Outemu Cold Plum vs. HC Studio Roselle
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cold Plum and the HC Studio Roselle switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Outemu Cold Plum and HC Studio Roselle mechanical keyboard switches, there are some key differences to consider. The Cold Plum is renowned for its thocky sound profile and fully nylon construction, providing a smooth keystroke and satisfying sound that appeals to enthusiasts seeking a distinct typing experience. On the other hand, the Roselle stands out for its inherent material blend that delivers an exceptionally smooth and ethereal typing sensation, along with a subtle low-pitched sound signature. While the Cold Plum offers a unique typing feel, the Roselle provides a different level of smoothness and sound quality. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Nylon
Stem material
Y3
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
20.5mm lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Cold Plum and the HC Studio Roselle switches both offer unique qualities that contribute to the sound and feel of typing. The Cold Plum features a nylon top housing, which creates a deep and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Roselle's POM top housing produces a pleasing and unique sound that is deeper and relatively more muted. Both housing materials contribute to a distinct typing experience, with Nylon providing a rounder sound profile and POM offering a deeper tone.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Cold Plum and Roselle switches continue to provide different attributes. The Cold Plum utilizes a nylon bottom housing that adds to the deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its ability to absorb more sound with its softer plastic composition. On the other hand, the Roselle's POM bottom housing contributes to a unique sound that is deep and relatively more muted. Despite the differences in bottom housing materials, both switches maintain a similar typing experience with their emphasis on sound depth and fullness.
Overall, the housing materials of the Outemu Cold Plum and the HC Studio Roselle switches play a crucial role in influencing the overall typing experience. While the Cold Plum emphasizes a rounder and fuller sound profile with its nylon housing, the Roselle offers a unique and pleasing sound that is relatively more muted with its POM housing. Despite these differences, both switches deliver a satisfying typing experience with distinct qualities attributed to their housing materials. Whether it's the impact on bottom-out sound and feel or the sound when releasing a key, the housing materials shape the overall sound profile of each switch in their own way.
Weight
The Outemu Cold Plum linear switch is heavier compared to the HC Studio Roselle linear switch in terms of both actuation force and bottom out force. The Cold Plum requires 60 grams of force to actuate and 70 grams to bottom out, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Roselle only needs 45 grams to actuate and 52 grams to bottom out, classifying it as a medium-light switch. The Cold Plum provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces, which some users may prefer for a more tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Roselle's lighter forces may be more suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch or need to type for extended periods without fatigue. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Outemu Cold Plum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3mm, while the HC Studio Roselle linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6mm. In this case, the Roselle has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Cold Plum. Both switches fall within the category of shorter travel distances which are favored by gamers for faster response times. The Cold Plum's 3.3mm travel distance provides a good balance between responsiveness and depth, making it a popular choice for those who want a tactile feel without sacrificing speed. On the other hand, the Roselle's 3.6mm travel distance offers a bit more depth, which may be preferred by those who like a more pronounced key press sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HC Studio Roselle has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Roselle for $4.70.
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 terms of sound, the Outemu Cold Plum switch provides a thocky sound profile due to its fully nylon construction, offering a satisfying and unique typing experience. On the other hand, the HC Studio Roselle switch is described as having a low-pitched sound signature, with a subtle and bassy tone that adds to the typing experience. Depending on personal preference, some users may prefer the deeper and richer sound of the Roselle, while others may enjoy the distinct thock of the Cold Plum. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is subjective and can also be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard's layout and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Cold Plum switch is known for its smooth keystrokes, providing enthusiasts with a pleasant typing sensation. In comparison, the HC Studio Roselle switch is characterized as frictionless, offering an incredibly smooth and effortless typing experience. The Roselle's mild typing feel falls into a safe middle-ground zone, making it approachable to most users. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience, but the Roselle's unique smoothness may appeal to those seeking a different tactile sensation.
Considering all the available information, the Outemu Cold Plum switch and HC Studio Roselle switch each offer distinctive qualities that cater to different preferences. The Cold Plum excels in providing a thocky sound profile and smooth keystrokes, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Roselle stands out with its low-pitched sound signature and frictionless feel, offering a unique typing experience that may appeal to those looking for something different. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences in sound, feel, and overall typing experience. Users can expect satisfying and enjoyable results from both switches, albeit with slightly different characteristics.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch and the HC Studio Roselle linear switch, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you prioritize a unique typing experience with a thocky sound profile and medium-heavy bottom out force, the Cold Plum may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you value an impossibly smooth and ethereally wispy typing sensation with a lower bottom out force, the Roselle might be more fitting. Additionally, take into account the sound and feel characteristics of each switch to determine which one aligns best with your preferences. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences and typing style.
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