Dareu Holly vs. Outemu Cold Plum
An in-depth look at the Dareu Holly and the Outemu Cold Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, it becomes evident that each offers a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences. The Holly switch, known for its medium 50g actuation force, provides a balanced and distinctive typing experience with a sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements. On the other hand, the Cold Plum switch stands out for its thocky sound profile and smooth keystrokes, making it a great choice for enthusiasts seeking a satisfying typing feel. While both switches offer unique qualities, the Holly switch leans towards a chirpy and clacky sound profile, while the Cold Plum switch provides a more subdued typing experience. 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
50g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Dareu Holly and the Outemu Cold Plum utilize nylon as their bottom housing material, allowing for a deep and full sound profile while typing. Nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that emphasizes the tactile experience of typing on these switches. This similarity in bottom housing material ensures that users of both switches will enjoy a consistent typing experience, with a focus on a rich sound output and a cushioned feel.
On the other hand, the top housing materials of the Holly and the Cold Plum differ, with the Holly featuring a polycarbonate top housing while the Cold Plum boasts a nylon top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature, ideal for those looking for a more resonant sound. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Cold Plum produces a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This distinction in top housing materials results in a unique sound profile for each switch, catering to different preferences in sound and feel.
While the top housing materials of the Dareu Holly and the Outemu Cold Plum offer different acoustic profiles, the consistent use of nylon for their bottom housing ensures a similar tactile typing experience for users of both switches. This split in housing materials allows for a nuanced typing experience where the qualities of each material are showcased in different aspects of typing, such as the bottom-out sound and the sound when releasing a key. Whether you prefer the sharper sound of polycarbonate or the fuller sound of nylon, both switches offer a well-rounded typing experience with attention to detail in sound output and feel.
Weight
When comparing the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, one notable difference is in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Holly has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes, while the Cold Plum has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Holly's information is unavailable, whereas the Cold Plum requires a higher force of 70 grams to bottom out, providing a more substantial typing experience. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Holly would be the preferable option, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Cold Plum offers a more solid and pronounced typing feel for those who prefer a heavier push force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Dareu Holly tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Holly has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Cold Plum. The Holly's 4 mm travel distance is more traditional and provides a deeper key press feel, which may be preferable for those who like a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Cold Plum's 3.3 mm travel distance is on the shorter side, allowing for quicker response times and favored by gamers who prioritize speed. Both switches offer different advantages based on their travel distance, catering to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on whether you prioritize depth or responsiveness in your typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Holly has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Holly for $3.76.
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 Dareu Holly tactile switch offers a unique combination of chirpy and clacky elements, providing a balanced and distinctive typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch is praised for its thocky sound profile and fully nylon construction, delivering a smooth keystroke and satisfying sound that appeals to enthusiasts seeking a distinct typing feel. Depending on personal preference, users may gravitate towards the chirpy and clacky sound of the Holly or the thocky sound of the Cold Plum.
While the tactile feel of the Holly switch and the linear feel of the Cold Plum switch are not explicitly described, tactile switches like the Holly are known for providing tactile feedback through a bump in the keystroke, while linear switches like the Cold Plum offer a smooth and consistent keystroke without the tactile feedback. If both switches fall within their respective categories as expected, users can anticipate a tactile typing experience with the Holly and a linear typing experience with the Cold Plum.
In summary, the Dareu Holly tactile switch stands out for its unique sound signature combining chirpy and clacky elements, catering to users looking for a balanced and distinctive typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch offers a distinct thocky sound profile and smooth keystroke that appeals to enthusiasts seeking a satisfying typing feel. Whether you prefer the chirpy and clacky sounds of the Holly or the thocky sound of the Cold Plum, both switches provide unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience based on personal preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, consider your preferences for actuation force, sound profile, and typing experience. If you value a medium actuation force of 50g and enjoy a unique sound signature with chirpy and clacky elements, the Holly switch may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70g and appreciate a thocky sound profile along with a smooth keystroke, the Cold Plum switch could be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you prioritize, whether it be the distinct sound of the Holly or the satisfying feel of the Cold Plum. Choose wisely based on your preferences and enjoy the mechanical keyboard experience to the fullest.
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