Outemu Cold Plum vs. Sarokeys Purple Sakura
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cold Plum and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options stand out - the Outemu Cold Plum and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura. The Cold Plum switch is a linear switch known for its thocky sound profile and smooth keystrokes due to its fully nylon construction, making it a favorite among enthusiasts seeking a distinct typing experience. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura switch is a tactile switch praised for its snappy response and decadently buttery downstroke, striking a delicate balance of tactility that is pronounced yet not overpowering. While the Cold Plum offers a satisfying sound and unique typing feel, the Purple Sakura provides a mild and neutral sound signature with a satisfying tactile feedback. 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
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
Both the Outemu Cold Plum and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches feature nylon top housings, which are known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to their softer plastic that absorbs more sound. However, the Purple Sakura switch stands out with its polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This difference in material results in a more clear and resonant sound with the Purple Sakura switch compared to the Cold Plum switch. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate top housing in the Purple Sakura switch allows for RGB lighting effects, adding a visually appealing element to the switch.
In terms of their bottom housings, both the Cold Plum and Purple Sakura switches utilize nylon material, which again contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The similarity in the bottom housing material results in a consistent sound experience when typing on both switches. However, the difference in the top housing material between the two switches means that the overall sound profile may vary, with the Cold Plum switch likely producing a duller and rounder sound while the Purple Sakura switch offering a sharper and clearer sound. This difference in top housing material plays a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience and sound feedback of each switch.
Overall, the choice of housing material in a switch, whether it be nylon or polycarbonate, greatly influences the sound profile and tactile feedback of the switch. While both the Outemu Cold Plum and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura switches use nylon bottom housings for a consistent typing experience, the difference in their top housing materials results in distinct sound profiles. The Cold Plum switch offers a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon top housing, while the Purple Sakura switch provides a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate top housing. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel when typing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, there are noticeable differences to consider. The Cold Plum has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. In contrast, the Purple Sakura features a lighter actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, offering a medium typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Purple Sakura for longer typing sessions, while individuals seeking a stronger and more substantial typing feel may opt for the Cold Plum. In situations where the actuation and bottom out forces are the same, users can expect similar results in terms of typing experience and feedback. Ultimately, the choice between a lighter or heavier switch will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Outemu Cold Plum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, slightly longer than the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch which has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming more popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. The slight difference in travel distance between the two switches may not be noticeable to most users, as both are relatively short compared to traditional 4.0 mm travel distances. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference for a slightly shorter or slightly longer travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Sarokeys Purple Sakura has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Sakura for $3.15.
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
In conclusion, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Cold Plum provides a thocky sound profile and smooth keystrokes, making it a great choice for enthusiasts seeking a distinct typing experience. On the other hand, the Purple Sakura offers a buttery downstroke and a snappy response, striking a delicate balance of tactility without being overpowering. While the sound of the Cold Plum may be more pronounced and distinctive compared to the neutral sound of the Purple Sakura, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing feel that will appeal to a wide range of mechanical keyboard users. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch and the Sarokeys Purple Sakura tactile switch, you should consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a unique typing feel with a thocky sound profile and medium-heavy bottom out force, the Cold Plum switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a snappy response with a buttery downstroke and medium bottom out force, the Purple Sakura switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for sound, feel, and typing style. Happy typing!
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