Outemu Cold Plum vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cold Plum and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Outemu Cold Plum and the Outemu Red Panda are two popular options to consider. The Cold Plum switch is a linear switch that offers a smooth keystroke and a thocky sound profile, thanks to its fully nylon construction. This makes it an excellent choice for enthusiasts looking for a unique and enjoyable typing experience. On the other hand, the Red Panda switch is a tactile switch that provides a light-medium amount of tactility, along with a bassier bottom-out sound and a clackier top-out sound. This switch is also known for its thocky feel and mild tactility. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to 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
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
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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 main difference between the Outemu Cold Plum and the Outemu Red Panda lies in their top housing materials. The Cold Plum features a nylon top housing, which absorbs more sound due to its softer plastic composition, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. In contrast, the Red Panda utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that is stiffer and produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound. The translucent nature of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for use with RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic of the switch.
On the other hand, both the Cold Plum and the Red Panda share the same nylon bottom housing material. This means that typing on switches with either of these switches will elicit a similar deep and full sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and more rounded sound compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housings. Therefore, users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel when comparing the two switches based on their bottom housing materials.
Overall, the difference in top housing materials between the Outemu Cold Plum and Outemu Red Panda results in contrasting sound profiles. The Cold Plum's nylon top housing creates a duller and rounder sound, while the Red Panda's polycarbonate top housing produces a clearer and more resonant sound. However, both switches offer a similar typing experience due to their shared nylon bottom housing, which absorbs sound and contributes to a deep and full sound profile. Whether the switch uses nylon or polycarbonate in its top housing, the overall typing experience is likely to be satisfying for users who appreciate different sound characteristics.
Weight
The Outemu Cold Plum linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 50 grams. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Cold Plum requiring 70 grams and the Red Panda requiring 60 grams for bottoming out. This means that while the Cold Plum provides a slightly heavier initial push for keystrokes, both switches will ultimately require a similar amount of force when fully pressed down. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Red Panda may be the better option, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance may lean towards the Cold Plum for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch have the same travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that when pressing down on the key, you will feel the same distance traveled for both switches. The similarity in travel distance indicates that users can expect similar typing experiences in terms of key travel for both switches. This consistency in key travel distance ensures that users will have a consistent typing experience regardless of which switch they choose to use. Overall, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch offer the same travel distance, providing users with a consistent typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Cold Plum comes in at $3.10, whereas the Outemu Red Panda comes in at $3.40.
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 comparing the sound of the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, the Cold Plum is known for its thocky sound profile, delivering a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Red Panda offers a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound and a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound. Both switches provide unique auditory experiences, with the Cold Plum offering a smoother and more satisfying sound, while the Red Panda provides a mix of bassy and clacky tones.
In terms of feel, the Cold Plum is recognized for its smooth keystrokes, providing a distinct and enjoyable typing experience for enthusiasts. Conversely, the Red Panda offers a light to medium amount of tactility, providing a gentle typing experience with a mix of characteristics that fall in a safe, middle-ground zone. Both switches offer different levels of tactile feedback, with the Cold Plum focusing on smoothness and the Red Panda offering a mild tactile feel suitable for a wide range of typists.
Overall, while the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch provide different sound and feel experiences, they both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer a thocky sound profile with smooth keystrokes or a mix of bassy and clacky tones with gentle tactility, both switches will provide a satisfying typing experience. Additionally, factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps can further influence the sound and feel of these switches, ensuring that you can achieve similar results based on your preferences and setup.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force and sound profile. If you prefer a slightly heavier switch with a smooth keystroke and thocky sound, the Cold Plum may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a lighter switch with a light-medium amount of tactility and a bassier, raindrop-like sound, the Red Panda could be more to your liking. Ultimately, the Cold Plum and Red Panda offer distinctive typing experiences, so choose based on your personal preferences for force, sound, and feel.
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