Gateron Ink Red vs. Outemu Cold Plum
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Cold Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Cold Plum mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique features catered to different preferences. The Ink Red, with its lower actuation force, is ideal for those with a light typing style, providing a smooth and satisfying typing experience with a crispy and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Cold Plum stands out for its thocky sound profile and fully nylon construction, offering a distinct and enjoyable typing feel for enthusiasts. Each switch has its own strengths and characteristics that appeal to different users. 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
45g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Nylon
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Red features a proprietary INK blend top housing which is known for its pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, described as clacky. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum utilizes a nylon top housing which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic nature that absorbs more sound. While the Ink Red offers a more sharp and thin sound, the Cold Plum provides a rounder and duller sound, showcasing the different characteristics of their respective housing materials.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Gateron Ink Red also uses its proprietary INK blend which contributes to the overall sound profile of the switch. Similar to the top housing, the INK blend bottom housing produces a pointed and higher-pitched sound when the key is pressed. Conversely, the Outemu Cold Plum employs a nylon bottom housing, adding to the deeper and fuller sound experience when typing on the switches. The different housing materials in the bottom housing further differentiate the sound produced by these two switches.
Overall, the choice of housing material in a switch can significantly impact the sound and feel of typing. While both the Gateron Ink Red and the Outemu Cold Plum have their own unique housing materials, they each offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The INK blend in the Gateron switch provides a sharper and clacky sound, while the nylon material in the Outemu switch offers a deeper and rounder sound. Whether you prefer a more high-pitched typing experience or a fuller sound, the housing material of the switch plays a crucial role in achieving the desired outcome.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch reveals some key differences. The Gateron Ink Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium-weight option. In contrast, the Outemu Cold Plum has a higher actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Gateron switch for its lighter actuation force, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Outemu switch may appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial push feel while typing. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences in terms of typing feel and keypress feedback.
Travel distance
The Gateron Ink Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option compared to the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch which has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches offer a smooth linear typing experience, but the Ink Red provides a slightly deeper travel distance compared to the Cold Plum. For those who prefer quicker response times, the Cold Plum's shorter travel distance may be more appealing. However, if you enjoy a more substantial keystroke feel, the Ink Red with its longer travel distance may be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing experience and keypress responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Red has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Red for $7.35.
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 Gateron Ink Red linear switch offers a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, making it versatile for various typing styles and environments. The switch also has a unique chirpy quality that adds character to its overall sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch is known for its thocky sound profile, providing a distinct auditory experience that many enthusiasts find appealing. The differences in sound between these two switches make them suited for different preferences, with the Ink Red offering a more standard sound while the Cold Plum provides a more unique typing experience.
Moving on to the feel, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch is praised for its silky smooth typing experience, making it effortless to type on and reducing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The switch also offers a mild typing experience, falling into a safe middle-ground zone that most users find approachable. Additionally, the polished finish of the switch contributes to a sleek typing feel with reduced friction. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch is known for its smooth keystrokes and satisfying feel, thanks to its fully nylon construction. While specific descriptors for the feel of the Cold Plum switch were not provided, its overall reputation among enthusiasts indicates a positive tactile experience.
In conclusion, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ink Red provides a neutral sound profile, silky smooth feel, and polished finish, making it a versatile option for those seeking a reliable and comfortable typing experience. On the other hand, the Cold Plum switch delivers a thocky sound profile and smooth keystrokes, offering a unique typing feel that appeals to enthusiasts looking for something different. Despite their differences, both switches are high-quality options that will provide satisfying results based on individual preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, if you prefer a lighter typing experience with a crisp and clacky sound profile, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a unique thocky sound profile and a slightly heavier keystroke, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch could be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a smooth and effortless typing feel (Ink Red) or a distinct and satisfying sound experience (Cold Plum). Consider your typing style, sound preferences, and overall typing experience when choosing between these two switches.
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