KTT Kang White vs. Outemu Cold Plum
An in-depth look at the KTT Kang White and the Outemu Cold Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Kang White linear switch to the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Kang White is praised for its dazzling typing sound and unparalleled smoothness, thanks to its self-lubricating material, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a low-pitched and neutral typing experience. On the other hand, the Cold Plum stands out for its thocky sound profile and fully nylon construction, providing a smooth keystroke and satisfying sound that appeals to enthusiasts seeking a distinct and enjoyable 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
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the KTT Kang White and the Outemu Cold Plum, we see that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. This classic switch housing material is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. The nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to the overall typing experience by providing a duller and rounder sound upon bottoming out the keys.
However, when it comes to the top housing, the KTT Kang White utilizes polycarbonate while the Outemu Cold Plum sticks with nylon. The polycarbonate top housing of the Kang White creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer plastic composition. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Cold Plum produces a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. This difference in housing materials affects the overall sound and feel of the switch, making the Kang White more suitable for those who prefer a clearer and more resonant sound, while the Cold Plum is better suited for those who enjoy a deeper and fuller sound.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials for the top and bottom of a switch plays a significant role in shaping the sound profile and typing experience. While the KTT Kang White and Outemu Cold Plum both use nylon for their bottom housing, they differ in their top housing materials with the Kang White opting for polycarbonate and the Cold Plum sticking with nylon. Depending on individual preferences for sound profiles, users can choose between a sharper and crisper sound with the Kang White or a deeper and fuller sound with the Cold Plum. Ultimately, the combination of housing materials in a switch determines the overall sound and feel when typing, making it essential to consider these factors when selecting a switch for your keyboard.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Kang White linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, it is evident that the Kang White requires a lighter touch overall. The Kang White has an actuation force of 45 grams, which is lighter than the Cold Plum's 60 grams. Additionally, the Kang White has a bottom out force of 58 grams, while the Cold Plum requires 70 grams to bottom out. Both switches fall into the medium range, but the Cold Plum is slightly heavier than the Kang White. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, the Kang White may be the preferred choice. However, individuals looking for a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Cold Plum due to its heavier actuation and bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The KTT Kang White linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a traditional distance for keyboard switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. Gamers often prefer switches with shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times, making the Cold Plum a popular choice for gaming keyboards. However, some users may find the shorter travel distance to be too abrupt and prefer the more traditional feel of the Kang White switch. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding response time and key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Kang White comes in at $1.99, whereas the Outemu Cold Plum comes in at $3.10.
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 Kang White linear switch is known for its low-pitched and neutral sound profile, offering a bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for a variety of users and environments. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch provides a thocky sound profile, which is distinctive and satisfying for those who enjoy a more pronounced typing sound. Both switches offer unique auditory experiences that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can find the right fit based on their sound preferences, keycaps, and keyboard setup.
In terms of feel, specific information on the subjective qualities of the Kang White and Cold Plum linear switches is not available. However, it can be inferred that the Kang White switch, with its self-lubricating material, may offer a smoother and softer keystroke experience compared to the Cold Plum switch, which features a fully nylon construction. The smoothness of the Kang White switch may appeal to users looking for a more fluid and consistent typing feel, while the Cold Plum switch's unique construction may provide a tactile and responsive typing experience.
In conclusion, the KTT Kang White linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch offer distinctive sound profiles and potentially different typing feels. Users who prefer a low-pitched and neutral sound with smooth keystrokes may lean towards the Kang White switch, while those seeking a thocky sound and tactile typing experience may prefer the Cold Plum switch. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the KTT Kang White linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, you should consider the bottom out force of each switch. The Kang White, with a bottom out force of 58 grams, is better suited for those who prefer a medium actuation force. On the other hand, the Cold Plum, with a bottom out force of 70 grams, is ideal for those who prefer a medium-heavy actuation force. Additionally, the Kang White is known for its smoothness and dazzling typing sound, while the Cold Plum offers a unique thocky sound profile and smooth keystrokes. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your preference for actuation force and typing experience.
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