Bsun Olive vs. Outemu Cold Plum
An in-depth look at the Bsun Olive and the Outemu Cold Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Olive tactile switch to the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, the key differences lie in the type of feedback and sound they offer. The Bsun Olive switches are praised for their pronounced tactile feedback and resonant, deep sound, making them a popular choice for those who enjoy a satisfyingly tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum switches offer a smooth keystroke and thocky sound profile, providing a different kind of enjoyment for enthusiasts seeking a unique typing feel. Each switch has its own strengths and appeals to different preferences, but ultimately the choice between them will depend on personal preference. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The main difference between the Bsun Olive and the Outemu Cold Plum lies in their housing materials. While the Olive uses POM for both the top and bottom housing, the Cold Plum utilizes nylon for both components. POM is known for creating a deeper and more muted sound profile compared to the nylon, which elicits a fuller and rounder sound. Both materials have their unique characteristics, with POM providing a pleasing and unique sound, and nylon absorbing more sound to create a duller tone.
In terms of sound production, the housing materials of the Olive and the Cold Plum play a critical role. The POM top and bottom housing of the Olive contribute to a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the Cold Plum's nylon housing facilitates a fuller and rounder sound. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a richer typing experience. On the other hand, POM's properties create a unique and pleasing sound that resonates with users who prefer a softer tone.
Despite the differences in housing materials, both the Bsun Olive and the Outemu Cold Plum offer satisfying sound profiles that cater to different preferences. Whether it's the POM or nylon housing, each switch brings its own qualities to the table. While the bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, the top housing plays a significant role in the sound produced when a key is released. Ultimately, the choice between the Olive and the Cold Plum comes down to personal preference in sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Olive tactile switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, it is evident that the Cold Plum has a slightly heavier actuation and bottom out force compared to the Olive. The Olive requires 45 grams to actuate and 65 grams to bottom out, while the Cold Plum needs 60 grams to actuate and 70 grams to bottom out. Both switches fall within the medium-heavy range, offering a substantial typing experience for users who prefer a stronger push feel. For those who prefer lighter switches for longer typing sessions or gaming, the Olive may be the better option. However, if a more substantial typing experience is desired, the Cold Plum would be the preferred choice. In both cases, users can expect similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Bsun Olive tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are popular for their faster response times, especially among gamers. The slight difference in travel distance may not be very noticeable in practical use, but for those who prefer a bit more depth in their key press, the Olive with the longer travel distance might be the preferred choice. Ultimately, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance compared to traditional switches, providing a more responsive typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Olive has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Olive for $4.70.
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 BSUN Olive switches are best known for their resonant, deep sound that sets them apart from other switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum switches offer a unique thocky sound profile that many enthusiasts find enjoyable. The sound produced by each switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Olive switches are characterized by their accented tactile feedback, providing a medium amount of tactility that is not overwhelming but still noticeable. This, combined with their invigorating and sharp tactile bump, creates a typing sensation that is both satisfying and responsive. In comparison, the Cold Plum switches offer a smooth keystroke experience, but specific descriptors of their tactile feel are not provided.
Overall, the BSUN Olive switches are known for their pronounced tactile feedback, medium weight, and unique design that results in a satisfying feel and auditory experience during use. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum switches provide a distinct typing experience with their thocky sound profile and smooth keystrokes. Both switches offer different advantages in sound and feel, so ultimately, the choice between them would come down to personal preference and what qualities are most important to the user.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch that offers a unique tactile typing experience with a resonant, deep sound, then the Bsun Olive switch would be the ideal choice for you. Its pronounced tactile feedback and crisp bottom-out make it a satisfying option for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth linear switch with a thocky sound profile, the Outemu Cold Plum switch would be more suitable for you. Its nylon construction and unique typing feel make it a great choice for enthusiasts seeking a distinct and enjoyable typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the Bsun Olive tactile switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch will come down to your personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
