Outemu Cold Plum vs. Outemu Silent Grey
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cold Plum and the Outemu Silent Grey switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Cold Plum and Outemu Silent Grey switches offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Cold Plum is a linear switch known for its thocky sound profile and fully nylon construction, providing a smooth keystroke and satisfying sound for enthusiasts looking for a distinct typing feel. On the other hand, the Silent Grey switch offers a tactile typing experience with a quiet operation, featuring a pronounced bump and smooth keystroke that is perfect for those seeking a satisfying and silent switch. Both switches have their unique advantages, but choosing between the two ultimately depends on individual preferences and typing habits. 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
1.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Cold Plum and the Outemu Silent Grey, the key difference lies in the top housing material. The Cold Plum utilizes a nylon top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Silent Grey features a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper and crisper sound profile because of its stiffer plastic composition. This contrast in sound profiles showcases how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience, with the Cold Plum offering a more muted sound and the Silent Grey producing a clearer and more resonant sound.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, both the Cold Plum and the Silent Grey use nylon. This shared material results in a similar typing experience for the bottom-out sound and feel, as nylon's softer properties absorb more sound and create a duller and rounder sound profile. While the top housing material may differ between the two switches, the consistency in using nylon for the bottom housing ensures that both switches maintain a certain level of sound absorption and tactile feedback for a comfortable typing experience. This similarity in bottom housing material provides a familiar foundation for users regardless of the switch they choose.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Cold Plum and the Outemu Silent Grey ultimately comes down to individual preferences in sound profiles. The nylon top housing of the Cold Plum offers a softer and deeper sound, ideal for those seeking a quieter typing experience, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent Grey provides a sharper and more resonant sound, appealing to those who prefer a crisper typing sound. With the bottom housing material remaining the same for both switches, users can expect consistent tactile feedback and sound absorption, ensuring a reliable typing experience regardless of their choice between the Cold Plum and Silent Grey.
Weight
The Outemu Cold Plum linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch. The Cold Plum requires 60 grams of force to actuate and 70 grams to bottom out, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Silent Grey needs 50 grams to actuate and 65 grams to bottom out, also falling into the medium-heavy category. Both switches provide a satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a bit more resistance. The slight difference in weight between the two switches may not be significant for most users, as they will still get a similar typing experience with either option. Ultimately, the choice between the Cold Plum and Silent Grey switches will come down to personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Outemu Cold Plum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it a shorter option compared to the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Cold Plum offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, which is favored by gamers looking for fast-paced gameplay. On the other hand, the Silent Grey provides a more substantial depth when pressing down on the key, which some users may prefer for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference 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 Silent Grey.
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 switch is known for its thocky sound profile, while the Outemu Silent Grey switch is recognized for being quiet. The Cold Plum switch provides a unique and satisfying auditory experience with its nylon construction, whereas the Silent Grey switch offers a more subdued sound that is perfect for those who prefer a quieter typing environment. The actual sound produced by these switches will also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps being used.
In regards to feel, the Outemu Cold Plum switch is praised for its smooth keystroke, but specifics on tactile feedback are unknown. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Grey switch is highly tactile with a pronounced bump, providing users with a satisfying typing experience. Both switches offer a smooth keystroke, but the Silent Grey switch stands out for those who enjoy tactile feedback in their switches.
Overall, the Outemu Cold Plum switch and the Outemu Silent Grey switch cater to different preferences when it comes to sound and feel. The Cold Plum switch is ideal for those who enjoy a distinct thocky sound and a smooth keystroke, while the Silent Grey switch is perfect for users seeking a quiet and highly tactile typing experience. Depending on your personal preferences, you can expect to get a different typing experience with each switch, but both are sure to deliver quality performance in their own unique ways.
Conclusion
To sum up, when you're deciding between the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. Opt for the Cold Plum if you enjoy a thocky sound profile and smooth keystrokes, perfect for those who appreciate a unique typing experience with a bit of auditory feedback. On the other hand, choose the Silent Grey if you prefer a quiet typing experience with a pronounced bump and smooth keystrokes, ideal for those who value a satisfying and silent typing feel. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preference in sound and feel while typing.
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