Kailh NovelKeys Cream vs. Outemu Cold Plum
An in-depth look at the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Outemu Cold Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Outemu Cold Plum mechanical keyboard switches, both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The NovelKeys Cream provides a heftier linear typing experience with a deep sound profile, making it ideal for those who appreciate a tactile and resonant feel while typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum stands out for its thocky sound profile and smooth keystrokes, offering a distinct and enjoyable typing experience for enthusiasts. 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
70g
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
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Outemu Cold Plum, it is evident that both switches are designed to provide a unique and pleasing sound profile. The NovelKeys Cream utilizes POM for both the top and bottom housings, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound. On the other hand, the Cold Plum incorporates a nylon top and bottom housing, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile that is softer and absorbs more sound. Despite the difference in materials, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with their distinct sound characteristics.
However, the choice of material for the top and bottom housings does play a significant role in the overall sound and feel of the switch. While the POM housings of the NovelKeys Cream create a consistent and deep sound profile throughout the keystroke, the nylon housings of the Cold Plum may offer a softer and rounder sound due to its sound absorption properties. This shows how the material composition of the housing can influence the overall typing experience and sound output of the switch, highlighting the importance of selecting the appropriate material for each component.
Ultimately, whether one prefers the POM housings of the NovelKeys Cream or the nylon housings of the Cold Plum will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in typing experience, with the NovelKeys Cream providing a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the Cold Plum offers a fuller and rounder sound. Regardless of the differences in housing materials, both switches aim to deliver a satisfying typing experience with their distinct sound profiles, showcasing the versatility of different materials in switch design.
Weight
The Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch which has an actuation force of 60 grams. Both switches have a bottom out force of 70 grams, making them equally medium-heavy in that aspect. The NovelKeys Cream may be preferred by those who prefer a slightly lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming, while the Cold Plum may appeal to those who prefer a bit more resistance for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch is 4 mm, while the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Cold Plum has a shorter travel distance compared to the NovelKeys Cream. The 4.0mm travel distance of the NovelKeys Cream is more traditional, offering a deeper key press experience, which may be preferred by some users. On the other hand, the shorter 3.3 mm travel distance of the Cold Plum may appeal to those looking for a faster response time, such as gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Kailh NovelKeys Cream 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 Cream 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
While the NovelKeys Cream linear switch offers a low-pitched and resonant sound profile, creating a deep and immersive auditory experience, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch is known for its thocky sound profile. The Cream switch provides a heftier typing experience with a deeper sound compared to the Cold Plum switch, which offers a unique and satisfying sound due to its fully nylon construction. Both switches have their own distinct sound qualities, so choosing between them would depend on personal preference and the overall setup of your keyboard.
When it comes to the typing feel, the NovelKeys Cream switch is described as buttery, textured, and invigorating, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke with noticeable feedback and moderate actuation force. On the other hand, the feel of the Cold Plum switch is not specified. In this case, if the typing experience is a crucial factor in your decision-making process, the NovelKeys Cream switch may offer a more detailed description of its tactile properties to help you make an informed choice.
In conclusion, the NovelKeys Cream and Outemu Cold Plum linear switches each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. If you are looking for a switch with a deep and resonant sound profile and a buttery, textured, and invigorating typing feel, the NovelKeys Cream switch would be a great option. However, if you prefer a thocky sound profile and are open to exploring a different tactile experience, the Outemu Cold Plum switch might be the better choice for you. Ultimately, the decision between these switches would depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Kailh NovelKeys Cream and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switches, you should consider your preference for the typing experience. If you enjoy a heavier and more pronounced linear typing experience with a deep sound profile, the NovelKeys Cream switches may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a unique thocky sound profile and smooth keystrokes, the Outemu Cold Plum switches offer a distinct and enjoyable typing feel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for the sound and feel of the switches.
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