Outemu Cold Plum vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cold Plum and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing and contrasting the Outemu Cold Plum and the Gateron Type A mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to note that both switches offer a unique typing experience that caters to different preferences. The Cold Plum is known for its thocky sound profile and fully nylon construction, providing a smooth keystroke and satisfying sound that appeals to enthusiasts looking for a distinct typing feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A from Sillyworks' "Project Rehash" offers a medium-weight switch with innovative travel distances and factory lubing techniques, resulting in a sound signature leaning towards the deeper side of the spectrum. While the Cold Plum excels in providing an enjoyable typing experience, the Type A appeals to those seeking a compromise between weight and sound. 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
50g
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
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Nylon
Stem material
POM
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
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Cold Plum and the Gateron Type A switches, it is evident that both utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This shared material means that typing on either switch will result in a similar deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's sound-absorbing properties. Both switches create a duller and rounder sound compared to switches made from harder plastics, giving a more satisfying typing experience overall.
Despite their similarities in housing material, the Cold Plum and Type A switches may differ in how the qualities of nylon are distributed between their top and bottom housings. The bottom housing of a switch typically has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. This means that the two switches may have subtle differences in the typing experience, depending on how the nylon material is utilized in each housing.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Cold Plum and the Gateron Type A switches may come down to personal preference in terms of how the nylon housing material interacts with the typing experience. Both switches offer a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to nylon's sound-absorbing qualities. Whether one prefers a particular bottom-out feel or sound when releasing a key may be the deciding factor in choosing between these two switches, as their housing materials are the same but may impact the typing experience differently.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch to the Gateron Type A linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, we can see some differences. The Outemu Cold Plum has a higher actuation force of 60 grams and a higher bottom out force of 70 grams, making it medium-heavy. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A has a lower actuation force of 50 grams and a lower bottom out force of 55 grams, making it medium-light. This means that the Cold Plum switch requires a bit more force to register a key press and to bottom out compared to the Type A switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Gateron Type A would be the better choice, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatiguing the fingers. However, for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel with a stronger push, the Outemu Cold Plum would be the preferred option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, it is clear that the Cold Plum has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm compared to the Type A's 4 mm. The Cold Plum's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Type A's longer travel distance might be preferred by those looking for a more substantial key press. Both switches fall within the traditional range of travel distances, with the Cold Plum being slightly shorter and the Type A falling closer to the standard 4 mm distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key press depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Cold Plum comes in at $3.10, whereas the Gateron Type A comes in at $4.70.
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
The Outemu Cold Plum switch is known for its thocky sound profile thanks to its fully nylon construction, providing a satisfying typing experience for enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A switch offers a sound signature that leans towards the deeper side of the spectrum, making it a unique option for those seeking a medium-weight switch with a distinctive sound. Depending on personal preference, the Cold Plum may offer a more pronounced sound experience, while the Type A provides a more subdued and dampened sound when pressed.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the specific details for the Cold Plum and Type A are unknown. However, considering the reputation of Outemu switches for their smooth keystrokes and the innovative design of the Gateron Type A, it can be assumed that both switches offer a satisfying tactile experience. With the Cold Plum known for its distinct typing feel and the Type A designed as an ideal compromise for various preferences, newcomers may find both options comfortable and enjoyable to type on.
In conclusion, the Outemu Cold Plum and Gateron Type A switches each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and potentially feel. The Cold Plum stands out for its thocky sound profile and smooth keystrokes, while the Type A provides a deeper sound signature and innovative factory lubing techniques. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches can offer a satisfying typing experience for newcomers to the mechanical keyboard world. Ultimately, trying out both switches on different keyboard setups with varying keycaps may provide a better understanding of which option suits your typing style best.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, consider the bottom out force that best suits your typing preferences. If you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a distinct thocky sound and smooth keystrokes, the Cold Plum may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light switch with a deeper sound profile and factory lubing for a smoother typing experience, the Gateron Type A could be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize typing feel or sound signature in your mechanical keyboard setup.
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