Gateron Mini i vs. Outemu Cold Plum
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mini i and the Outemu Cold Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Mini i and the Outemu Cold Plum offer distinct features that cater to different preferences. The Gateron Mini i is a tactile switch known for its gentle tactility and fairly muted sound profile, making it ideal for office settings where quiet professionalism is key. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum is a linear switch that delivers a unique typing experience with a thocky sound profile and smooth keystrokes, perfect for enthusiasts seeking a satisfying 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
40g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Mini i and the Outemu Cold Plum feature nylon as the primary material for their top and bottom switch housings. This shared material results in a similar typing experience for both switches, as nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. The absorption of sound by the nylon material creates a duller and rounder sound when typing, enhancing the overall auditory experience for users of both switches.
While both the Mini i and Cold Plum switches share the same nylon material for their housing, they may differ in terms of the design and construction of the housings. The specific shape and structure of the housings can impact the overall sound and feel of the switches when typing. The housing design may influence factors such as the bottom-out sound and feel, as well as the sound when releasing a key. These differences in housing design can result in slight variations in the typing experience between the two switches, despite the common material used for their housings.
Ultimately, the similarities in housing material between the Gateron Mini i and Outemu Cold Plum switches suggest that users can expect a comparable typing experience from both switches. The use of nylon for both the top and bottom housings enhances the sound quality of the switches, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile that is characteristic of switches utilizing nylon material. While there may be differences in the housing design between the two switches, the shared material ensures that users will achieve similar results in terms of sound and feel when typing on either the Gateron Mini i or the Outemu Cold Plum switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, there is a clear distinction in weight. The Mini i has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. On the other hand, the Cold Plum has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push. In terms of weight preference, the Mini i would be ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming, while the Cold Plum would cater to individuals seeking a more robust typing experience. Overall, the weight variances between the two switches cater to different preferences, with the Mini i being lighter and the Cold Plum being heavier.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, slightly longer than the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch with a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers looking for faster response times. If you prioritize quick key presses, the Gateron Mini i may be the better choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a deeper feeling when typing, the Outemu Cold Plum might be more suitable. Ultimately, the difference in travel distance between the two switches is minimal, so you can expect similar results from both in terms of key feel and performance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00, 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch is known for its thocky sound profile, providing a distinct typing experience that may appeal to enthusiasts seeking a unique auditory feedback. When comparing the two, the Mini i is more subdued in its sound, catering to a quiet and professional office setting, while the Cold Plum switch offers a more pronounced and satisfying sound for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch is described as bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, subtle, and stepped. These qualities combine to provide a comfortable and responsive typing experience that is gentle on the fingers and reduces fatigue during long typing sessions. In contrast, the Outemu Cold Plum switch's feel characteristics are unknown. However, based on its reputation for smooth keystrokes and satisfying feedback, it likely offers a smooth and enjoyable typing feel that may appeal to users seeking a seamless typing experience.
Overall, both the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. While the Mini i provides a neutral sound profile and a comfortable typing experience ideal for office settings, the Cold Plum switch delivers a unique thocky sound and a smooth typing feel that may interest enthusiasts. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, but users can expect similar levels of quality and performance from both options.
Conclusion
All in all, when deciding between the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you value a light and bouncy typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the Gateron Mini i switch may be the right choice for you, especially for office settings where quiet professionalism is key. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-heavy keystroke with a thocky sound profile and are seeking a unique typing feel, the Outemu Cold Plum switch could be more suited to your enthusiast needs. Ultimately, your decision should be based on how you prioritize typing feel, sound, and the overall typing experience that best matches your preferences.
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