Outemu Cold Plum vs. Outemu Ocean
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cold Plum and the Outemu Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the Outemu cold plum and the Outemu ocean. The cold plum is a linear switch that stands out for its thocky sound profile and fully nylon construction, offering a smooth keystroke and satisfying sound that appeals to typing enthusiasts looking for a unique experience. On the other hand, the ocean is a tactile switch that features a more pronounced bump in its actuation point. While the cold plum excels in providing a distinct typing feel, the ocean delivers a different tactile feedback. Both switches have their own strengths, making them suitable for different preferences. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
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
The main difference between the housing materials of the Outemu Cold Plum and the Outemu Ocean lies in their top housing. The Cold Plum features a nylon top housing, which is known for creating a deep and full sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Ocean has a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This difference in top housing material leads to distinct auditory experiences when typing on the switches.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, both the Cold Plum and the Ocean utilize nylon material. This means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of the deep and full sound profile created by the softer nature of nylon. The bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, making it a crucial component in determining the overall typing experience. In this aspect, both switches offer consistency in the sound and feel produced during typing.
In conclusion, while both the Outemu Cold Plum and the Outemu Ocean share a common nylon bottom housing that provides a consistent typing experience, they differ in their top housing materials. The nylon top housing of the Cold Plum creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Ocean generates a sharper and crisper sound profile. Depending on personal preference for sound aesthetics, users can choose between the two switches to achieve the desired typing experience based on the top housing material.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, it is evident that the Cold Plum is the heavier option. The Cold Plum has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Ocean is lighter with an actuation force of 55 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Ocean is unknown. Weight plays a significant role in the typing experience, with lighter switches being preferred for extended typing sessions and heavier switches offering a more substantial typing feel. In this case, those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Ocean, while those looking for a heavier actuation may opt for the Cold Plum. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, it is evident that the Cold Plum has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm compared to the Ocean's 4 mm. The Cold Plum is better suited for those seeking a faster response time, as the shorter travel distance allows for quicker key presses. On the other hand, the Ocean, with its slightly longer travel distance, may provide a more satisfying and tactile typing experience for those who prefer deeper key presses. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing feel.
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 Ocean.
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 Cold Plum linear switch is known for its thocky sound profile, creating a deep and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Ocean tactile switch's sound characteristics are not well-known, so it's difficult to compare the two in this aspect. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard frame material and keycap material used.
In terms of feel, the Cold Plum linear switch is praised for its smooth keystrokes, providing a consistent and enjoyable typing feel for users. Conversely, information on the feel of the Outemu Ocean tactile switch is not readily available. While it's harder to directly compare the feel of the two switches without specific details on the Ocean switch, it can be inferred that both switches may offer similar levels of quality and satisfaction in terms of typing feel.
Overall, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch is known for its unique thocky sound profile and smooth keystrokes, making it a popular choice among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Although specific details on the sound and feel of the Outemu Ocean tactile switch are limited, it can be assumed that both switches offer high-quality typing experiences. Depending on personal preference for sound and typing feel, users may find that either switch meets their needs and provides an enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, consider your typing preferences and priorities. If you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force and a unique typing experience with a thocky sound profile, the Cold Plum may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if bottom out force is not a specific requirement and you prioritize a tactile typing experience, the Ocean switch might be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches should be based on your individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
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