Outemu Cold Plum vs. HMX SU
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cold Plum and the HMX SU switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the right mechanical keyboard switch, the choice often boils down to personal preference, and two popular options that stand out in the linear switch category are the Outemu Cold Plum and the HMX SU. The Cold Plum switch is celebrated for its unique thocky sound profile and fully nylon construction, offering enthusiasts a smooth keystroke coupled with a satisfying auditory experience that enhances typing enjoyment. Its design caters to users who appreciate a tactile feedback with a deep resonance. On the other hand, the HMX SU switch boasts a durable PA12 housing and a T5 stem, providing a subtle yet relatively deep sound profile that can appeal to those who prefer a quieter typing experience without sacrificing key smoothness. Both switches cater to different aesthetics and auditory preferences, making them worthwhile considerations for anyone seeking to enhance their 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
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
T5
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The comparison of the housing materials of the Outemu Cold Plum and the HMX SU reveals a striking similarity, as both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This choice of material leads to a consistent acoustic profile characterized by a deeper and fuller sound when typing. The inherent properties of nylon, being a softer plastic, allow for improved sound absorption, which results in a duller and rounder auditory experience. This similarity in materials promises a comparable typing experience, providing users of either switch with an enhanced sense of satisfaction and auditory pleasure as they engage with their keyboards.
When examining the impact of the housing materials on sound characteristics and typing feedback, the dual nylon composition of both the Cold Plum and HMX SU indicates that users can expect consistent results. Since both the top and bottom housings are made from nylon, the overall sound profile and tactile sensation when pressing or releasing the keys will mirror each other. Users can appreciate the balanced qualities of the switches, as the softer nylon absorbs sound during both the bottoming out and the releasing phases, reducing the clack often associated with harder plastic housings. Thus, whether one chooses the Cold Plum or the HMX SU, the acoustic and tactile experiences will remain harmonized, enhancing the overall gaming or typing enjoyment.
Despite the identical housing materials, slight differences in construction and design elements could still lead to nuanced differences in feel and sound that might be perceived by discerning users. If the internal mechanics or switch design differ, these factors can alter how the nylon housing materials dynamically respond during usage. For instance, how each switch’s design influences the movement of internal components or the tactile feedback during activation could contribute to contrasting user experiences, even when the base material remains the same. Therefore, while the shared nylon material promises a similar quality of sound and feel, the overall experience may still diverge based on design specificity and individual preferences.
Weight
The Outemu Cold Plum linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch exhibit distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces, which significantly influence their typing experience. The Cold Plum has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, putting it in the medium-heavy category. This weightier feedback can be appealing for users who prefer a more substantial typing experience, making it suitable for those who enjoy a tactile response while typing or gaming. In contrast, the HMX SU linear switch is lighter, featuring an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, which caters to users seeking comfort during extended use, whether for typing at work or engaging in long gaming sessions. Given these differences, users who favor a lighter switch may find the SU more to their liking, while those who prefer a heavier feel might gravitate towards the Cold Plum.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch, there is a noticeable difference between the two. The Cold Plum has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the SU offers a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Cold Plum is the shorter switch, providing a more rapid response for those who favor speed and quicker actuation, which is often preferred by gamers. In contrast, the SU's longer travel distance may appeal to users who appreciate a more pronounced depth in their key presses, offering a different tactile experience. Thus, while both switches cater to different preferences, the Cold Plum stands out for those seeking a snappier feel, whereas the SU caters to those who enjoy a more substantial key press.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX SU has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the SU for $3.29.
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 switches are characterized by a thocky sound profile that provides a pleasing auditory feedback during typing. The fully nylon construction contributes to a unique acoustics that many enthusiasts find satisfying and enjoyable. In contrast, the HMX SU switches produce a subtle and relatively deep sound profile thanks to their PA12 housing and T5 stem design. While both switches offer distinct sound qualities, personal preference will play a significant role in which switch an individual finds more pleasing, and the overall sound experience can also be influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the Cold Plum switches are known for their smooth keystroke, delivering a consistent and enjoyable typing experience that many typists appreciate. The satisfaction derived from the Cold Plum's action makes it ideal for those who prioritize a smooth linear response while typing or gaming. Similarly, the feel of the HMX SU switches is likely designed to be smooth, but specific tactile impressions and responsiveness haven’t been expressly detailed in the provided information. Therefore, while we can expect both switches to deliver a satisfying linear feel, the nuances may differ based on personal tactile preferences.
In conclusion, the Outemu Cold Plum and HMX SU linear switches both offer unique auditory and tactile experiences suitable for different types of users. The Cold Plum's thocky sound and smooth feel may appeal to those looking for a distinctly enjoyable typing experience, while the HMX SU's subtle deep sound could attract users who prefer a more understated auditory element. Both switches promise smooth keystrokes, but the exact tactile feedback of the SU remains undefined. Ultimately, your preference may vary based on individual taste, but both switches can deliver satisfying performance in their own right.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch, your choice will largely depend on your personal typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you favor a firmer feel while typing and enjoy a thocky sound profile, the Cold Plum's medium-heavy bottom-out force of 70 grams will likely suit you well, providing a satisfying and distinct experience for both typing and gaming. This is particularly advantageous if you appreciate a tactile feedback sensation as you type, as the Cold Plum is designed to deliver that unique feel thanks to its fully nylon construction. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the HMX SU with its 50-gram bottom-out force will be your go-to. Its relatively deep yet subtle sound profile offers a different auditory experience that might resonate with those who enjoy a softer keystroke without sacrificing performance. Ultimately, your choice hinges on whether you lean towards a heavier, more pronounced typing experience or a lighter, more effortless touch—both switches offer quality features, so consider what best aligns with your typing style and sound preference before making your final decision.
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