Outemu Cold Plum vs. Outemu Spring Breeze
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cold Plum and the Outemu Spring Breeze switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, there are a few key differences to consider. The Cold Plum switch is highly regarded for its thocky sound profile and smooth keystroke thanks to its fully nylon construction, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts looking for a unique and enjoyable typing experience. On the other hand, the Spring Breeze switch offers a different typing experience with its clicky sound feedback, providing a more tactile feel with every press. While both switches have their own strengths, it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and typing feel. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 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
Nylon
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
Both the Outemu Cold Plum and the Outemu Spring Breeze utilize nylon as the material for both their top and bottom switch housings. This means that when it comes to the housing material, these two switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile and overall feel. The use of nylon in the construction of the housings results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on these switches. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound that is characteristic of switches using this material.
While both the Cold Plum and the Spring Breeze share the same nylon material for their housing components, they may still differ in terms of the overall typing experience they provide. The specific design and construction of each switch can influence how the housing material interacts with the other components, such as the stem and spring. This can impact factors such as actuation force, key travel distance, and overall smoothness of the typing experience. Paying attention to these details can help distinguish any subtle differences between the two switches despite having the same housing material.
It is important to note that the top and bottom housing of a switch can play different roles in affecting the overall typing experience. The bottom housing typically influences the bottom-out sound and feel of a keypress, while the top housing may have a greater impact on the sound when a key is released. Understanding how each component contributes to the overall typing experience can help users appreciate the nuances of switches like the Outemu Cold Plum and Outemu Spring Breeze, even if they share the same housing material. By considering these factors, users can make informed decisions when selecting a switch that best suits their preferences and typing style.
Weight
The Outemu Cold Plum linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams. The Cold Plum also has a higher bottom out force of 70 grams, while the Spring Breeze has a lower bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that the Cold Plum will provide a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Spring Breeze will be lighter and easier to type on for longer periods of time. Both switches offer different weight options, allowing users to choose based on their preferences for typing comfort and feedback.
Travel distance
The Outemu Cold Plum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it shorter than the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Cold Plum allows for quicker response times, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for speed. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Spring Breeze may provide a more satisfying depth for those who prefer a more tactile experience when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with the Cold Plum offering a shorter travel distance for faster typing and the Spring Breeze providing a longer travel distance for a more robust 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 Spring Breeze.
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 deep and satisfying "thocky" sound profile, which is highly acclaimed by enthusiasts for offering a pleasant auditory experience while typing. On the other hand, Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch's sound profile is not known, making it difficult to compare to the Cold Plum in this aspect. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's design and the keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch is praised for its smooth keystroke, providing a satisfying typing experience with each key press. Conversely, the feel of the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch is not known, making it challenging to directly compare it to the Cold Plum switch in this regard. Both switches may have their unique tactile properties that cater to different preferences among users.
Overall, if you are looking for a switch with a unique typing experience characterized by a thocky sound profile and a smooth keystroke, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you are seeking an alternative clicky switch option, the Outemu Spring Breeze may offer a distinct typing experience, albeit with unknown qualities in sound and feel. Remember to consider your personal typing preferences and needs when choosing between these two switches to ensure a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch and the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch, you should consider your preferred typing experience. If you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force and a smooth keystroke with a thocky sound profile, the Cold Plum switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a clicky sound profile, the Spring Breeze switch could be more fitting. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize the unique typing feel of the Cold Plum or the satisfying click of the Spring Breeze. Consider your preferences carefully to ensure you find the perfect mechanical keyboard switch for your typing style.
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