Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry vs. Outemu Cold Plum
An in-depth look at the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the Outemu Cold Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the Outemu Cold Plum are two popular options to consider. The NovelKeys Blueberry boasts a sharp tactile bump, perfect for those who prefer a more pronounced typing feel without the excessive noise. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum offers a smooth and quiet typing experience with a thocky sound profile that many enthusiasts appreciate. Each switch has its own unique characteristics and is suitable for different preferences. 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
55g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
3.00 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
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the Outemu Cold Plum both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their respective sound profiles. The Blueberry utilizes POM for both the top and bottom housing, creating a deeper and more muted sound. On the other hand, the Cold Plum uses nylon for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The use of POM in the Blueberry creates a distinct sound quality, while the nylon in the Cold Plum absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
While both switches have different housing materials, the impact of these materials is felt in similar ways. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the key press, with the POM bottom housing of the Blueberry offering a unique sound profile, while the Cold Plum's nylon bottom housing delivers a deeper and fuller sound experience. On the other hand, the top housing influences the sound when the key is released, with the POM top housing of the Blueberry creating a pleasing and unique sound, and the nylon top housing of the Cold Plum eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile.
Overall, the choice between the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry and the Outemu Cold Plum ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile. The POM housing of the Blueberry provides a distinct and muted sound, while the nylon housing of the Cold Plum offers a deeper and fuller sound experience. Both switches showcase the impact that housing materials can have on the overall sound profile of a mechanical keyboard switch, with each material contributing in its own unique way to the typing experience. Whether you prefer a more muted sound or a fuller sound, both switches offer high-quality housing materials that enhance the overall typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, it is evident that the Blueberry switch has a lighter actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Cold Plum's 60 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Blueberry switch is heavier at 80 grams, while the Cold Plum is slightly lighter at 70 grams. This means that the Blueberry switch offers a lighter typing experience initially but requires a heavier push for bottoming out, whereas the Cold Plum provides a slightly heavier feel throughout the typing process. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Blueberry being more suitable for extended typing sessions and the Cold Plum offering a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on the user's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch is 4 mm, while the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. The NovelKeys Blueberry offers a more traditional travel distance, providing a deeper key press experience compared to the Cold Plum. Gamers who value faster response times may prefer the Cold Plum due to its shorter travel distance. However, those who enjoy a more substantial key press may opt for the NovelKeys Blueberry. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the NovelKeys Blueberry for $6.25.
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
In terms of sound, the NovelKeys Blueberry offers a low-pitched and resonant typing experience, providing a clean and sharp sound profile that is not overly loud. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum switches are known for their thocky sound profile, which is characterized by a deep and satisfying sound. The Cold Plum switches may provide a more immersive auditory experience compared to the Blueberry switches, but ultimately, the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel, the NovelKeys Blueberry switches are described as snappy, buttery, textured, invigorating, and stiff. These switches offer a responsive and lively typing experience with a smooth and uniform keystroke sensation. On the other hand, the feel of the Outemu Cold Plum switches is unknown at this time. The lack of information regarding the feel of the Cold Plum switches may make it harder to directly compare them to the qualities of the Blueberry switches in terms of typing experience.
Overall, when considering the subjective qualities of the two switches based on available information, the NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch stands out for its sharp tactile bump, lower-than-average sound frequency, and a range of satisfying typing sensations. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch is known for its thocky sound profile and unique typing experience. Depending on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience, both switches offer distinct qualities that may cater to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, trying out both switches on a keyboard with preferred keycaps would provide the most accurate comparison to determine which switch aligns best with one's preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a sharp tactile bump, a lower-pitched sound profile, and a snappy typing feel, then the NovelKeys Blueberry may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a thocky sound profile, a smooth keystroke, and a unique typing experience, then the Outemu Cold Plum may be the switch for you. Consider your typing style, sound preference, and desired typing experience when making your decision. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing preferences.
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