Gateron Luciola vs. Outemu Cold Plum
An in-depth look at the Gateron Luciola and the Outemu Cold Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Luciola and the Outemu Cold Plum, both of which belong to the linear switch category. The Gateron Luciola stands out with its eye-catching glow-in-the-dark feature, medium heft, smooth and bouncy typing feel, and distinctive "can of spray paint being shaken" sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum offers a unique typing experience with a thocky sound profile and fully nylon construction, providing a smooth keystroke and satisfying sound. While the Luciola is praised for its snappy, clacky, and high-pitched characteristics, the Cold Plum is known for its quiet and pleasant 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
55g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
22mm double-staged long spring; black-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron Luciola and Outemu Cold Plum switches both have unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Luciola uses a proprietary INK blend for both top and bottom housings, resulting in a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound that is described as clacky. In contrast, the Cold Plum switches have nylon top and bottom housings that create a deeper and fuller sound due to the softer plastic absorbing more sound. While both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, the Luciola's sound profile is more focused on a sharp, clacky sound, while the Cold Plum's sound is more rounded and dull.
The differences in housing materials between the Gateron Luciola and Outemu Cold Plum switches also extend to the feel of typing on them. The Luciola's INK blend bottom housing contributes to a pointed and high-pitched sound when bottoming out keys, while the Cold Plum's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. This means that typing on the Luciola may feel sharper and more precise, while typing on the Cold Plum may feel softer and more cushioned. Additionally, the impact of the top housing on the sound when releasing a key is more pronounced in the Luciola due to its unique blend, compared to the Cold Plum's nylon top housing.
Ultimately, while the Gateron Luciola and Outemu Cold Plum switches have different housing materials that result in varying sound profiles and typing experiences, both switches offer a high-quality feel and satisfying sound. The differences in sound between the two switches can be attributed to the materials used in their housing, with the Luciola having a sharper, more pointed sound compared to the Cold Plum's deeper and fuller sound. However, both switches provide a premium typing experience that is sure to please enthusiasts looking for a unique and enjoyable switch option.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in the typing experience. The Luciola has a lighter actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Cold Plum has a slightly heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams. This means that the Cold Plum switch requires a bit more force to initially actuate and fully press down compared to the Luciola. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, providing a balance between ease of typing and tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether one prefers a lighter or slightly heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron Luciola linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Cold Plum has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Luciola. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular among gamers for their faster response times. Those who prefer a more responsive feel may lean towards the Cold Plum, while others who enjoy a bit more depth in their key presses may prefer the Luciola. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for travel distance and the typing experience desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Luciola has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Luciola for $6.50.
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 Luciola linear switch is known for its clacky and chirpy sound profile. When pressed, these switches produce a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp and bright. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch offers a thocky sound profile, which is unique and satisfying to enthusiasts. While the specific sound qualities of the Cold Plum switch are unknown, it is clear that the Luciola switch provides a more percussive and distinct auditory experience.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Luciola linear switch is known for its snappy and buttery typing feel. These switches are super responsive and provide a smooth and bouncy typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch offers a fully nylon construction that may influence the typing feel to be different from the Luciola switch. While the specific feel of the Cold Plum switch is unknown, it is evident that the Luciola switch offers a polished and seamless typing sensation.
Overall, while the specific sound and feel qualities of the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch are undefined, based on the information provided, it can be inferred that both switches offer unique and enjoyable typing experiences. Whether you choose the Gateron Luciola for its clacky sound and snappy feel, or the Outemu Cold Plum for its thocky sound and potentially distinct typing feel, both switches are likely to provide a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience. Additionally, both switches have their own distinct features, allowing users to tailor their keyboard setup to their preferences.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering which switch to choose between the Gateron Luciola linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, you should opt for the Luciola if you prioritize a medium bottom out force, eye-catching design, a smooth and bouncy typing feel, and a clacky or chirpy sound profile. On the other hand, the Cold Plum may be the better choice if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force, a unique thocky sound profile, and a fully nylon construction. Ultimately, your decision will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and aesthetic design. Consider these factors carefully when selecting the switch that best suits your needs and preferences.
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