Outemu Cold Plum vs. Outemu Cream Blue
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cold Plum and the Outemu Cream Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Cold Plum and Outemu Cream Blue offer distinct typing experiences for enthusiasts. The Cold Plum switch stands out for its thocky sound profile and smooth keystrokes, thanks to its fully nylon construction. This linear switch is a great choice for those seeking a unique and enjoyable typing feel. On the other hand, the Cream Blue switch offers a clicky typing experience, but not much information is available about its specific features. If you prefer a switch with audible feedback and tactile response, the Cream Blue could be the way to go. 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
60g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Nylon
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Outemu Cold Plum and Outemu Cream Blue switches utilize nylon as their housing material, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softness of the plastic absorbing more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing, creating a satisfying auditory experience for users. In terms of material, both switches offer similar benefits in terms of sound quality and typing feel thanks to the nylon housing.
Despite both switches sharing nylon as their housing material, the qualities of each housing are divided between the top and bottom of the switch. While the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when typing on the switch, the top housing plays a significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. This division allows for a more nuanced typing experience as users can feel and hear the impact of both housing materials in different stages of typing on the switches.
Overall, the Outemu Cold Plum and Outemu Cream Blue switches offer a similar typing experience due to their shared use of nylon housing. Both switches provide a deeper and fuller sound profile that is characteristic of nylon's sound-absorption properties. However, the division of housing qualities between the top and bottom of the switches allows for a more nuanced typing experience, with users being able to feel and hear the impact of each housing material at different points during typing.Ultimately, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience that is enhanced by the unique qualities of the nylon housing material used in their construction.
Weight
The Outemu Cold Plum linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch both provide medium-heavy actuation forces and bottom out forces. The Cold Plum requires 60 grams of force to actuate and 70 grams to bottom out, while the Cream Blue requires 50 grams to actuate and 65 grams to bottom out. In terms of weight, the Cream Blue is lighter than the Cold Plum, making it a good choice for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time. On the other hand, the Cold Plum offers a slightly heavier typing experience, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial push feel. Both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, but the choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, it is evident that the Cold Plum has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm while the Cream Blue has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Cold Plum's 3.3 mm travel distance falls on the shorter end of the spectrum, making it ideal for those seeking a more responsive typing experience, especially for gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the Cream Blue's 4 mm travel distance provides a deeper key press feel, which may be preferred by individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key press depth and responsiveness.
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 Cold Plum and Cream Blue.
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
The Outemu Cold Plum linear switch is known for its thocky sound profile, providing a smooth keystroke and a satisfying sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch does not have a specific sound description available. When it comes to feel, the Cold Plum offers a unique typing experience with its fully nylon construction, but the feel of the Cream Blue switch is unknown at this time.
Overall, if you are looking for a switch with a distinct and enjoyable typing feel accompanied by a thocky sound profile, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch would be a great choice. However, if you prefer a clicky switch and sound is not a major factor for you, the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch could also provide a satisfying typing experience. It's important to consider personal preferences, typing style, and the overall setup of your mechanical keyboard when choosing between these two switches to ensure the best fit for your needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch or the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, you should first think about your preferences for sound and feel. If you are looking for a unique typing experience with a thocky sound profile and smooth keystrokes, the Cold Plum may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy the satisfying clicky sound of a switch and prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Cream Blue switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and what type of typing experience you are looking to achieve.
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