Outemu Cold Plum vs. Gazzew U4
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cold Plum and the Gazzew U4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch to the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, the Cold Plum stands out for its smooth keystrokes and distinctive thocky sound profile, thanks to its fully nylon construction. Enthusiasts looking for a unique typing experience may lean towards the Cold Plum for its satisfying feel. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 offers a sharp tactile bump and a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation, along with a whisper-quiet sound profile. Those who prefer a more muted and low-pitched typing experience may be drawn to the U4. 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
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Cold Plum and the Gazzew U4 both contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to their softness. The Cold Plum utilizes a nylon top housing while the U4 employs a proprietary Gazzew blend, both of which absorb sound to create a duller and rounder sound. However, the Cold Plum's nylon bottom housing also plays a role in enhancing the switch's sound profile, whereas the U4's proprietary blend is focused on the top housing. This split in housing materials between the two switches may result in slightly different sound characteristics during typing.
In terms of construction, the Cold Plum features nylon top and bottom housings, providing a consistent feel and sound throughout the switch. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 utilizes a unique blend for both top and bottom housings, known as "boba plastic," which aims to deliver a richer and deeper sound profile. While both switches aim for a similar result in sound quality, the different materials used in their housings may lead to subtle differences in typing experience. The Cold Plum's all-nylon construction may offer a more uniform sound, while the U4's blend could provide a more nuanced typing feel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Cold Plum and the Gazzew U4 may come down to personal preference in terms of sound and typing experience. The Cold Plum's nylon housing materials create a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the U4's proprietary Gazzew blend aims for a rich and deep sound. Both switches offer soft housing materials that absorb sound effectively, resulting in a quieter and more pleasant typing experience. Whether one prefers the consistency of the Cold Plum's nylon construction or the unique blend of the Gazzew U4, both switches have their own strengths in delivering a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
The Outemu Cold Plum linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In comparison, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, which places it in the medium category. This means that the U4 requires less force to initiate a keystroke compared to the Cold Plum, but both switches provide a similar level of resistance when fully pressed down. The lighter actuation force of the U4 may make it more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming, while the heavier Cold Plum switch could appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch is 3.3 mm, while the Gazzew U4 tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular, especially among gamers seeking faster response times. The Cold Plum's 3.3 mm travel distance may provide a slightly quicker key press compared to the U4's 3.6 mm travel distance. However, for those who prefer a more pronounced key press or a deeper feel, the U4 with its longer travel distance may be the preferable option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and response time.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Cold Plum comes in at $3.10, whereas the Gazzew U4 comes in at $6.50.
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 offers a distinct thocky sound profile due to its fully nylon construction, providing a satisfying typing experience for enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is known for its muted and low-pitched sound, offering a whisper-quiet typing experience that is ideal for those who prefer a more subtle sound profile. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the Cold Plum providing a more noticeable typing noise while the U4 offers a quieter and more subdued typing experience.
Moving on to feel, the Cold Plum switch is known for its smooth keystrokes, but specific tactile feedback details are unknown. In comparison, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch offers a sharp tactile bump that provides high feedback intensity, allowing users to feel each keypress distinctly. The U4 switch also offers a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation, enhancing the overall typing experience with a combination of style and subtlety. Both switches provide unique tactile characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the Cold Plum offering a smoother keystroke experience and the U4 providing a more pronounced tactile bump for tactile feedback enthusiasts.
In conclusion, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in sound and feel for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Cold Plum provides a thocky sound profile and smooth keystrokes, while the U4 offers a muted sound profile with a sharp tactile bump for enhanced feedback. Whether you prefer a more distinctive typing noise or a quieter typing experience with pronounced tactile feedback, both switches offer something special for mechanical keyboard users seeking a unique and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a smooth keystroke, thocky sound profile, and medium-heavy bottom out force, the Cold Plum may be the choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, a plush bottom-out sensation, and a quieter sound profile, the U4 may be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and the specific characteristics that matter most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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