KTT Orange vs. Outemu Cold Plum
An in-depth look at the KTT Orange and the Outemu Cold Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Orange linear switch to the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, we see distinct characteristics that set them apart. The KTT Orange switch is renowned for its bouncy feel, frictionless typing experience, and low-pitched sound profile, making it a popular choice for those who prefer a smooth and refined key travel. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum switch offers a thocky sound profile and fully nylon construction, providing a unique typing experience with a satisfying keystroke. While the Orange switch boasts excellent factory-lubing for minimized friction, the Cold Plum switch stands out with its distinct sound and smooth feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
46g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Orange and the Outemu Cold Plum switches are quite different in terms of sound profiles and aesthetics. The Orange features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the Cold Plum has a nylon top housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. While the Orange is more likely to be used with RGB lighting due to its translucency, the Cold Plum offers a classic switch housing material with a rounder sound.
Both switches have different materials for their bottom housings as well. The Orange's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to the sharp, high-pitched sound profile characteristic of the switch. In comparison, the Cold Plum's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. When using these switches, the qualities of the bottom housing will impact the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will affect the sound when releasing a key. Despite their differences, both housing materials offer unique sound profiles and experiences for users to enjoy.
Overall, the choice between the KTT Orange and the Outemu Cold Plum switches depends on personal preferences for sound profiles and aesthetics. The polycarbonate top and bottom housings of the Orange create a sharper and crisper sound, ideal for those looking for a more defined typing experience. On the other hand, the nylon housings of the Cold Plum offer a deeper and fuller sound, perfect for users who prefer a rounder sound profile. Ultimately, both switches provide distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can find the perfect switch for their typing needs.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Orange linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, it's clear that the Orange is lighter while the Cold Plum is heavier. The Orange has an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it medium-light, while the Cold Plum boasts an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the KTT Orange for extended typing sessions or gaming, while those seeking a more robust typing experience may opt for the heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Outemu Cold Plum. In either case, users can expect consistent results within their preferred force range for a comfortable and efficient typing experience.
Travel distance
The KTT Orange linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch both have shorter travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0mm distance. The Orange has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.5mm, while the Cold Plum has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3mm. Both switches offer a more responsive typing experience preferred by gamers, with the Cold Plum being slightly quicker due to its shorter distance. However, those who prefer a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Orange switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, both switches will provide similar results in terms of speed and responsiveness, with the Cold Plum being the shorter option and the Orange being the longer option.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Orange has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange 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
When comparing the subjective qualities of the KTT Orange linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, it is important to note the differences in sound and feel. The KTT Orange switch is known for its low-pitched sound profile, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone during typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum switch provides a thocky sound profile, giving a distinct and satisfying typing experience. In terms of feel, the KTT Orange switch offers a bouncy and frictionless typing experience, with a spring-like feedback and smooth key travel. While the feel of the Cold Plum switch is not explicitly described, it is known for its smooth keystroke and enjoyable typing feel.
Overall, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The KTT Orange switch provides a bouncy and frictionless typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, while the Outemu Cold Plum switch offers a thocky sound and smooth keystroke. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience. Due to their distinct characteristics, choosing between the KTT Orange and Outemu Cold Plum switches will ultimately depend on individual preference and desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you are looking for a medium-light switch with a bouncy and frictionless typing experience, the KTT Orange linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a thocky sound profile and a smooth keystroke, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal preference for bottom out force, typing experience, and sound profile. Consider what factors are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch and choose accordingly.
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