Cherry MX Brown vs. Outemu Cold Plum
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Brown and the Outemu Cold Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry MX Brown and the Outemu Cold Plum offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Cherry MX Brown switch is known for its subtle tactility and quiet typing experience, making it a great choice for those looking for a light and gentle key press. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum switch stands out for its thocky sound profile and smooth keystroke, providing enthusiasts with a satisfying typing feel. While the MX Brown is categorized as 'Textured', 'Bassy', 'Low-pitched', the Cold Plum's characteristics are not clearly specified. Each switch has its own strengths and appeal, but ultimately, the choice between them 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
45g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Brown and the Outemu Cold Plum switches, it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for both their top and bottom housings. This similarity in material choice results in a similar typing experience for both switches, as nylon's softness and sound-absorbing properties contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The duller and rounder sound produced by nylon creates a satisfying typing experience for users of both switches, with a more subdued sound compared to switches made with harder plastics.
While the housing materials for the Cherry MX Brown and Outemu Cold Plum switches are the same, with both utilizing nylon for their top and bottom housings, the impact of these materials is distributed differently within the switches. The bottom housing plays a more significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when a key is released. This distribution of qualities between the top and bottom housings may result in subtle differences in overall typing experience between the two switches, despite their shared material choice.
Overall, the choice of nylon as the housing material for both the Cherry MX Brown and Outemu Cold Plum switches contributes to a similar typing experience characterized by a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softness of nylon and its sound-absorbing properties create a pleasant typing experience with a more subdued sound than switches made with harder plastics. While the distribution of qualities between the top and bottom housings may result in minor differences in typing feel, the overall impact of the nylon housing material is consistent between the two switches, providing users with a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, it is evident that the MX Brown is lighter overall. The MX Brown has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, while the Cold Plum has a higher actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams. The MX Brown provides a medium-light feel, making it ideal for users who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods. On the other hand, the Cold Plum offers a medium-heavy feel, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial push when typing. Both switches provide tactile feedback, but the Cold Plum requires a slightly heavier touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for typing force and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Cold Plum switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the MX Brown switch. The slightly shorter travel distance of the Cold Plum switch may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times. On the other hand, the MX Brown switch with its slightly longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and tactile experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Cherry MX Brown 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 it comes to sound, the Cherry MX Brown switches are best known for their bassy and low-pitched characteristics, providing a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum switches offer a thocky sound profile, which is unique and distinct, making them a great choice for users who enjoy a satisfying typing experience. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, Cherry MX Brown switches are often described as textured, providing a tactile bump with a subtle feedback during typing. This texture can add a sense of feedback and response that some users prefer. On the contrary, the Outemu Cold Plum switches do not have a specific description available, but linear switches tend to offer a smooth keystroke without any tactile feedback.
Overall, choosing between Cherry MX Brown and Outemu Cold Plum switches comes down to personal preference in sound and feel. While the MX Browns offer a more subtle and lighter typing experience with gentle tactility and subdued sound, the Cold Plum switches provide a unique thocky sound profile with a smooth keystroke. Both switches have their own strengths and can provide a pleasant typing experience depending on the user's preferences. Ultimately, trying out both switches on different keyboards would be the best way to determine which one suits your preferences and typing style the best.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between Cherry MX Brown tactile switches and Outemu Cold Plum linear switches, consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a subtle tactile feedback and light typing experience, the Cherry MX Browns are a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a unique thocky sound profile and a smooth keystroke, the Outemu Cold Plum switches would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what features are most important to you in your mechanical keyboard switches.
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