TKC Kiwi vs. Outemu Cold Plum

Overview

The TKC Kiwi is a tactile switch designed to provide a satisfying typing experience with a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, resulting in a immersive sound profile and a smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum is a linear switch offering a unique thocky sound profile and a smooth keystroke due to its fully nylon construction. While the Kiwi is factory lubed for effortless typing right out of the box, the Cold Plum is sought after by enthusiasts for its distinct and enjoyable typing feel. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

TKC Kiwi Tactile

Outemu Cold Plum Linear

$8.00 per 10

$3.10 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the TKC Kiwi and the Outemu Cold Plum differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profile. The Kiwi utilizes UHWMPE for both its top and bottom housing, providing a bright and resonant sound signature when typing. In contrast, the Cold Plum features nylon housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. While both materials offer unique sound characteristics, the UHWMPE of the Kiwi may provide a more vibrant and lively typing experience compared to the more mellow sound of nylon in the Cold Plum.

Despite the differences in housing materials between the TKC Kiwi and the Outemu Cold Plum, both switches aim to enhance the typing experience with their distinct sound profiles. The UHWMPE top and bottom housing of the Kiwi creates resonant clacks and a bright sound signature, adding a lively feel to each keystroke. On the other hand, the nylon housing of the Cold Plum produces a deeper and fuller sound, offering a more soothing typing experience. While their sound profiles may vary, both switches prioritize sound quality and tactile feedback to cater to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.

In terms of construction, the housing materials of the TKC Kiwi and the Outemu Cold Plum play a crucial role in determining the overall sound and feel of each switch. The split housing design of the switches allows for distinct characteristics from the top and bottom housing materials to be experienced during typing. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key. As a result, users can expect a dynamic typing experience with the TKC Kiwi's UHWMPE housing providing a bright and resonant sound, contrasting with the deeper and fuller sound profile produced by the Cold Plum's nylon housing.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, we see that the Kiwi has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Cold Plum's 60 grams. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Kiwi at 67 grams and the Cold Plum at 70 grams, both falling under the medium-heavy category. This means that while the Cold Plum requires more force to initiate a keystroke, the bottom out force for both switches is quite similar, providing a consistent typing experience in terms of pressure needed when fully pressed. Ultimately, the choice between these switches would depend on individual preference - those who prefer a lighter actuation force may lean towards the Kiwi for longer typing sessions, while those who prefer a stronger push may opt for the Cold Plum for a more substantial typing experience.

Travel distance

In comparing the travel distance of the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, it is clear that the Kiwi has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the 3.3 mm travel distance of the Cold Plum. The Kiwi provides a more traditional travel distance, while the Cold Plum offers a slightly shallower feel. Gamers may prefer the Cold Plum for its shorter travel distance, leading to faster response times. However, those who prefer a deeper key press may find the Kiwi to be more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for a variety of typing environments. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch does not have a specific sound description available, but it is known for its thocky sound profile, which may offer a unique auditory experience. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.

When it comes to feel, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch is described as having a stepped, accented, and polished feel. This means that the switch has two stages of tactile feedback, provides a medium amount of tactility without being overwhelming, and offers a smooth and refined typing experience. Conversely, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch does not have a specific feel description provided, but it is known for its smooth keystroke and satisfying sound profile, which may indicate a pleasant typing experience without specific tactile feedback.

Overall, both the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch offer unique qualities that can enhance the typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the Kiwi switch provides a low-pitched sound profile and a stepped, accented, and polished feel, the Cold Plum switch may offer a thocky sound profile and a smooth keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. If you prefer a tactile switch with a more pronounced tactile feel, the Kiwi may be the better option, while if you prefer a linear switch with a smoother keystroke, the Cold Plum may be the more suitable choice.

Conclusion

To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TKC Kiwi tactile switch or the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, it ultimately depends on your preferences and typing style. If you prefer a tactile switch with a medium to medium-strong bump that provides a snappy sound profile and a smooth typing experience, then the Kiwi is the way to go. On the other hand, if you are looking for a unique typing experience with a thocky sound profile and fully nylon construction, then the Cold Plum is a great choice. Both switches have a medium-heavy bottom out force, so it really comes down to whether you prefer the tactile sensation of the Kiwi or the distinct feel of the Cold Plum. Consider your sound and feel preferences when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, the choice is yours based on what typing experience you are seeking.

Mentioned in this article

TKC Kiwi Tactile

$8.00 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Cold Plum Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more