Cold Plum will enjoy a mellower and rounder sound when typing on the switch.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Gold Red Pro and the Cold Plum utilize nylon, offering a similar deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of the material. This means that the tactile feedback and sound produced when pressing down on these switches will be consistent regardless of the brand, providing a similar typing experience in that aspect. However, the split housing design of these switches means that the specific qualities of each material will be more prominent in either the top or bottom housing, affecting the overall typing experience for users.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gold Red Pro and the Cold Plum housing materials comes down to personal preference in sound profile and tactile feedback. While the Gold Red Pro's polycarbonate top housing may provide a sharper and crisper sound favored by some users, the Cold Plum's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound that may appeal to others. In contrast, the nylon bottom housing of both switches ensures a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel, showcasing the importance of housing materials in shaping the overall typing experience of mechanical switches.
Weight
In comparing the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, it is clear that they have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Gold Red Pro has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams, while the Cold Plum requires a heavier 60 grams of force to actuate. In terms of bottom out force, the Cold Plum is also heavier at 70 grams compared to the Gold Red Pro, which has an unknown bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience and longer periods of typing, the Gold Red Pro may be the preferred choice due to its lighter actuation force. However, for those who prefer a more substantial and sturdy typing feel, the Cold Plum with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces may be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Cold Plum has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Gold Red Pro. The Gold Red Pro falls closer to the traditional 4.0 mm travel distance, while the Cold Plum is on the shallower end at 3.3 mm. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Cold Plum with its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the Gold Red Pro. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for travel distance and keypress feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red Pro for $2.90.
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 Red Pro linear switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound profile that is neutral, making it suitable for various environments and preferences. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch is known for its distinct thocky sound profile, providing a unique and enjoyable typing experience for enthusiasts. While the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, both switches offer different but appealing auditory experiences.
When it comes to feel, the Gold Red Pro linear switch is polished, silky, mild, and subtle, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with a gentle resistance. This makes it suitable for a wide range of users who prefer a comfortable and approachable typing feel. Conversely, the Outemu Cold Plum switch's feel is not specified, but given its thocky sound profile, it can be inferred that it offers a satisfying and tactile typing experience. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences that cater to different preferences, making them suitable for diverse typing styles.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Gold Red Pro provides a versatile and neutral sound with a comfortable and polished typing feel, the Outemu Cold Plum offers a unique thocky sound profile that is likely accompanied by a tactile typing experience. Depending on personal preferences and typing habits, users can choose between these switches to enhance their typing experience and find the perfect match for their needs. Ultimately, both switches promise a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience for users seeking high-quality mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a versatile and adaptable switch that offers a seamless typing experience, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch may be the ideal choice for you. With its neutral sound profile and ease of press, it is suitable for various settings such as gaming, office work, or casual typing sessions. On the other hand, if you are seeking a unique typing experience with a thocky sound profile and smooth keystrokes, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preferences and the type of typing experience you are looking for.
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