Gateron Lunar Probe vs. Outemu Cold Plum
An in-depth look at the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Outemu Cold Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Outemu Cold Plum mechanical keyboard switches, both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Lunar Probe is praised for its stable and consistent keypresses due to Gateron's dual rail mechanism, as well as its smooth linear sensation and subtle sound signature. On the other hand, the Cold Plum stands out for its thocky sound profile and fully nylon construction, providing a distinct and enjoyable typing experience for enthusiasts. While the Lunar Probe excels in stability and smoothness, the Cold Plum shines in sound and tactile feedback. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
1.80 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Double-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Outemu Cold Plum, the main difference lies in the materials used for the top housing. The Lunar Probe features a polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the Cold Plum has a nylon top housing, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This contrast in sound profiles can lead to a different typing experience for users, with the Lunar Probe delivering a more clear and resonant sound, while the Cold Plum provides a duller and rounder sound.
Despite the difference in top housing materials, both switches share a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, making typing on switches that use this material a satisfying experience. The nylon bottom housing of both the Lunar Probe and Cold Plum contributes to the overall sound profile of the switches, enhancing the typing experience with a more absorbent and rounder sound. This similarity in bottom housing material ensures that users can expect comparable results in terms of sound quality and typing feel when using either switch.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches such as the Gateron Lunar Probe and the Outemu Cold Plum plays a significant role in determining the sound profile and typing experience. While the Lunar Probe's polycarbonate top housing offers a clear and resonant sound, the Cold Plum's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound. On the other hand, both switches feature a nylon bottom housing, which enhances the typing experience with a more absorbent and rounder sound. Ultimately, the combination of different housing materials in each switch results in a distinct typing feel and sound profile, catering to the preferences of users who may prefer a crisper or a fuller sound while typing.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, it is evident that the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Lunar Probe boasts a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the Cold Plum features a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for users who prefer a stronger push feel. Overall, the Lunar Probe is lighter in terms of force required, while the Cold Plum falls on the medium-heavy side, catering to different preferences based on individual typing styles. Regardless of the differences in force, both switches offer a smooth typing experience that is sure to satisfy users looking for high-quality linear switches.
Travel distance
The Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6mm, while the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3mm. Both switches fall within the category of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for quicker response times. The Lunar Probe offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a slightly deeper keypress feeling compared to the Cold Plum. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with the Lunar Probe offering a slightly longer travel distance for those who prefer a bit more depth, while the Cold Plum is ideal for those seeking a shorter and quicker keypress experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Lunar Probe has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lunar Probe for $4.19.
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
When comparing the subjective qualities of the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, it is important to note that both switches offer a smooth keystroke experience. The Lunar Probe switch is known for its stable and consistent keypresses thanks to Gateron's dual rail mechanism, while also providing a subtle sound signature. On the other hand, the Cold Plum switch by Outemu offers a unique typing experience with its thocky sound profile and fully nylon construction, giving enthusiasts a satisfying auditory experience.
While the sound profiles of these switches may vary depending on factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, both the Lunar Probe and Cold Plum switches offer a smooth and enjoyable typing feel. The precise feel of each switch may differ based on personal preference, with some users preferring the stable and consistent keypresses of the Lunar Probe, while others may enjoy the unique sound profile of the Cold Plum switch.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Lunar Probe and Outemu Cold Plum switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Whether you prefer a smooth and subtle sound profile or a thocky and satisfying typing experience, both switches provide a high-quality typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Lunar Probe and Cold Plum switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, ensuring that users will achieve similar levels of satisfaction regardless of their selection.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Lunar Probe linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, consider the bottom out force and typing experience you prefer. If you prefer a light switch with stable and consistent keypresses, smooth linear sensation, and a subtle sound signature, opt for the Gateron Lunar Probe. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a thocky sound profile, smooth keystroke, and satisfying sound, go for the Outemu Cold Plum. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the typing feel and sound you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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