Cherry MX Black vs. Outemu Cold Plum
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Black and the Outemu Cold Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Cherry MX Black and the Outemu Cold Plum mechanical keyboard switches, both of which are linear switches, there are notable differences in their characteristics and features. The MX Black from Cherry is renowned for its smooth and textured typing experience, with a deep sound profile that many users find satisfying. On the other hand, the Cold Plum by Outemu offers a unique thocky sound profile and smooth keystrokes due to its nylon construction. While the MX Black is categorized as low-pitched, textured, and stiff, the Cold Plum switch lacks specific categorizations. Choosing between these two switches ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style. 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
60g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
No
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials for both the Cherry MX Black and the Outemu Cold Plum switches are made of nylon, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches using this material. The nylon top housing of both switches contributes significantly to the overall typing experience by influencing the sound produced when pressing and releasing keys, adding to the tactile feedback and acoustics of the switches.
While both the MX Black and Cold Plum switches feature nylon top and bottom housings, the specific design and construction of these components may vary slightly. The bottom housing of a switch typically plays a more prominent role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is fully pressed down, while the top housing has more influence over the sound produced when a key is released. This distinction can impact the overall typing experience for users, as the nuances in sound and feedback can vary depending on the balance between the top and bottom housing materials of a switch.
In terms of housing materials, the Cherry MX Black and Outemu Cold Plum switches offer similar results due to their use of nylon for both the top and bottom housings. The softer nature of nylon allows for a more muted and rounded sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience for users who prefer a deeper and fuller sound from their switches. While there may be subtle differences in the design and construction of the housings between these two switches, the shared use of nylon ensures a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feedback.
Weight
The Cherry MX Black linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch both have an actuation force of 60 grams, making them equally light in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Cherry MX Black switch is heavier at 80 grams compared to the Outemu Cold Plum switch at 70 grams. This means that the Cherry MX Black switch will provide a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Outemu Cold Plum switch offers a slightly lighter typing experience. For those who prefer a lighter typing feel, the Outemu Cold Plum switch would be the better choice, especially for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who prefer a heavier, more resistant keypress may find the Cherry MX Black switch to be more suitable for their needs. Both switches offer similar actuation forces, so users can expect similar results in terms of responsiveness and typing speed.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making the MX Black the longer option. The MX Black's 4.0mm travel distance offers a more traditional key press feel, while the Cold Plum's 3.3mm travel distance is on the shallower side. Gamers may prefer the Cold Plum switch for its shorter travel distance, providing faster response times, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the MX Black switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, both switches offer a different typing experience, so it ultimately depends on personal preference for a shorter or longer travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00, 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
When comparing the sound of the Cherry MX Black and the Outemu Cold Plum switches, it is important to note that the MX Black offers a low-pitched sound profile that is typically more bass-heavy and mellow in tone. On the other hand, the Cold Plum switches are known for their thocky sound profile with a unique typing experience. The choice between the two switches will ultimately depend on personal preference and the overall setup of your keyboard.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Cherry MX Black switches are known for their textured feel, which may provide a different typing experience compared to smoother switches. Additionally, the MX Black switches are considered to be on the stiffer side, requiring a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom out. Meanwhile, the feel of the Outemu Cold Plum switches is not specifically described. It is worth noting that the feel of a switch is subjective and can vary depending on individual preferences.
In conclusion, the Cherry MX Black linear switches and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switches offer different sound profiles and potentially different typing experiences. While the MX Black switches are known for their smoothness and deep sound profile, the Cold Plum switches are praised for their thocky sound and satisfying keystroke. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience. It is recommended to try out both switches if possible to determine which one suits your needs and typing style best.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Cherry MX Black and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switches, you should consider your preference for bottom-out force and sound profile. If you prefer a heavier bottom-out force for a more stable typing experience, the MX Black with its 80-gram force may be the better choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter bottom-out force and enjoy the thocky sound profile of the Cold Plum switches, then the 70-gram Cold Plum switches may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, both switches offer unique typing experiences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of feel and sound.
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