Outemu Cold Plum vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cold Plum and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the decision often comes down to the type of typing experience you are looking for. The Outemu Cold Plum, a linear switch, is renowned for its smooth keystroke and unique thocky sound profile, thanks to its fully nylon construction. Ideal for enthusiasts seeking an enjoyable typing feel, this switch offers a distinct experience that sets it apart. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility, provides a lower actuation and bottom-out force for a comfortable typing experience. With a deep thocky sound profile, this switch offers an approachable level of tactility that many users appreciate. Both switches have their own strengths and reasons why you may want to choose them, 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
48g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
No
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
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Cold Plum and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, it is evident that the main difference lies in the use of nylon for the Cold Plum and polycarbonate for the Shadow (Ink). Nylon is highlighted for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, polycarbonate is praised for producing a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer composition. The choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of a switch, catering to different preferences in sound aesthetics.
While the Cold Plum features a nylon top and bottom housing, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring opts for polycarbonate in both components. This difference in housing materials results in distinct sound profiles for each switch. The nylon bottom housing of the Cold Plum contributes to a duller and rounder sound, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) produces a clearer and resonant sound. Similarly, the nylon top housing of the Cold Plum produces a deeper sound when pressing down on a key, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Shadow (Ink) creates a sharper sound upon key release.
Overall, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate housing materials for switches ultimately depends on individual preferences for sound profiles. Both materials have their unique characteristics that cater to different sound aesthetics, with nylon offering a deeper and fuller sound compared to the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate. Whether one prefers a duller and rounder sound or a clearer and resonant sound, the housing material plays a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience with these switches.
Weight
The Outemu Cold Plum linear switch has a higher actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, which has an actuation force of 48 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Cold Plum switch also requires more force at 70 grams, while the Shadow (Ink) switch bottoms out at 55 grams. This makes the Cold Plum switch heavier overall, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) switch is lighter, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions where lighter actuation may be preferred. Both switches offer different levels of force, catering to individual preferences and typing styles.
Travel distance
The Outemu Cold Plum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Cold Plum is the shorter option, and the Shadow (Ink) is the longer option. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Cold Plum with its shorter travel distance, while those looking for a more substantial key press may lean towards the Shadow (Ink) with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference for travel distance and key press experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring for $3.57.
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 linear switch is known for its thocky sound profile, providing a satisfying typing experience for those who enjoy a distinct auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch also carries a deep and thocky sound profile, ensuring a pleasant typing sound that adds to the overall tactile experience. Both switches offer a unique sound signature that can enhance the typing experience for users who appreciate auditory feedback while typing.
In terms of feel, the Cold Plum switch offers a smooth keystroke that is enjoyable for enthusiasts seeking a satisfying typing feel. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch provides a bouncy sensation, offering a spring-like and elastic feedback when typing. This tactile response can add a layer of enjoyment to the typing experience, particularly for users who prefer a livelier feel when typing on their keyboards.
Overall, both the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch have their unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Cold Plum switch offers a smooth keystroke and a thocky sound profile, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch provides a bouncy feel and a deep sound profile. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between these two switches to enhance their typing experience with a mechanical keyboard. Ultimately, selecting either of these switches will result in a satisfactory typing experience, ensuring that users will get similar results regardless of their choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you value a medium-heavy bottom out force, a smooth keystroke, and a thocky sound profile, the Cold Plum is a great choice for a unique and enjoyable typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force, approachable tactility, and a deep thocky sound profile, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is recommended. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for typing feel and sound profile to ensure a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
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