Cherry MX Brown vs. Kailh Plum
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Brown and the Kailh Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, one popular option is the Cherry MX Brown, known for its subtlety. These switches provide a light typing experience with gentle tactility and subdued audio feedback. They are categorized as textured, bassy, and low-pitched. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum offers a unique experience with its hefty feel and lack of a pronounced tactile bump. Unlike many other tactile switches, the Plum combines weightiness with a more neutral and enjoyable sound profile. While these general pointers may help guide your decision, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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 Cherry MX Brown and the Kailh Plum differ in their top housing materials. The MX Brown utilizes a nylon top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Plum employs a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the polycarbonate housing is transparent, making it ideal for implementing RGB lighting effects.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing, both the MX Brown and the Plum use nylon. This material in the bottom housing yields a similar effect for both switches. Typing on switches that incorporate nylon elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. As a result, the bottom housing contributes to creating a duller and rounder sound when the switch is pressed.
It is important to note that if a switch's top and bottom housings are different, each housing material will bring its distinct qualities to the switch. When pressing down on a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing, which impact the bottom-out sound and feel, will be more pronounced. Conversely, the top housing will affect the sound when the key is released. Therefore, although the top and bottom housings of the Cherry MX Brown and the Kailh Plum differ, they both deliver comparable results in terms of sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, it is clear that they differ in weight. The MX Brown has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes quickly and with less effort. In contrast, the Plum's actuation force is unavailable, which means it is difficult to determine how it compares to the MX Brown in this aspect. However, the bottom out force of the Plum is heavier at 70 grams, providing a more substantial and satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel.
Considering the importance of weight, individuals who prioritize a lighter typing experience may favor the MX Brown switch as it allows for longer periods of comfortable typing, suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, those seeking a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Plum switch with its heavier bottom out force. Although the actuation force of the Plum is unknown, one can assume that it might provide similar results to the MX Brown if the actuation force is also around the medium-light range. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and desired typing or gaming experience.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Kailh Plum tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The MX Brown's travel distance is considered more traditional and offers a deeper key press experience, while the Plum's shorter travel distance is valued by gamers seeking faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference. If you prefer a more responsive feel, the Plum switch would be the better option. However, if you prefer a deeper key press and a more substantial feel, the MX Brown switch would be the ideal choice.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Cherry MX Brown comes in at $4.00, whereas the Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25.
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
The Cherry MX Brown switches are known for their subtle qualities. They offer a light typing experience with a gentle tactile bump and subdued audio feedback. The sound profile of the MX Browns can be characterized as bassy, with a lower frequency range and richness resembling bass tones. The feel of the MX Browns is described as textured, with noticeable friction when pressed. Some users prefer this subtle texture, while others prefer a smoother typing experience.
On the other hand, the Kailh Plum switches have a unique feel. Despite their heaviness, they do not feature a pronounced tactile bump like many other tactile switches. The sound profile of the Plums is neutral, providing an enjoyable typing experience without any particular emphasis on bass or higher frequencies. The feel of the Plums is described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Additionally, these switches can also be categorized as stepped, meaning they have a mild pre-travel and/or post-travel sensation.
In conclusion, the Cherry MX Brown and Kailh Plum switches offer different subjective qualities. The MX Browns provide a subtler and lighter typing experience with a noticeable tactile bump and bassy sound profile. The Plums, on the other hand, have a unique heaviness without a pronounced tactile bump and a neutral sound profile. Both switches offer enjoyable typing experiences, but users should consider their preference for texture and the level of tactile feedback they desire. It is important to note that the sound and feel of the switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a lighter typing experience and subtle tactility, then the Cherry MX Brown switch would be your best choice. These switches offer a comfortable typing experience with a gentle tactile bump and subdued audio feedback. If you prefer a switch with a heavier bottom out force and a unique tactile feel, then the Kailh Plum switch is the way to go. The Plum switches provide a weightier typing experience without a pronounced tactile bump, making them stand out from other tactile switches. In terms of sound, the MX Brown switch offers a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, while the Plum switch has a neutral and enjoyable sound. As for the feel, the MX Brown switch can have a textured or scratchy sensation, while the Plum switch offers a mild and approachable typing experience, with the option of a stepped feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for weight, tactility, sound, and feel. Consider your typing style and desired experience to make an informed decision.
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