Gateron Melodic vs. Outemu Cold Plum
An in-depth look at the Gateron Melodic and the Outemu Cold Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Gateron Melodic, a clicky switch, and the Outemu Cold Plum, a linear switch. The Gateron Melodic is known for reinvigorating the clicky switch category with its smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems, providing users with a classic clicky sound and tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum offers a unique typing experience with its thocky sound profile and fully nylon construction, making it a great choice for enthusiasts seeking a distinct and enjoyable typing feel. While the Melodic is described as 'Buttery', 'Resonant', 'Invigorating', and 'Crunchy', the Cold Plum's characteristics are yet to be categorized. 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
N/A
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Melodic and the Outemu Cold Plum, it is clear that they both utilize nylon for their bottom housing. Typing on switches that use nylon elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, due to the material's softer plastic and sound-absorbing properties. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. The bottom housing's impact on the bottom-out sound and feel will be more prominent in both switches, providing users with a satisfying typing experience.
However, the top housing material differs between the two switches. The Melodic features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate leads to a more clear and resonant sound profile, making it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. In contrast, the Cold Plum boasts a nylon top housing, which also results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer plastic of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a sound that is duller and rounder.
While the bottom housing material is the same for both the Gateron Melodic and the Outemu Cold Plum, the top housing material offers a noticeable difference in the sound profile of each switch. The Melodic's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound, ideal for those looking for a more resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the Cold Plum's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, catering to those who prefer a rounder sound profile. Whether one prefers the sharper tones of polycarbonate or the fuller sound of nylon, both switches offer unique sound characteristics based on their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, it is clear that they offer different experiences. The Melodic switch has an actuation force of None grams, making it a lighter option, while its bottom out force is 60 grams, which is considered medium. In contrast, the Cold Plum switch has an actuation force of 60 grams, making it slightly heavier, and a bottom out force of 70 grams, which is medium-heavy. The Melodic switch offers a more effortless typing experience due to its lighter actuation force, ideal for long periods of typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Cold Plum switch provides a more substantial typing feel with a heavier actuation force, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, we can see that the Melodic has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Cold Plum has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Cold Plum has the shorter travel distance compared to the Melodic. The Melodic, with its 4 mm travel distance, falls into the more traditional range, while the Cold Plum's 3.3 mm is on the shallower side. Gamers, who often prefer faster response times, may lean towards the Cold Plum for its shorter travel distance. However, those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may find the Melodic more appealing. Ultimately, the preference between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and the typing experience it provides.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Melodic has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Melodic for $6.00.
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 it comes to sound, Gateron's Melodic clicky switch offers a resonant and crunchy typing experience, providing users with a higher-pitched sound profile and a satisfyingly crisp auditory feedback reminiscent of stepping on autumn leaves. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch is not available, but it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Melodic switch is described as buttery and invigorating, offering a smooth and fluid typing experience with pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a reactive feel that enhances the overall typing sensation. As for the Outemu Cold Plum switch, details on its tactile feel are not provided, but it is likely to offer a seamless and satisfying typing experience due to its smooth keystroke and nylon construction.
Overall, both the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you are seeking a clicky switch with a resonant sound and buttery feel, the Gateron Melodic would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a thocky sound profile and smooth keystrokes, the Outemu Cold Plum switch may be more suitable for your typing needs. Remember to consider all factors such as sound, feel, and construction materials when selecting the right mechanical keyboard switch for your setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a medium bottom out force, the Gateron Melodic would be a great choice with its 60-gram force. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force, the Outemu Cold Plum with 70 grams would be more suitable for you. Additionally, if you are seeking a more robust and resonant sound with a buttery and invigorating feel, the Gateron Melodic would be the way to go. However, if you are looking for a unique thocky sound profile and a smooth keystroke experience, the Outemu Cold Plum would be the better option for you. Ultimately, it boils down to your personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and bottom out force when choosing between these two switches.
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