Outemu Black vs. Outemu Cold Plum
An in-depth look at the Outemu Black and the Outemu Cold Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the Outemu Black and the Outemu Cold Plum. The Outemu Black is a linear switch known for its smooth keystrokes and consistent actuation force. On the other hand, the Outemu Cold Plum stands out for its thocky sound profile and fully nylon construction, providing a unique and satisfying typing experience for enthusiasts. While the Black may appeal to those seeking a simple and reliable switch, the Cold Plum is ideal for those looking for a more 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
65g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.50 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Overall, the Outemu Black and Outemu Cold Plum switches feature different housing materials that greatly influence the sound profiles they produce. The Black's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the Cold Plum's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound. This contrast in sound profiles can cater to different preferences, with the polycarbonate top housing offering a more resonant and clear typing experience, while the nylon top housing provides a more rounded and dull sound.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Outemu Black and Cold Plum switches feature nylon housings, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This similarity in housing material means that pressing down on the switches will result in a similar tactile experience, with the nylon bottom housing absorbing more sound and creating a duller sound profile. While the top and bottom housing materials may differ between the switches, the use of nylon in both cases ensures that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Black and Cold Plum switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile. The Black's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound, while the Cold Plum's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches feature nylon bottom housings, contributing to a consistent typing experience in terms of sound. Whether you prefer a more resonant and clear typing experience with the Black or a rounder and duller sound with the Cold Plum, both switches offer quality housing materials that enhance the overall typing experience.
Weight
The Outemu Black linear switch has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch. The Black requires 65 grams of force to actuate and 82 grams to bottom out, making it a heavier option. On the other hand, the Cold Plum only needs 60 grams to actuate and 70 grams to bottom out, qualifying it as a medium-heavy switch. The Black switch would appeal to those who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience, while the Cold Plum switch would be a better choice for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of typing or gaming. In terms of weight preference, the Outemu Black is heavier, while the Outemu Cold Plum is lighter. Both switches provide a different typing experience and choice should be based on personal preference.
Travel distance
The Outemu Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Black has a longer travel distance than the Cold Plum, making it the switch with a deeper keypress feel. On the other hand, the Cold Plum offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may appeal to users looking for a more responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for keypress depth and response time. Both switches offer different travel distances to cater to a variety of typing preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
In this case, both switches are $3.10. As such, price can't serve as a tiebreaker when choosing between the Black and Cold Plum.
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 Outemu Black linear switch is often considered to have a more muted and subtle sound compared to the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch. The Outemu Cold Plum switch, on the other hand, is known for its thocky sound profile which is more pronounced and satisfying to many users. The choice of keycaps and the keyboard case can also influence the sound of the switches, but generally, if you're looking for a louder and more distinct sound, the Cold Plum switch may be the better option for you.
As for the feel of the switches, the Outemu Black linear switch is typically described as smoother and more consistent in keystrokes compared to the Outemu Cold Plum switch. The Cold Plum switch, with its fully nylon construction, provides a unique typing experience that is often preferred by enthusiasts for its satisfying and smooth keystrokes. If you prefer a more uniform and consistent feel with your keystrokes, the Outemu Black switch might be the better choice for you.
Overall, when considering the sound and feel of the Outemu Black linear switch versus the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you enjoy a quieter typing experience with a smoother feel, the Black switch might be the right fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile and satisfying typing experience with a pronounced sound profile, the Cold Plum switch could be the better option. Each switch offers its own unique qualities, so it's essential to consider your preferences and typing style when making a decision.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between Outemu Black linear switches and Outemu Cold Plum linear switches, you should consider the weight of the bottom out force and the typing experience you are seeking. If you prefer a heavier switch with a bottom out force of 82 grams, the Outemu Black linear switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter switch with a bottom out force of 70 grams and are looking for a unique typing experience with a thocky sound profile and smooth keystrokes, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch may be more suitable. Ultimately, your preference for weight and typing feel will guide you in choosing between these two switches.
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