Outemu Cold Plum vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cold Plum and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Cold Plum and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) stand out for their distinct characteristics. The Cold Plum is revered for its thocky sound profile and smooth keystrokes, making it a top choice for enthusiasts looking for a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) offers maximum tactility with a sharp and satisfying clack, perfect for those who prefer a more pronounced tactile response. While the Cold Plum provides a satisfying typing feel with its nylon construction, the POM T1 (Sunflower) excels in delivering a resonant and invigorating typing experience. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Nylon
Stem material
Proprietary
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Cold Plum and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) both offer unique sound profiles, with the Cold Plum utilizing a nylon top and bottom housing while the POM T1 (Sunflower) incorporates a POM top and bottom housing. Nylon is known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, POM housings are praised for their pleasing and unique sound that leans towards the deeper side while also maintaining a relatively more muted tone. Despite their differences, both materials contribute to enhancing the overall typing experience by providing distinct auditory feedback.
In terms of sound production, the bottom housing of a switch plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, which is influenced by the material it is made of. The nylon bottom housing of the Cold Plum and the POM bottom housing of the POM T1 (Sunflower) will offer distinct tactile feedback and sound characteristics when the switch is pressed down. Conversely, the top housing of a switch is more impactful on the sound produced when a key is released. While the Cold Plum's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, the POM T1's POM top housing generates a more muted and pleasing tone. This demonstrates how the choice of housing material can affect both the typing experience and sound output of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Overall, both the Outemu Cold Plum and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) showcase the importance of housing materials in influencing the sound profile and typing experience of mechanical keyboard switches. While their characteristics differ - with nylon offering a rounder sound and POM providing a more muted tone - both materials excel in creating a unique and satisfying typing sensation. By understanding the impact of top and bottom housing materials on sound production and tactile feedback, keyboard enthusiasts can make informed decisions when selecting switches for their desired typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, we can see that the Cold Plum has a slightly higher actuation force of 60 grams compared to the None grams of the POM T1. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force of 70 grams for the Cold Plum and 67 grams for the POM T1. This means that while the Cold Plum is slightly heavier in terms of actuation force, both switches provide a medium-heavy typing experience when bottoming out. This difference in actuation force may result in a slightly lighter typing feel for the POM T1 switch, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions, while the Cold Plum may appeal to those who prefer a slightly heavier push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and weight preference.
Travel distance
The Outemu Cold Plum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Cold Plum has a shorter travel distance compared to the POM T1. The Cold Plum's 3.3 mm travel distance may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times, as shorter distances are growing in popularity. On the other hand, the POM T1's 4 mm travel distance may be preferred by those looking for a more substantial key press feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience. Both switches offer unique characteristics, providing users with options to suit their individual needs.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the POM T1 (Sunflower) for $5.57.
The Outemu Cold Plum comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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 Cold Plum switch offers a thocky sound profile due to its fully nylon construction, providing a unique and satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch is known for its resonant sound profile, which is higher-pitched and clean, offering an immersive auditory experience. Depending on personal preference and the setup of the keyboard, both switches can deliver a pleasant sound to enhance the typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Cold Plum switch provides a smooth keystroke that is enjoyable for typing, but specific details on its tactile feel are unknown. The POM T1 (Sunflower) switch, on the other hand, is characterized by its sharp tactility, offering a strong and crisp tactile bump with each keypress. This tactile feedback can enhance the typing experience and provide a satisfying feel for those who enjoy a pronounced tactile response.
Overall, both the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. While the Cold Plum switch is praised for its thocky sound profile and smooth keystrokes, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch stands out for its resonant sound and sharp tactile feedback. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches can provide an enjoyable typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you value a unique typing experience with a thocky sound profile and smooth keystrokes, the Cold Plum may be the best choice for you. However, if you prefer maximum tactility with a sharp tactility and satisfying clean clack, the POM T1 (Sunflower) could be the switch for you. Ultimately, your decision may come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. If you enjoy a higher-pitched and immersive auditory experience, the POM T1 (Sunflower) may be the better option. On the other hand, if you prefer a distinct and enjoyable typing feel with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Cold Plum could be the ideal choice. Consider these factors carefully to determine which switch aligns best with your typing preferences and needs.
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