Outemu Cold Plum vs. Outemu Dustproof Brown
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cold Plum and the Outemu Dustproof Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Cold Plum and Dustproof Brown offer distinct typing experiences for users. The Cold Plum switch is a linear switch that is best known for its thocky sound profile and fully nylon construction, providing a smooth keystroke and satisfying sound that appeals to enthusiasts looking for a unique typing feel. On the other hand, the Dustproof Brown is a tactile switch that offers a different typing experience compared to the Cold Plum. While the specific features of the Dustproof Brown switch are not highlighted in the provided information, tactile switches are generally known for having a noticeable bump in the keystroke, providing feedback to the user. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches would depend on personal preferences and typing needs. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Polycarbonate
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Cold Plum and the Outemu Dustproof Brown, one key difference lies in the material used for the top housing. The Cold Plum utilizes nylon for its top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of the plastic. In contrast, the Dustproof Brown's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound with a more clear and resonant profile. While the Cold Plum offers a duller and rounder sound, the Dustproof Brown provides a crisper and more defined auditory experience, particularly beneficial for those who prioritize clarity in their typing experience.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing, both the Cold Plum and the Dustproof Brown feature nylon materials. This choice of material results in a similar deep and full sound profile for both switches, thanks to the sound-absorbing properties of nylon. Despite having different top housing materials, the use of nylon for the bottom housing ensures that the typing experience remains consistent in terms of sound depth and richness. This consistency in the bottom housing material showcases the importance of the bottom-out sound and feel in providing a satisfying typing experience for users of both switches.
Overall, the contrasting top housing materials of nylon and polycarbonate in the Cold Plum and Dustproof Brown offer distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The Cold Plum's nylon top housing creates a softer and more rounded sound, while the Dustproof Brown's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and clearer sound. However, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures a consistent deep and full sound experience across both switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two housing materials may come down to personal preference regarding sound aesthetics and typing feel.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, it is clear that the Cold Plum has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Dustproof Brown's lighter 45 grams. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Cold Plum requiring 70 grams and the Dustproof Brown needing 65 grams. The Cold Plum offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier actuation force, while the Dustproof Brown is lighter and may be preferable for longer typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The Outemu Cold Plum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Dustproof Brown switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Cold Plum switch. The Cold Plum switch may provide a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a good choice for gamers looking for faster keystrokes. On the other hand, the Dustproof Brown switch with its longer travel distance may offer a more satisfying tactile feedback for those who prefer a deeper keystroke feel. Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately depends on the user's preference for travel distance and the type of typing experience they are looking for.
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 Dustproof Brown.
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
Overall, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch offers a thocky sound profile and smooth keystrokes, providing a unique and enjoyable typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch's sound and feel qualities are unknown. Both switches offer different typing experiences, with the Cold Plum focusing on a satisfying sound and the Dustproof Brown presumably offering a tactile feedback. It's important to consider personal preference and the overall setup of your keyboard when choosing between these switches. Ultimately, both switches are crafted with quality materials and are reliable options for those looking to enhance their typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a unique thocky sound profile and smooth keystrokes, the Cold Plum may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile typing experience with a slightly lighter bottom out force, the Dustproof Brown switch may suit your needs better. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the specific typing feel and sound profile that you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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