Outemu Cold Plum vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cold Plum and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Cold Plum and SP-Star Yanyu stand out for their unique characteristics. The Cold Plum switch is praised for its thocky sound profile and fully nylon construction, providing a smooth keystroke and satisfying sound for enthusiasts seeking an enjoyable typing experience. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch is preferred by those looking for a more delicate typing feel, especially during long typing sessions, thanks to its material blend that offers a crisp sound profile. While the Cold Plum is categorized as [], the Yanyu falls into categories like 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Thocky'. Each switch has its own strengths and appeal, making them suitable for different preferences and typing 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
43g
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
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Cold Plum and the SP-Star Yanyu both utilize nylon, a classic switch housing material known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile. However, the Yanyu stands out with its unique blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE in both the top and bottom housing. This blend gives the Yanyu a sound profile that leans towards the brighter side compared to the Cold Plum. While both switches offer a pleasant typing experience, the Yanyu's blend of materials provides a slightly different auditory feedback.
In terms of sound production, the Cold Plum and the Yanyu differ in their housing materials. The Cold Plum's nylon top and bottom housing contribute to a duller and rounder sound, perfect for those who prefer a deeper typing experience. On the other hand, the Yanyu's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top and bottom housing create a sound profile that is not particularly sharp but leans towards the brighter side. This difference in housing materials results in distinct sound profiles for each switch, catering to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.
Overall, the housing materials of the Outemu Cold Plum and the SP-Star Yanyu play a crucial role in the sound and feel of each switch. While both switches use nylon in their housing, the Yanyu's unique blend of materials sets it apart with a brighter sound profile compared to the Cold Plum. The split between the bottom and top housing qualities also affects the typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, keyboard enthusiasts may find that the Yanyu offers a slightly different typing experience due to its innovative blend of housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, it is evident that there are significant differences between the two. The Cold Plum switch has a medium-heavy actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Yanyu switch has a lighter bottom out force of 43 grams, although the actuation force is unknown. This makes the Yanyu switch ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch and may benefit from typing for extended periods without fatigue. Those who prefer a heavier push feel may lean towards the Cold Plum switch for a more robust typing experience. Both switches offer unique benefits depending on individual preferences, with the Cold Plum being the heavier option and the Yanyu offering a lighter touch for typing.
Travel distance
The Outemu Cold Plum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it the shorter option compared to the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Cold Plum's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Yanyu's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and keypress feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Yanyu has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yanyu for $5.40.
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 linear switch is best known for its thocky sound profile, which produces a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch is described as having a more neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes and environments. The Cold Plum offers a unique typing experience with its distinctive sound, while the Yanyu provides a more delicate and crisp sound for those looking for a gentler typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Cold Plum linear switch does not have specific descriptors provided in the information given. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch offers a mild, feathery, subtle, and polished typing experience. This means that the Yanyu switch provides a more gentle and light typing feel compared to the Cold Plum, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions and suitable for shared spaces due to its subtle sound signature.
Overall, if you prefer a switch with a thocky sound profile and fully nylon construction, the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch would be an excellent choice. However, if you are looking for a more neutral sound profile and a gentle typing experience, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch may be more suited to your preferences. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so choosing between them ultimately comes down to your personal preferences in sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Outemu Cold Plum and SP-Star Yanyu linear switches, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a thocky sound profile with a smooth keystroke, the Cold Plum switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a lighter bottom out force and a more delicate typing experience, along with a crisp sound profile, the Yanyu switch could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing needs. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing styles, so choose the one that aligns best with your preferences for an optimal typing experience.
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