Outemu Cold Plum vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)

Overview

When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves comparing popular options like the Outemu Cold Plum and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy). The Outemu Cold Plum switches are celebrated for their thocky sound profile and fully nylon construction, delivering a smooth keystroke that enhances the overall typing experience. With their unique auditory feedback and tactile satisfaction, these linear switches are an excellent choice for those who prioritize a distinct and enjoyable feel while typing. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) brings its own appeal with a heavier variant of the classic Xinhai switch. Constructed with a unique PA12 top housing, it provides a softer acoustic profile combined with a POM stem that offers a crisp, higher-pitched resonance. This switch caters to individuals who appreciate a blend of subtle sophistication and precise performance. Both switches have their own merits, making them desirable for different types of users. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Outemu Cold Plum Linear

HMX Xinhai (Heavy) Linear

$3.10 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

Both the Outemu Cold Plum and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches are equipped with nylon housing materials, a classic choice in the realm of mechanical keyboards. Each switch features a nylon top and bottom housing, which delivers a distinct sound profile characterized by a deeper and fuller acoustic experience. This is attributed to nylon's relatively softer characteristics, which provide enhanced sound absorption compared to harder plastics. Consequently, users will experience a typing sensation that is not only rounder but also more subdued, fostering an overall pleasant auditory feedback during use.

Since both switches utilize nylon for both the top and bottom housings, they share similar acoustic and tactile qualities. The similarities in their materials mean that when typing on either switch, one can expect a consistent experience where the depth of sound is largely uniform. The softness inherent in the nylon construction contributes to a balanced response, whether you are bottoming out a key or releasing it. Therefore, users aiming for a harmonious typing experience with rich sound characteristics will find comparable results across both the Cold Plum and the Xinhai (Heavy).

However, it's important to note that even though the materials and sound profiles are alike, variations in switch design, such as their mechanical components or actuation force, may introduce differences in feel and feedback while typing. For instance, variations in stem design or spring tension could result in slight distinctions in keystroke responsiveness. Ultimately, while the nylon housing construction ensures both switches produce a similar auditory experience, other design factors could influence the overall user experience, making it worth considering individual preferences in key feel and performance beyond just the housing material.

Weight

When comparing the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Cold Plum requires a slightly higher actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Xinhai's 55 grams, indicating that the Cold Plum provides a bit more resistance during keystrokes, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial feel while typing. Similarly, the bottom out force for the Cold Plum switch is 70 grams, compared to the Xinhai's 62.5 grams. This means that the Cold Plum also has a heavier bottom out force, enhancing the tactile feedback for users who value a firmer key press. Consequently, the Outemu Cold Plum switch is classified as medium-heavy, while the HMX Xinhai is regarded as medium. For individuals who favor a lighter touch for prolonged typing or gaming sessions, the HMX Xinhai would be the preferred choice. In contrast, those who appreciate a stronger push feel might find the Cold Plum more satisfying. Overall, the Cold Plum is the heavier of the two switches, providing a more robust typing experience.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, there is a slight difference that could influence user experience. The Cold Plum switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Xinhai (Heavy) offers a slightly longer travel distance of 3.4 mm. Consequently, the Cold Plum is the shorter option, which may provide a more responsive feel, appealing to gamers who favor quick keypresses for enhanced performance. On the other hand, the Xinhai (Heavy) switch, with its longer travel distance, may be better suited for users who appreciate a more pronounced depth in their keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference regarding responsiveness versus depth in the typing experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Outemu Cold Plum switches deliver a distinctive thocky sound profile that enhances the overall typing experience. This acoustic quality, combined with their fully nylon construction, produces a pleasantly deep and satisfying auditory feedback that many enthusiasts appreciate. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches are characterized by a softer acoustics profile due to their PA12 top housing. These switches produce a crisp, higher-pitched resonance thanks to their POM stem. While the Cold Plum provides a more pronounced thock, the Xinhai offers a higher-pitched and refined sound, catering to different auditory preferences. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps, so both switches can deliver enjoyable auditory results depending on the setup.

Regarding the feel, the Outemu Cold Plum switches ensure a smooth keystroke, providing a gratifying typing sensation that many find appealing for both gaming and typing tasks. The switches facilitate a linear travel that adds to their enjoyable tactile experience. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches embody a blend of sophistication and precise performance, although detailed information about their tactile feedback is less explicit. The implication of their heavier variant suggests that they may require a bit more force to actuate, which could appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. While the specifics of the feel may differ, both switches aim to provide a satisfying linear action that minimizes friction for effortless keypresses.

In conclusion, both the Outemu Cold Plum and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switches present unique qualities that can cater to different preferences among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Cold Plum is celebrated for its thocky sound and smooth feel, making it a preferred choice for those who enjoy depth in their auditory experience and a fluid keystroke. Meanwhile, the Xinhai (Heavy) offers a more refined, higher-pitched sound coupled with the potential for a more substantial typing force, appealing to users seeking a blend of sophistication and performance. Depending on individual tastes and keyboard setups, both options promise to deliver an enjoyable and engaging typing experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between Outemu Cold Plum switches and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you appreciate a thocky sound profile and a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams that provides a satisfying resistance while typing, the Cold Plum is an excellent option. Its nylon construction contributes to a smooth keystroke and an enjoyable typing experience, making it particularly appealing for enthusiasts who find joy in tactile feedback and sound. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a medium bottom out force of 62.5 grams for more rapid keystrokes, the Xinhai (Heavy) may be your go-to. Its PA12 top housing offers softer acoustics while still delivering a crisp resonance from the POM stem, making it a great fit for those seeking a more refined and sophisticated typing experience. Ultimately, your choice hinges on whether you prioritize an engaging sound and heft with the Cold Plum or a lighter, elegant feel with the Xinhai (Heavy).

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Cold Plum Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

HMX Xinhai (Heavy) Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more