Outemu Cold Plum vs. Bsun Tomcat (Heavy)

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the Outemu Cold Plum and Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) offer unique experiences for typists and gamers alike, both falling under the category of linear switches. The Outemu Cold Plum stands out due to its fully nylon construction and thocky sound profile, providing a smooth keystroke that enhances the overall typing experience for enthusiasts who appreciate a distinct acoustic feedback paired with tactile satisfaction. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) features Ly stems that deliver an exceptionally smooth typing sensation, accompanied by a resonant sound profile that can appeal to users looking for a more subtle yet engaging auditory experience. While both switches afford a gratifying feel with their linear characteristics, they cater to slightly different preferences in sound and construction quality. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.

By the numbers

Outemu Cold Plum Linear

Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) Linear

$3.10 per 10

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the Outemu Cold Plum and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) in terms of housing materials, a key distinction lies in their top housings. The Cold Plum features a nylon top housing, which is celebrated for its ability to create a deeper, fuller sound profile due to the softness of the plastic. This characteristic allows it to absorb sound more effectively compared to harder plastics. In contrast, the Tomcat (Heavy) utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, generating a sharper, higher-pitched sound. Because polycarbonate is a stiffer material, it produces a clearer and more resonant auditory experience. This difference in sound profile can significantly affect the typing experience, with the Cold Plum leaning towards a more muted and rounded sound, while the Tomcat delivers a crisper acoustic response.

On the other hand, both switches share the same material in their bottom housings: nylon. This commonality means that while the top housing materials differ and influence the overall sound profile significantly, users will experience similar depth and fullness in the typing feel and bottom-out sound due to the nylon bottom in both switches. The nylon construction here supports those characteristics of sound absorption, ensuring that regardless of the top housing, the essential tactile experience remains consistent. Therefore, while the Cold Plum and Tomcat may differ in their top housings, the foundation of the typing experience—anchored by the nylon bottom—remains in sync.

Overall, the differences in top housing materials can create contrasting auditory experiences, yet the shared nylon in the bottom housing bridges some of the gaps, allowing for a consistent tactile feedback across both styles. If a user enjoys the depth of sound that nylon provides in switches and seeks that characteristic in their typing experience, they might find both switches appealing, albeit with different acoustic profiles based on their top housing choices. Thus, while the Cold Plum and Tomcat may serve varied preferences with their unique sound signatures, the nylon bottom housing ensures that both switches still deliver on tactile satisfaction.

Weight

When comparing the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Cold Plum switch has an actuation force of 60 grams and bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a medium-heavy option. In contrast, the Tomcat (Heavy) features a slightly lighter actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 64 grams, which still falls into the medium-heavy category. Consequently, the Tomcat switch is the lighter option of the two, offering a marginally easier push while typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Cold Plum switch provides a more substantial feel due to its higher forces, appealing to users who prefer a firmer typing experience. For those who type for extended periods or engage in prolonged gaming sessions, the Tomcat may offer better comfort, whereas the Cold Plum may be favored by users who appreciate a stronger tactile feedback. Overall, despite both switches being medium-heavy, the Cold Plum is heavier and may influence user preference based on their typing style and comfort needs.

Travel distance

The Outemu Cold Plum linear switch features a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference of 0.3 mm means that the Cold Plum is generally more responsive, appealing to gamers who favor that quick actuation for faster response times. Conversely, the Tomcat (Heavy) offers a deeper feel, which some users may find more satisfying and less abrupt when typing. If you prefer a switch that provides a substantial depth during use, the Tomcat is the better choice, while the Cold Plum is ideal for those who prioritize snappy performance. Therefore, if you are looking for a more responsive experience, the Cold Plum will give you similar results, but it's important to consider the trade-off in tactile feedback that comes with a shorter travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Outemu Cold Plum switch is well-regarded for its thocky sound profile, which lends itself to a satisfying auditory experience while typing. Its fully nylon construction contributes to this distinct sound, making it particularly enjoyable for those who appreciate a more pronounced acoustic feedback. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switch features a resonant sound profile attributed to its unique Ly stems, which also enhances the overall sound experience. While both switches provide a satisfying auditory response, the differences in materials and design result in varied sound characteristics that may appeal to different preferences.

When considering the feel of the switches, the Outemu Cold Plum is noted for its smooth keystroke, creating an enjoyable and cohesive typing experience that caters well to enthusiasts. The frictionless action makes it ideal for extended typing sessions, allowing fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys. Conversely, the Tomcat (Heavy) switch is also designed for a super smooth typing experience, driven by its Ly stems. This smoothness in both switches suggests that users can expect an equally pleasurable and fluid feel when typing, though the specific tactile response may vary slightly between the two due to their individual designs.

In conclusion, both the Outemu Cold Plum and Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switches have their unique strengths, with the Cold Plum offering a thocky sound and the Tomcat providing a resonant one. Both switches deliver smooth keystrokes, ensuring that whichever one you choose, you'll experience an enjoyable typing sensation. Ultimately, personal preference will play a significant role in your decision, as the subjective qualities of sound and feel can lead to different typing experiences with each option.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing between the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch ultimately depends on your preferences for sound and feel in your mechanical keyboard experience. If you prioritize a unique and satisfying sound profile along with a robust keystroke feel, the Cold Plum is an excellent choice. Its thocky sound and medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams create a typing experience that both enthusiasts and casual typists can enjoy, particularly if you appreciate the tactile feedback that comes with a slightly heavier switch. On the other hand, if you lean towards a smoother typing motion paired with a resonant sound, the Tomcat (Heavy) offers a delightful experience thanks to its Ly stems. With a slightly lower bottom out force of 64 grams, it may feel a bit easier to press, making it an attractive option if you're also looking for comfort during prolonged typing sessions. Ultimately, your choice should reflect your personal typing style; whether you prefer the thocky, pronounced feedback of the Cold Plum or the silky smoothness of the Tomcat, either switch can significantly enhance your keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Cold Plum Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more