Outemu Cold Plum vs. KTT Rose
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cold Plum and the KTT Rose switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Cold Plum and KTT Rose switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Cold Plum is favored for its thocky sound profile and smooth keystrokes, providing enthusiasts with a distinct and enjoyable typing experience. On the other hand, the Rose switches stand out for their progressive springs, offering a substantial yet not heavy typing feel with bassy raindrop-like sounds. While the Cold Plum may appeal to those who value a satisfying sound profile and nylon construction, the Rose switches cater to those who prefer a low-pitched, neutral, mild, and polished 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
63.5g
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
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Cold Plum and the KTT Rose, the most notable difference lies in the top housing material. The Cold Plum utilizes a nylon top housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic properties. On the other hand, the Rose features a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This contrast in sound characteristics showcases how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, both the Cold Plum and the Rose use nylon. This classic switch housing material is praised for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile, as the relatively softer plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics. As a result, both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound when it comes to their bottom housing material. Despite having different top housing materials, the shared use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures that typists can still enjoy a consistent sound profile between the two switches.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches plays a crucial role in determining the sound and feel of typing. While the Cold Plum's nylon top housing produces a duller and rounder sound compared to the Rose's polycarbonate top housing, both switches offer a familiar sound experience with their shared use of nylon in the bottom housing. Whether one prefers a deeper and fuller sound profile or a sharper and crisper sound profile, understanding how different housing materials impact typing can help enthusiasts make informed decisions when selecting switches for their keyboards.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch differ in their weight specifications. The Cold Plum has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Rose, which does not specify an actuation force. However, the Rose has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 63.5 grams compared to the Cold Plum's 70 grams. The Cold Plum provides a medium-heavy typing experience, while the Rose falls in the same category. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Rose may be the better option due to its lower bottom out force. Conversely, for those looking for a more substantial push feel, the Cold Plum with its heavier actuation force may be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch is 3.3mm, while the KTT Rose linear switch has a travel distance of 4mm. In this case, the Cold Plum has a shorter travel distance compared to the Rose switch. The Cold Plum's 3.3mm travel distance may provide a faster response time, making it a preferred choice for gamers looking for quick keystrokes. On the other hand, the Rose switch's 4mm travel distance may offer a more satisfying and deliberate keystroke for those who prefer a deeper key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and 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 KTT Rose comes in at $3.01.
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 terms of sound, the Outemu Cold Plum switches are praised for their thocky sound profile and fully nylon construction, providing a unique and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Rose switches are known for their low-pitched sound that offers a bass-heavy and mellow tone, resembling the sound of bassy raindrops while typing. Both switches offer a distinct sound profile that can enhance the typing experience, with the Cold Plum providing a thocky sound and the Rose offering a low-pitched and neutral tone.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Cold Plum switches are appreciated for their smooth keystrokes and satisfying feel, offering enthusiasts a unique typing experience. Conversely, the KTT Rose switches are described as mild and polished, providing a gentle typing experience with a smooth and refined finish that results in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches offer a comfortable typing feel, with the Cold Plum providing a smooth keystroke and the Rose offering a polished and mild typing experience that is approachable to most users.
Overall, when comparing the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, both switches offer unique and enjoyable typing experiences. While the Cold Plum is known for its thocky sound profile and smooth keystrokes, the Rose stands out for its low-pitched and mellow sound, as well as a polished and mild typing feel. Depending on personal preferences in sound and feel, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience for enthusiasts seeking something different and enjoyable. Ultimately, with both switches offering unique qualities, users can expect similar results in terms of an enhanced typing experience regardless of their choice.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Outemu Cold Plum and KTT Rose linear switches, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what you value most in a switch. If you prioritize a unique and distinct typing experience with a thocky sound profile, the Outemu Cold Plum switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with progressive springs that offer a substantial yet not heavy typing experience with a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, the KTT Rose switch could be more suited to your preferences. Consider the bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel of each switch to determine which one aligns best with your preferences and typing style. Ultimately, the decision is yours based on what you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Mentioned in this article
