Outemu Cold Plum vs. Outemu Silver
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cold Plum and the Outemu Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu cold plum and Outemu silver mechanical keyboard switches, it is important to note their distinct characteristics. The cold plum stands out for its thocky sound profile and fully nylon construction, offering a smooth keystroke and satisfying sound that appeals to typing enthusiasts. The silver switch, on the other hand, is known for its rapid actuation and lighter feel. While the cold plum switch is categorized as a tactile switch, the silver switch falls into the category of linear switches. Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for. 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
45g
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
The key difference between the Outemu Cold Plum and the Outemu Silver lies in their top housing materials. The Cold Plum features a nylon top housing, known for creating a deep and full sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Silver boasts a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper and crisper sound profile because of its stiffer plastic composition. This results in a more resonant sound that is particularly highlighted when using RGB lighting due to the translucency of the polycarbonate material.
On the other hand, both the Cold Plum and the Silver utilize nylon bottom housings, which contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches by providing a deep and fuller sound when typing. The properties of the nylon material in the bottom housing absorb more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound profile that adds to the typing experience. While the top and bottom housing materials may differ between the two switches, their similar use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures a comparable typing experience in terms of sound profile and feel.
In conclusion, the choice between the Outemu Cold Plum and the Outemu Silver ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile. The Cold Plum offers a deeper and fuller sound due to its nylon top and bottom housings, while the Silver provides a sharper and crisper sound profile with its polycarbonate top housing. Both switches deliver a satisfying typing experience, with the top housing material playing a significant role in the sound produced when pressing down and releasing a key. Overall, the housing materials of each switch highlight the importance of material composition in determining the sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
The Outemu Cold Plum linear switch has a higher actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Outemu Silver switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the Cold Plum switch will require more force to register a keystroke. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Cold Plum requiring 70 grams and the Silver requiring 65 grams. The Cold Plum switch can be considered heavier in terms of actuation force but equal in terms of bottom out force compared to the Silver switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Outemu Silver switch may be the better choice, as it requires less force to actuate. On the other hand, those looking for a more substantial typing experience may prefer the Outemu Cold Plum switch due to its higher actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The Outemu Cold Plum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, which is shorter than the Outemu Silver linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Cold Plum offers a slightly quicker response time compared to the Silver due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers who prioritize fast and precise keystrokes may prefer the Cold Plum switch. On the other hand, the Silver switch provides a more traditional and deep key press feel with its longer travel distance, making it suitable for those who prefer a more substantial keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key 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 Silver.
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, which provides a deep and satisfying sound when typing. The fully nylon construction of the switch adds to this unique sound experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silver linear switch does not have a specific reputation for sound, making it a bit of an unknown in terms of auditory feedback. When it comes to feel, the Cold Plum switch offers a smooth keystroke that is highly enjoyable for enthusiasts looking for a distinct typing experience. As for the Silver switch, there is limited information on its tactile feel, making it difficult to compare to the Cold Plum in this aspect.
Taking all available information into consideration, it is clear that the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch stands out for its unique sound profile and smooth keystroke, making it a popular choice among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the Outemu Silver switch may offer similar qualities, its lack of specific reputation in sound and feel makes it a bit of a wildcard in comparison. Ultimately, when choosing between the two switches, opting for the Cold Plum may provide a more guaranteed and satisfying typing experience based on the known qualities of the switch.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the Outemu Cold Plum and Silver linear switches, you should consider your preference for bottom out force and typing experience. If you prefer a slightly heavier switch with a unique thocky sound profile and smooth keystrokes, then the Cold Plum may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch and do not have a specific preference for sound or feel, then the Silver could be a suitable option. Consider your typing style and what you value most in a switch when making your decision.
Mentioned in this article
