Gateron Jupiter Red vs. Outemu Cold Plum

Overview

When comparing the Gateron Jupiter Red and Outemu Cold Plum mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer a smooth typing experience favored by many enthusiasts. The Jupiter Red stands out for its medium-heavy actuation and high-precision molds, providing a seamless and consistent typing experience. On the other hand, the Cold Plum offers a unique thocky sound profile and fully nylon construction, appealing to those looking for a distinct and satisfying 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

Gateron Jupiter Red Linear

Outemu Cold Plum Linear

$2.80 per 10

$3.10 per 10

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Housing materials

In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Outemu Cold Plum switches, it is evident that they both use nylon for their bottom housings. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, which helps absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This similarity in bottom housing material suggests that both switches will likely provide similar typing experiences in terms of sound and feel.

However, the key difference lies in the top housing material used in each switch. The Jupiter Red utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that produces a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches that feature RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Cold Plum switch features a nylon top housing, which, as mentioned earlier, results in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate.

Overall, the choice between the Gateron Jupiter Red and the Outemu Cold Plum switches will ultimately depend on the user's preference for sound and feel. While both switches use nylon for their bottom housing, the contrasting top housing materials of polycarbonate and nylon will provide distinct typing experiences. Those who prefer a sharper and crisper sound may opt for the Jupiter Red, while individuals seeking a deeper and fuller sound may lean towards the Cold Plum. Either way, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences.

Weight

The Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Jupiter Red at 60 grams and the Cold Plum at 70 grams. This means that while the Cold Plum may require more force to initiate a keystroke, the overall typing experience in terms of bottoming out is similar for both switches. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Jupiter Red may be more suitable, especially for extended typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Cold Plum offers a more substantial push feel, which some users may prefer for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out force.

Travel distance

The Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. This makes the Cold Plum the shorter option. A shorter travel distance is often preferred by gamers for faster response times, while a longer travel distance can offer a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches provide a different typing experience due to their varying travel distances, with the Jupiter Red offering a slightly longer keystroke compared to the Cold Plum. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing experience and responsiveness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the sound of the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, the Jupiter Red is known for its neutral sound profile, which is suitable for a wide range of uses and preferences. On the other hand, the Cold Plum offers a unique thocky sound profile, providing a distinct and enjoyable typing experience. Ultimately, the sound produced by both switches will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.

Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Jupiter Red is praised for its polished, creamy, silky, and mild typing experience. These qualities result in a smooth and refined keystroke, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Conversely, information on the feel of the Outemu Cold Plum switch is unknown. However, based on the known characteristics of the switch, it can be assumed that it offers a similar smooth and satisfying typing experience as the Jupiter Red.

In conclusion, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch each have their own unique qualities when it comes to sound and feel. The Jupiter Red provides a neutral sound profile and a polished, creamy, silky, and mild typing experience, while the Cold Plum offers a distinctive thocky sound profile with a smooth keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences and the overall typing experience desired by the user.

Conclusion

To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, consider your preferences for key feel, sound profile, and actuation force. If you value a polished, creamy, silky, or mild typing experience with a neutral sound profile and a medium bottom out force, the Jupiter Red may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a thocky sound profile, fully nylon construction, and a unique typing feel with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Cold Plum could be the switch for you. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the specific characteristics that you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Jupiter Red Linear

$2.80 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Cold Plum Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more