Outemu Cold Plum vs. Durock White Lotus
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cold Plum and the Durock White Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Cold Plum and Durock White Lotus offer unique typing experiences for enthusiasts. The Cold Plum switch is known for its thocky sound profile and smooth keystrokes, providing a distinct and enjoyable typing feel. On the other hand, the White Lotus switch offers a delicate tactility that strikes the perfect balance, making it ideal for work and extended typing sessions without overwhelming the user. The White Lotus also features vibrant RGB lighting effects, adding a captivating glow to your keyboard setup. Each switch has its own strengths and qualities that appeal to different preferences and needs. 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
46g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
56g
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
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Housing materials
Both the Outemu Cold Plum and the Durock White Lotus switches feature unique housing materials that contribute to their overall performance. The Cold Plum utilizes a nylon top housing, which is known for its ability to absorb sound and create a deeper, fuller sound profile. This results in a more muted and rounder sound when typing on the switch. In comparison, the White Lotus incorporates a modified PC and UPE blend top housing, which offers a premium feel and unique typing experience. While both housings aim to enhance the sound and feel of the switch, their different materials may lead to distinct typing experiences.
While the bottom housing of both the Cold Plum and White Lotus switches is made of nylon, which offers the benefits of sound absorption and a deeper sound profile, the top housing differs in material. The Cold Plum features a nylon top housing, whereas the White Lotus utilizes a modified PC and UPE blend top housing. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. This means that the unique material composition of each switch's housing can lead to differences in typing feel and sound profile.
In terms of overall performance, both the Outemu Cold Plum and the Durock White Lotus switches offer a high-quality typing experience due to their premium housing materials. While the Cold Plum's nylon housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, the White Lotus's modified PC and UPE blend housing offers a unique typing feel. Despite the differences in their top housing materials, both switches aim to enhance the typing experience with their sound-absorbing properties and premium feel. In the end, users can expect similar results in sound and feel with these switches, but the choice between them may come down to personal preference for the specific typing experience they desire.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, it is evident that the Cold Plum is the heavier option, with an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams. On the other hand, the White Lotus is the lighter option, with an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 56 grams. The Cold Plum provides a medium-heavy typing experience, catering to those who prefer a more substantial push feel, while the White Lotus offers a medium-light typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended periods of typing or gaming. Both switches offer a similar overall feel, with the actuation and bottom out forces working harmoniously to provide a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing weight and feel.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, it is clear that the Cold Plum has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the White Lotus has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Cold Plum's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the White Lotus's longer travel distance may be preferred by those seeking a more substantial key press experience. Both switches offer unique characteristics, with the Cold Plum providing a quicker activation and the White Lotus offering a more deliberate key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock White Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the White Lotus for $4.57.
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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Cold Plum switches are known for their thocky sound profile, providing a unique and satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus switches offer a low-pitched and neutral sound, creating a more bass-heavy and mellow tone without being overpowering. Both switches provide a pleasant sound that can be further enhanced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Cold Plum switches offer a smooth keystroke and a unique typing feel, while the Durock White Lotus switches are described as easy-to-press, mild, and subtle. The White Lotus switches provide a gentle resistance during key presses, requiring minimal force to activate, making typing effortless and comfortable. In contrast, the Cold Plum switches deliver a distinct typing experience that is smooth and satisfying. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, with the White Lotus switches emphasizing ease of use and the Cold Plum switches providing a unique feel.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch offer different sound profiles and typing experiences, both switches excel in providing a pleasant and enjoyable typing feel. Whether you prefer a thocky sound with a smooth keystroke or a low-pitched sound with an easy-to-press feel, these switches cater to different preferences while still delivering a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel, knowing that both options will provide a high-quality typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between Outemu Cold Plum linear switches and Durock White Lotus tactile switches, consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a distinct and satisfying thocky sound with medium-heavy bottom out force, then the Cold Plum switches may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light tactile switch with a delicate tactility, easy-to-press feel, and lower bottom out force, the White Lotus switches would be a great fit. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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