Cherry Nixie vs. Outemu Cold Plum
An in-depth look at the Cherry Nixie and the Outemu Cold Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry Nixie and Outemu Cold Plum stand out as notable choices for enthusiasts. The Cherry Nixie is revered for its substantial heft and textured typing experience, incorporating updated materials and springs for a blend of tradition and modern innovation. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum offers a unique typing experience with its thocky sound profile and fully nylon construction, providing a smooth keystroke and satisfying sound. While the Cherry Nixie is known for its low-pitched feel, the Outemu Cold Plum offers a distinct and enjoyable 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
63.5g
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
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
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Cherry Nixie and the Outemu Cold Plum both feature nylon top and bottom housing materials, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The relatively softer nature of nylon compared to harder plastics allows for sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound overall. This common material choice ensures that users of both switches can enjoy a tactile typing experience with a satisfying sound feedback.
However, while both switches share the same nylon housing material, the specific design and construction of each switch may lead to slight differences in sound and feel. The way the top and bottom housing materials interact with the overall switch mechanism can impact the typing experience. For example, the bottom housing of a switch may have more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing could affect the sound when releasing a key. These nuances in design can lead to variations in typing feedback between the Cherry Nixie and the Outemu Cold Plum.
Overall, due to their shared use of nylon housing materials, users can expect similar results in terms of sound profile and feel when typing on both the Cherry Nixie and the Outemu Cold Plum switches. The deep and full sound produced by the nylon material creates a tactile typing experience that is both satisfying and responsive. Whether it's the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound or the top housing affecting the sound upon key release, the use of nylon ensures a consistent typing experience across both switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, we can see some distinct differences. The Nixie has a heavier actuation force of 63.5 grams compared to the Cold Plum's lighter 60 grams. However, the Nixie also has a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams compared to the Cold Plum's 70 grams. Both switches provide a different typing experience due to their varying force requirements. The Nixie offers a more substantial typing feel with its heavier forces, while the Cold Plum provides a slightly lighter touch, making it ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference, with some preferring the heavier feel of the Nixie and others opting for the lighter touch of the Cold Plum for their typing needs.
Travel distance
The Cherry Nixie linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches offer a more traditional travel distance compared to the shallower options available. Gamers may prefer the Cold Plum switch for its shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, as it allows for faster response times. On the other hand, the Nixie switch's longer travel distance of 4 mm may provide a more satisfying and substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference regarding response time and keypress depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry Nixie has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Nixie for $4.19.
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
When it comes to sound, the Cherry Nixie linear switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch does not have a specific sound description provided. However, both switches offer a unique sound experience that can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard itself and the keycaps used.
Turning to the feel of the switches, the Cherry Nixie is recognized for its textured typing experience, offering users a tactile sensation with each keystroke. In contrast, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch does not have a specific feel description provided. Despite this, both switches provide a distinct and enjoyable typing feel that caters to different preferences.
Overall, the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch each bring their own unique qualities to the table. While the Nixie is known for its textured feel and thocky sound, the Cold Plum offers a smooth keystroke and a unique typing experience. Depending on personal preferences and priorities, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience for enthusiasts. Whether you choose the Nixie or the Cold Plum, you can expect a high-quality switch that delivers reliable performance and a distinct feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a textured typing experience, the Cherry Nixie may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a thocky sound profile, smooth keystrokes, and a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Outemu Cold Plum switch could be the perfect fit for your typing preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles, so choose the one that best suits your personal preferences and typing needs.
Mentioned in this article
