Outemu Cold Plum vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple

Overview

When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Cold Plum and the SP-Star Polaris Purple. The Outemu Cold Plum is a linear switch that is best known for its thocky sound profile and smooth keystrokes due to its fully nylon construction. Perfect for typing enthusiasts looking for a unique and enjoyable typing experience, the Cold Plum switch offers a satisfying feel with every key press. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple is a tactile switch loved for its big tactile bump that provides an exhilarating typing experience. With a snappy sound profile, the Polaris Purple switch is categorized as "Neutral," "Mild," and "Polished." Both switches have their own unique qualities that make them appealing choices for different preferences; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Outemu Cold Plum Linear

SP-Star Polaris Purple Tactile

$3.10 per 10

$5.60

$5.00 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Cold Plum and the SP-Star Polaris Purple, we can see that they both offer unique characteristics that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch. The Cold Plum's nylon top and bottom housings provide a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple's polycarbonate top and bottom housings create a sharper and crisper sound profile with a higher pitch, thanks to the stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Despite the differences in materials, both switches prioritize sound quality, making them excellent choices for those who value acoustics in their typing experience.

The choice between nylon and polycarbonate housing materials also extends to aesthetics, with the Polaris Purple's translucent polycarbonate allowing for RGB lighting to shine through, adding a visually dynamic element to the switch. In contrast, the Cold Plum's opaque nylon housing provides a more traditional look that focuses on function over form. This difference in appearance may sway users towards one switch over the other based on their personal preferences in terms of design and customization options. However, in terms of performance, both housing materials excel in creating a unique sound profile that enhances the typing experience.

While the top and bottom housing materials of the Cold Plum and Polaris Purple differ, the impact of these materials on the overall sound profile of the switch remains significant. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. This divide in responsibilities between the top and bottom housings allows for a more nuanced and balanced typing experience, with each material contributing its own distinct qualities to the overall sound profile of the switch. Whether you prefer the deeper, fuller sound of nylon or the sharper, crisper sound of polycarbonate, both the Cold Plum and Polaris Purple offer a high-quality typing experience that is sure to satisfy even the most discerning keyboard enthusiasts.

Weight

The Outemu Cold Plum linear switch is slightly heavier compared to the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Cold Plum requires an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple has an unknown actuation force, but a bottom out force of 67 grams, also falling into the medium-heavy category. Both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, with the Cold Plum offering a slightly higher actuation force for those who prefer a stronger push feel. In contrast, the Polaris Purple may provide a slightly lighter typing experience due to its lower bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.

Travel distance

In comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, we can see that the Cold Plum has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Polaris Purple has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Cold Plum has a shorter travel distance than the Polaris Purple. Gamers who prefer faster response times may lean towards the Cold Plum due to its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a deeper key press may opt for the Polaris Purple with its longer travel distance. Both switches offer unique typing experiences due to their respective travel distances, providing users with the option to choose based on their preferences.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Outemu Cold Plum switch is known for its thocky sound profile, creating a satisfying and distinct typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple switch offers a snappy sound profile with a big tactile bump, providing an exhilarating typing experience. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, so the choice between the two would ultimately depend on personal preference and the overall sound profile desired.

When it comes to feel, the Outemu Cold Plum switch offers a smooth keystroke that adds to the enjoyable typing experience it provides. Meanwhile, the SP-Star Polaris Purple switch is described as having a mild tactile bump, offering a gentle and approachable typing experience. Additionally, the Polaris Purple switch is considered polished, meaning that it provides a smooth and refined typing experience due to reduced friction and smooth key travel. Again, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of the level of tactility and smoothness desired during typing.

In conclusion, both the Outemu Cold Plum and SP-Star Polaris Purple switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. The Cold Plum switch provides a thocky sound profile and a smooth keystroke for an enjoyable typing experience, while the Polaris Purple switch offers a snappy sound profile with a big tactile bump and a polished feel for a more refined typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on the individual's preference for sound profile, tactility, and overall typing experience desired. However, both switches are sure to provide a satisfying typing experience for enthusiasts looking to customize their mechanical keyboard.

Conclusion

In conclusion, when deciding between the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, you should consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a smooth keystroke and distinct thocky sound, the Cold Plum switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile typing experience with a snappy sound profile, the Polaris Purple switch would be the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a unique sound profile and fully nylon construction or a big tactile bump and polished finish in your mechanical keyboard switch. Choose the switch that best suits your typing preferences and needs.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Cold Plum Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

SP-Star Polaris Purple Tactile

$5.60

$5.00 per 10

Learn more