KTT Mint vs. Outemu Cold Plum
An in-depth look at the KTT Mint and the Outemu Cold Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the KTT Mint linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Mint is loved for its smooth linear feel and poppy thockiness, providing a light and fleeting typing experience. On the other hand, the Cold Plum stands out with its thocky sound profile and fully nylon construction, offering enthusiasts a distinct and enjoyable typing feel. Each switch has its own set of characteristics that may appeal to different users based on their typing preferences. 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
53g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Mint and the Outemu Cold Plum switches have distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences in sound profiles. The Mint's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, thanks to its stiffness that leads to a clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the Cold Plum's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. While both materials have their unique qualities, the polycarbonate top housing of the Mint offers a more vibrant and impactful sound compared to the softer nylon top housing of the Cold Plum.
In terms of bottom housing, both switches feature nylon material which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon bottom housing of the Mint and the Cold Plum absorbs sound effectively, leading to a rounder sound when typing on these switches. The use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures that the typing experience is consistent with a deeper and softer sound, regardless of the switch being used. Although the top and bottom housings differ in material for these switches, both provide a similar sound profile with a focus on depth and fullness, making them suitable choices for those seeking a more subdued typing experience.
Overall, the contrasting housing materials of the KTT Mint and the Outemu Cold Plum switches offer unique sound profiles to cater to different preferences. The polycarbonate top housing of the Mint produces a sharper, crisper sound, while the nylon top housing of the Cold Plum creates a deeper and fuller sound. Similarly, both switches share nylon bottom housing, resulting in a consistent, round sound profile that absorbs sound effectively. Whether you prefer a brighter, more resonant sound or a deeper, fuller sound, both switches offer options to enhance your typing experience based on your sound preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mint linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, it is evident that the Mint has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it medium-light. On the other hand, the Cold Plum features a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. This means that the Mint would provide a lighter typing experience, ideal for prolonged typing or gaming sessions, while the Cold Plum offers a more substantial push feel. Both switches provide distinct options for users who prefer either a lighter or heavier typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Mint linear switch is 4 mm, while the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Mint has a slightly longer travel distance which may provide a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a deeper key press. On the other hand, the Cold Plum offers a slightly shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers seeking quicker response times. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Mint being the longer option and the Cold Plum being the shorter option. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for typing feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Mint comes in at $2.91, 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
When comparing the sound of the KTT Mint linear switch to the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, the Mint offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, while the Cold Plum's sound description is unknown. The Mint's low-pitched profile gives it a bass-heavy and mellow tone, perfect for those who prefer a more subtle sound during typing sessions. On the other hand, the Cold Plum's sound profile remains a mystery, leaving potential users unsure of what to expect in terms of auditory feedback.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Mint is described as mild and polished, providing a gentle typing experience with smooth and refined key travel. These qualities make it an approachable switch for most users, offering a comfortable and sleek typing feel. Unfortunately, the feel of the Cold Plum switch is not specified, leaving users without information on its tactile characteristics.
Overall, while the Mint linear switch offers a satisfyingly smooth typing experience with a poppy thockiness and light feel, the Outemu Cold Plum switch remains a mystery in terms of sound and feel. If you enjoy a low-pitched sound profile and a polished typing experience, the Mint may be the better choice for you. However, without more information on the Cold Plum switch, it's hard to make a direct comparison. To potentially achieve similar results, it may be worth trying out both switches to see which one aligns with your preferences in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between KTT Mint linear switches and Outemu Cold Plum linear switches, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a light and smooth typing feel with a poppy thocky sound, the Mint switches with their medium-light bottom out force of 53 grams may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a thocky sound profile with a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams and a fully nylon construction, the Cold Plum switches may be more suitable for your typing preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to determine what typing experience you value most before making your decision.
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