TTC Iron vs. Outemu Cold Plum

Overview

When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the TTC Iron and Outemu Cold Plum, both of which are linear switches. The TTC Iron is favored for its pronounced clacky sound signature and swift, fatigue-free typing experience due to its light actuation and buttery smooth travel. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum stands out for its thocky sound profile and unique typing feel with fully nylon construction. While the Iron is described as easy-to-press and mild, the Cold Plum's specific categorization is not mentioned. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

TTC Iron Linear

Outemu Cold Plum Linear

$5.40

$4.30 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Iron and the Outemu Cold Plum switches, it is apparent that both switches aim to provide a deeper and fuller sound profile for users. The Iron utilizes POM for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a sound profile that is pleasing and unique with a deeper, more muted tone. On the other hand, the Cold Plum utilizes nylon for its top and bottom housing, which also produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. Despite the different materials used, both switches offer a similar sound experience for users looking for a more subdued and rounded sound.

However, the differences between the two housing materials become more prominent when considering the impact each has on the typing experience. The POM housing of the Iron switch will influence the bottom-out sound and feel, providing a unique tactile experience for users. Conversely, the nylon housing of the Cold Plum switch will affect the sound when releasing a key, offering a distinct sound profile when typing. This distinction in the impact of the housing materials highlights the importance of considering both top and bottom housing materials when selecting a switch for specific typing preferences.

Overall, both the TTC Iron and the Outemu Cold Plum switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences in typing experiences. While the Iron's POM housing creates a more muted and pleasing sound, the Cold Plum's nylon housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Understanding the impact of each housing material on the typing experience helps users make informed decisions based on their preferences for sound and feel when selecting a switch for their mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches provide quality options for users seeking a customized typing experience.

Weight

The TTC Iron linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 41 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. The actuation force of the Iron switch is lighter compared to the Cold Plum, while the bottom out force of the Cold Plum is heavier. Depending on personal preference, some may prefer the lighter force of the Iron switch for longer typing sessions, while others may opt for the heavier force of the Cold Plum switch for a more substantial feel.

Travel distance

The TTC Iron 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. The Iron switch offers a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Cold Plum switch. A 0.5 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can affect the overall feel and response of the keyboard. Gamers might prefer the Cold Plum switch for its shorter travel distance, which can result in faster response times. On the other hand, those who enjoy a deeper keystroke may find the Iron switch more satisfying. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound qualities of the TTC Iron linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, it is evident that the Iron switch offers a distinct clacky sound profile, while the Cold Plum switch provides a thocky sound experience. The Iron switch produces a sharp and snappy sound that adds a crisp and percussive element to typing, appealing to those who enjoy a more defined audible feedback. On the other hand, the Cold Plum switch offers a unique thocky sound that is characterized by a more muted tone, providing a softer and more subtle typing experience. Both switches offer enjoyable sound qualities, with the Iron switch being more pronounced and clacky, while the Cold Plum switch offers a quieter and thocky sound.

In terms of feel, the TTC Iron linear switch is known for its easy-to-press actuation and buttery smooth travel, making typing effortless and comfortable. The light actuation force of the Iron switch reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions, providing a responsive and low-impact typing feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch offers a smooth keystroke and a satisfying typing experience. While specific details about the feel of the Cold Plum switch are unknown, it can be inferred that its fully nylon construction contributes to a smooth and enjoyable typing feel.

In conclusion, the TTC Iron linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch each offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. The Iron switch is characterized by a clacky sound profile and easy-to-press actuation, appealing to those who enjoy a more pronounced audible feedback and light typing experience. On the other hand, the Cold Plum switch provides a thocky sound profile and smooth keystroke, offering a quieter typing experience with a satisfying feel. Ultimately, both switches are excellent choices for enthusiasts seeking precision and pleasure in every keystroke, with the Iron switch offering a more defined sound and light actuation, while the Cold Plum switch provides a quieter sound and smooth typing experience.

Conclusion

In closing, when deciding between the TTC Iron linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, consider your preferences for actuation force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a lighter actuation force, a clacky sound profile, and an easy-to-press typing experience, then the TTC Iron switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy actuation force, a thocky sound profile, and a mild typing experience, then the Outemu Cold Plum switch could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are seeking. Consider trying out both switches to see which one resonates with you the most.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Iron Linear

$5.40

$4.30 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Cold Plum Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more