Outemu Cold Plum vs. Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cold Plum and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Cold Plum and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Cold Plum is praised for its thocky sound profile and fully nylon construction, providing a smooth keystroke and satisfying sound that appeals to enthusiasts seeking a distinct typing feel. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear stands out for its smooth, high-pitched typing experience made possible by the transparent polycarbonate top housing and UHMWPE bottom housing. The POM stem is lightly lubed, adding to the smooth keystroke and minimal friction. Each switch has its own strengths and characteristics, making them suitable for 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
53g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Nylon
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Double-staged stainless steel
Housing materials
The Outemu Cold Plum features a nylon top housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear has a polycarbonate top housing that leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The Cold Plum's nylon bottom housing shares similar characteristics with its top housing, providing a deeper and fuller sound when typing. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear's UHWMPE bottom housing offers a bright sound signature with resonant clacks when typing, providing a unique sound experience compared to the Cold Plum.
While the Cold Plum's nylon housing creates a duller and rounder sound with both the top and bottom housing, the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear offers a more distinct sound profile with its combination of polycarbonate top housing and UHWMPE bottom housing. The clear housing of the WS Aurora Clear not only provides a sleek aesthetic but also allows for optimal RGB lighting, enhancing the overall look of the switch. The Cold Plum may appeal to those who prefer a softer, more muted sound, while the WS Aurora Clear caters to users seeking a sharp and resonant typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Cold Plum and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear housing materials comes down to personal preference in sound and feel. While both switches have unique qualities, such as the deeper sound profile of the nylon housing in the Cold Plum and the bright sound signature of the UHWMPE housing in the WS Aurora Clear, they both offer a high-quality typing experience. Whether you prefer a softer, fuller sound or a sharper, crisper sound, both switches provide distinct options for keyboard enthusiasts looking to customize their typing experience.
Weight
The Outemu Cold Plum linear switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch, which has an actuation force of 53 grams. Both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Cold Plum at 70 grams and the WS Aurora Clear at 63.5 grams. This means that the Cold Plum is slightly heavier in terms of actuation force, but both are considered medium-heavy switches. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the WS Aurora Clear may be the better option, as it requires less force to actuate. However, for those who prefer a stronger push feel, the Cold Plum may be preferred. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Outemu Cold Plum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it shorter than the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. The Cold Plum's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times, while the WS Aurora Clear's longer travel distance may provide a more substantial feel when typing. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, so choosing between them would depend on personal preference for responsiveness and key feel. Ultimately, the decision comes down to whether you prefer a shorter or longer travel distance in your typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Cold Plum comes in at $3.10, whereas the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear comes in at $8.00.
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 comparing the sound of the Outemu Cold Plum and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear switches, it is evident that they offer different auditory experiences. The Cold Plum is known for its thocky sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying sound upon actuation. On the other hand, the WS Aurora Clear is described as producing a high-pitched sound, offering a sharp and crisp typing experience. Depending on personal preference, individuals may prefer the rich and bassy sound of the Cold Plum or the sharp and clear sound of the WS Aurora Clear.
Moving on to the feel of these switches, the Cold Plum and WS Aurora Clear also offer distinct tactile experiences. The Cold Plum is known for its smooth keystroke, providing a satisfying typing feel for enthusiasts seeking a unique experience. In contrast, the WS Aurora Clear switches are described as buttery, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Additionally, the WS Aurora Clear switches are also noted for being mild and polished, providing a gentle typing sensation with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Depending on individual preferences for typing feel, users may favor the smooth and refined experience of the WS Aurora Clear or the distinct and enjoyable typing feel of the Cold Plum.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Cold Plum and Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear switches offer different sound and feel experiences, both are suitable choices for enthusiasts seeking a high-quality typing experience. Whether one prefers the thocky sound and smooth key travel of the Cold Plum or the high-pitched sound and buttery feel of the WS Aurora Clear, both switches provide unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound profile, typing feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Aurora Clear linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a thocky sound profile and nylon construction for a unique and satisfying feel, the Cold Plum may be the choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth, high-pitched typing experience with maximum RGB lighting customization and a lightly lubed POM stem, the WS Aurora Clear could be the better option. Both switches offer their own distinct characteristics, so ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what features are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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