Cherry MX Silent Red vs. Outemu Cold Plum
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Outemu Cold Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Outemu Cold Plum are two popular options to consider. The MX Silent Red is a linear switch that offers a silent typing experience while still maintaining the slightly heavier feel of the MX Red. On the other hand, the Cold Plum switch is also a linear switch but delivers a distinct thocky sound profile and smooth keystrokes due to its fully nylon construction. While the MX Silent Red is ideal for noise-sensitive environments with its muted and low-pitched sound profile, the Cold Plum switch caters to enthusiasts looking for a unique and 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
45g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Outemu Cold Plum switches, both use nylon for their top and bottom housings. This means that typing on switches using either of these materials will result in a similar deep and full sound profile due to nylon's ability to absorb sound and create a duller, rounder sound. The nylon material in both switches also contributes to a softer touch when pressing down on a key, making typing on these switches a quieter and more comfortable experience.
While both the Cherry MX Silent Red and Outemu Cold Plum switches share the same nylon housing material for both the top and bottom, the actual design and construction of the switches may vary. This can affect the overall feel and sound signature of each switch, despite both using nylon. Factors such as the shape of the housing, the thickness of the material, and any additional features added to the switches can all influence the typing experience. However, the fundamental properties of nylon – its softness and sound absorption capabilities – will be consistent across both switches.
In terms of sound and feel, the housing material of a switch plays a significant role in the overall typing experience. While both the Cherry MX Silent Red and Outemu Cold Plum switches utilize nylon for their housings, the slight variations in design and construction may result in subtle differences in sound and feel. However, the underlying qualities of nylon – its ability to absorb sound and create a softer touch – will be present in both switches, ensuring a quiet and comfortable typing experience for users of either switch.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, it is evident that the Cold Plum has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the 45 grams of the MX Silent Red. Additionally, the Cold Plum also has a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams, whereas the bottom out force of the MX Silent Red is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the MX Silent Red due to its lower actuation force, while those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Cold Plum with its heavier forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing and gaming, as the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in the overall typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch is 3.7mm, while the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3mm. Both switches offer a shorter travel distance than the traditional 4.0mm, making them popular choices for gamers looking for faster response times. The Cherry MX Silent Red may provide a bit more depth in keypresses compared to the Cold Plum, which might feel more abrupt due to its shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and keypress feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
The Outemu Cold Plum comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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 MX Silent Red switch offers a muted, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile, providing a quieter typing experience compared to traditional mechanical switches. On the other hand, the Cold Plum switch is known for its thocky sound and smooth keystroke, making it ideal for those who enjoy a distinct and satisfying typing feel. When it comes to feel, the MX Silent Red is noted for its textured sensation, which adds a unique tactile feedback to each key press. Unfortunately, information on the feel of the Cold Plum switch is not available.
Overall, if you're looking for a quieter typing experience with a slightly textured feel, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch would be the better option. However, if you prefer a thocky sound and smooth keystrokes without detailed information on tactile feel, the Outemu Cold Plum switch may be a suitable alternative. Both switches offer their own unique qualities, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking to achieve. Ultimately, with the given information, you can expect to get similar results in terms of quiet operation from the Cherry MX Silent Red switch and the thocky sound from the Outemu Cold Plum switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, you should consider the level of noise sensitivity in your environment and your preference for key feel. If you value a quieter typing experience and enjoy a slightly heftier feel, the MX Silent Red is the way to go. On the other hand, if you appreciate a unique thocky sound profile and a smooth keystroke, the Cold Plum may be more up your alley. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for.
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