Outemu Cold Plum vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cold Plum and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch to the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch, both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Cold Plum is celebrated for its thocky sound profile and fully nylon construction, providing a smooth keystroke and satisfying sound for enthusiasts looking for a distinct typing experience. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear stands out for its innovative design that offers a whisper-quiet topping-out sound while maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound. Its silky smooth type feel is complemented by a range of descriptors such as subdued, neutral, mild, snappy, buttery, and polished. Both switches have their own strengths and appeals, making them suitable for different user 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The key difference between the housing materials of the Outemu Cold Plum and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear lies in the top housing material. The Cold Plum features a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Semi-Silent Linear utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While both materials are classic switch housing options, the Nylon in the Cold Plum creates a duller and rounder sound, while the polycarbonate in the Semi-Silent Linear offers a more clear and resonant sound.
On the other hand, the bottom housing material is consistent between the two switches, as both the Cold Plum and Semi-Silent Linear use nylon for their bottom housings. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches, as the relatively softer plastic of the nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This consistency in bottom housing material highlights the importance of the bottom housing in influencing the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches, as it has a significant impact on the overall typing experience.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Cold Plum and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile. Those who prefer a deeper and fuller sound may lean towards the Cold Plum with its nylon top and bottom housings, while those who prefer a sharper and crisper sound may prefer the Semi-Silent Linear with its polycarbonate top housing. Both switches offer similar results in terms of typing experience, but the different top housing materials create distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch are quite different. The Cold Plum has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Semi-Silent Linear's unknown actuation force. In terms of bottom out force, the Cold Plum requires 70 grams of force, which is also heavier than the Semi-Silent Linear's 62 grams. The Cold Plum offers a more substantial typing experience with its medium-heavy forces, while the Semi-Silent Linear provides a medium feel. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Semi-Silent Linear for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those who prefer a stronger push may opt for the Cold Plum for a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer different weight characteristics, catering to different preferences in typing.
Travel distance
The Outemu Cold Plum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. In this case, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch has a longer travel distance compared to the Outemu Cold Plum switch. When it comes to typing or gaming preferences, a shorter travel distance is often favored by gamers for quicker response times, while a longer travel distance may offer a more substantial feel to those who prefer it. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0mm, making them suitable choices for those seeking a more responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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 is best known for its thocky sound profile, delivering a satisfying and distinct typing experience. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a more subdued sound, creating a whisper-quiet topping-out noise while maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound. The choice between the two would depend on personal preference, with the Cold Plum offering a more pronounced and enjoyable typing sound, while the Semi-Silent Linear provides a more subtle and quiet typing experience.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Outemu Cold Plum switch is known for its smooth keystroke, providing a satisfying typing feel. In contrast, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch is described as having a mild feel, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Additionally, the Semi-Silent Linear switch is noted for being snappy and buttery, providing a responsive and fluid typing sensation.
Taking into consideration the sound and feel qualities of the Outemu Cold Plum and Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches, it is clear that they offer different experiences to users. The Cold Plum switch provides a thocky sound profile and smooth keystroke, making it a great choice for those seeking a distinct and enjoyable typing experience. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a subdued sound and gentle feel, catering to users who prefer a more quiet and smooth typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Outemu Cold Plum and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches, you should consider the characteristics that matter most to you. If you prioritize a distinct typing experience with a thocky sound profile and medium-heavy bottom out force, the Outemu Cold Plum switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter typing experience with a silky smooth feel and a slightly lighter bottom out force, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch would be a great option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
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