Outemu Cold Plum vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cold Plum and the SP-Star RedBlue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Cold Plum and SP-Star RedBlue stand out as enticing options for enthusiasts seeking a unique typing experience. The Cold Plum is praised for its thocky sound profile and fully nylon construction, offering a smooth keystroke and satisfying sound. On the other hand, the RedBlue linear switches are known for their medium-light typing experience and relatively low-pitched sound profile. Both switches have their own distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Cold Plum provides a more polished and thocky typing feel, while the RedBlue offers a mild and neutral experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preferences, but 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
57g
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
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Outemu Cold Plum features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In comparison, the SP-Star RedBlue utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances clarity and resonance in the sound produced. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for switches with RGB lighting, while nylon offers a classic feel and sound experience.
Both the Cold Plum and the RedBlue have nylon bottom housings, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile similar to their respective top housings. The softer nature of nylon absorbs sound effectively, contributing to a rounder and duller sound experience. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing in the RedBlue complements the top housing by creating a sharper and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances resonance and clarity in the sound produced. Aesthetically, the clear nature of polycarbonate is ideal for showcasing RGB lighting effects in the RedBlue switch.
When comparing the two switches, the impact of each housing material on sound and feel is significant. The qualities of the bottom housing are more pronounced during key presses, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. In contrast, the top housing plays a crucial role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Whether nylon or polycarbonate, the choice of housing material influences the overall sound profile and tactile experience of the switch. By understanding the unique qualities of each material, enthusiasts can tailor their switch selection based on personal preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, it is clear that they offer different experiences to users. The Cold Plum switch 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 RedBlue switch has an unknown actuation force but a lighter bottom out force of 57 grams, making it a medium-light option. Those who prefer a lighter feel may find the RedBlue switch more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those looking for a more substantial push may prefer the Cold Plum switch. Overall, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of typing experience and force required for key presses.
Travel distance
The Outemu Cold Plum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the RedBlue has a longer travel distance compared to the Cold Plum. Generally, a shorter travel distance allows for faster response times, which is preferred by gamers looking for quick inputs. On the other hand, a longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying key press for those who enjoy a bit more depth in their typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on whether you prioritize speed and quick responses or a more tactile typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
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 Outemu Cold Plum switch is known for its thocky sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying tone when keys are pressed. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue switch offers a low-pitched sound, which is more bass-heavy and mellow compared to higher-pitched switches. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Cold Plum being more thocky and the RedBlue having a lower-pitched tone.
In terms of feel, the Cold Plum switch is recognized for its smooth keystroke and satisfying typing experience. The SP-Star RedBlue switch, on the other hand, is praised for its mild and polished feel, offering a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches fall within the middle ground in terms of typing experience, with the Cold Plum being smooth and satisfying, and the RedBlue providing a polished and gentle feel.
Overall, both the Outemu Cold Plum and SP-Star RedBlue switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences. While the Cold Plum is known for its thocky sound and smooth keystroke, the RedBlue provides a low-pitched sound and a polished typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in sound and typing feel. Whether you choose the Cold Plum or RedBlue switch, you can expect a quality typing experience that meets your needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, consider your preference for typing force and sound profile. If you prefer a medium-heavy typing force and a thocky sound profile, the Cold Plum switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light typing force and a low-pitched, neutral sound profile, the RedBlue switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the typing experience you are seeking.
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