Outemu Black vs. Kailh Plum
An in-depth look at the Outemu Black and the Kailh Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding between mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Black and the Kailh Plum stand out as popular choices within the community. The Outemu Black is a linear switch known for its smooth keystrokes and lack of tactile feedback, making it an excellent choice for fast and precise typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum offers a unique tactile experience with a hefty feel but a subtle tactile bump, creating a satisfying typing sensation without being overly heavy. While the Black is favored for its simplicity and consistency, the Plum is praised for its individuality and enjoyable sound profile. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.50 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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
Both the Outemu Black and the Kailh Plum feature polycarbonate top housings, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in both switches not only provides aesthetic benefits for those who utilize RGB lighting but also contributes to a more resonant and clear sound when typing. The similarities in their polycarbonate top housings mean that users can expect a comparable sound experience from both switches, emphasizing the importance of this housing material in creating a unique typing sound.
In contrast, the bottom housings of the Outemu Black and the Kailh Plum differ in material, with the Black utilizing nylon and the Plum also featuring a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for offering a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. Despite their similarities in bottom housing material, the slight variations in design between the Black and the Plum may contribute to subtle differences in sound and feel for users.
Overall, the combination of different housing materials in the Outemu Black and the Kailh Plum creates a unique typing experience that is influenced by both the top and bottom housings of the switches. While both switches share a polycarbonate top housing that produces a clear and resonant sound, their nylon bottom housings offer distinct qualities that impact the bottom-out sound and overall typing feel. Whether users prefer a sharper, crisper sound from the Black's top housing or a deeper, fuller sound from the Plum's bottom housing, both switches provide a customizable typing experience based on the materials used in their construction.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Black linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, it is evident that the Black switch is heavier in both aspects. The Outemu Black linear switch has an actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 82 grams, making it a relatively heavy switch. In contrast, the Kailh Plum tactile switch's actuation force is unknown, but it has a bottom out force of 70 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Plum switch, as it requires less force to bottom out. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may prefer the Outemu Black switch due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Black linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, it is evident that the Outemu Black has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the 3.6 mm travel distance of the Kailh Plum. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Black being on the longer end. For those who prefer a deeper keypress feel, the Outemu Black may be the preferred choice, while the Kailh Plum offers a slightly shorter travel distance that may appeal to those looking for quicker response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Black comes in at $3.10, whereas the Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25.
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 known for its quiet operation with a lack of audible click or tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile that is enjoyable and not too loud, making it suitable for a variety of environments. The choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prefer a more silent typing experience or appreciate a subtle sound with tactile feedback.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Black switch does not provide any specific information, but linear switches are typically smooth and consistent throughout the keystroke. In contrast, the Kailh Plum tactile switch is described as offering a mild and approachable typing experience with a unique heaviness to it without a pronounced tactile bump. Additionally, the Plum switch is noted for its stepped feel, providing a two-stage sensation that differs from traditional tactile switches, making it a standout choice for those seeking a different typing experience.
Overall, the Outemu Black linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch offer different qualities that cater to varying preferences. While the Black switch is ideal for those who prefer a quiet and linear typing experience, the Plum switch stands out for its unique tactile feedback and weightiness without a pronounced tactile bump. Both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, and the choice between the two will ultimately come down to individual preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a heavy linear switch with a bottom out force of 82 grams, then the Outemu Black switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy tactile switch with a bottom out force of 70 grams, the Kailh Plum switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to your personal preference for switch type, weight, and feel. Make sure to consider how you will be using the keyboard and what qualities are most important to you when making your decision.
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