Outemu Cold Plum vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cold Plum and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Outemu Cold Plum and the PH Studio Yoel. The Cold Plum switch, known for its thocky sound profile and smooth keystrokes thanks to its fully nylon construction, offers enthusiasts a unique and enjoyable typing experience. On the other hand, the Yoel switch, manufactured by BSUN, provides a delectably chewy typing experience with a bright and clacky sound profile that resonates satisfyingly upon bottoming out. While the Cold Plum switch may appeal to those seeking a distinct feel, the Yoel switch offers a different typing experience with its pronounced resonance. 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
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Nylon
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Cold Plum and the PH Studio Yoel, we can see a stark difference in the sound profiles they produce. The Cold Plum utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housing, creating a deeper and fuller sound that is duller and rounder. In contrast, the Yoel features a polycarbonate top housing and a POM bottom housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched sound from the top and a deeper, more muted sound from the bottom. These differences in housing materials play a significant role in the overall typing experience and sound of the switches.
While the Cold Plum and the Yoel both offer unique sound profiles due to their housing materials, they also share some similarities. Both switches prioritize sound quality and offer a pleasing typing experience. The nylon top housing in the Cold Plum provides a deeper sound profile, while the polycarbonate top housing in the Yoel creates a crisp and resonant sound. Additionally, the POM bottom housing in the Yoel and the nylon bottom housing in the Cold Plum both contribute to a fuller sound, albeit with different tones and levels of muting.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Cold Plum and the PH Studio Yoel will depend on personal preference for sound profile and typing feel. The use of different housing materials in each switch allows for a diverse range of sound options and tactile experiences. Whether you prefer a deeper, fuller sound with a rounder tone from the Cold Plum or a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile from the Yoel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, it is evident that the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Cold Plum switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a medium-heavy feel. On the other hand, the Yoel switch features a lighter actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium switch overall. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience might lean towards the Yoel switch for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons, while users who enjoy a more substantial push feel may opt for the Cold Plum switch. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their actuation and bottom out forces, catering to a variety of preferences in the mechanical keyboard community.
Travel distance
The Outemu Cold Plum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the PH Studio Yoel linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. Both switches have relatively short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0mm distance. Gamers may prefer the Yoel switch for its slightly shorter travel distance, allowing for quicker response times during gameplay. On the other hand, the Cold Plum switch offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The PH Studio Yoel has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yoel for $4.10.
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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Cold Plum switch is known for its thocky sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying auditory experience with each keystroke. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel switch produces a bright and clacky sound that is sharp and percussive, resonating with a pronounced tone when keys bottom out. Both switches offer unique sound profiles, catering to different preferences in typing noise. The Cold Plum's thocky sound may appeal to those who enjoy a deeper and more resonant typing experience, while the Yoel's bright and clacky sound may be preferred by individuals looking for a sharper and crisper typing sound.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Cold Plum switch is known for its smooth keystrokes and satisfying typing feel, offering a distinct and enjoyable typing experience. Unfortunately, specific descriptors for the feel of the Cold Plum switch are not available. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel switch provides a chewy typing experience that envelops fingertips with every press, described as creamy, polished, and silky. The Yoel switch offers a smooth and buttery typing sensation, enhanced by a refined finish that reduces friction and provides effortless key travel.
In conclusion, the Outemu Cold Plum and PH Studio Yoel switches offer distinct sound profiles and typing feels for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While the Cold Plum switch provides a thocky sound and smooth keystrokes, the Yoel switch delivers a bright and clacky sound with a creamy and polished typing sensation. Choosing between these switches will ultimately come down to personal preference in sound and feel, with both switches offering a unique and enjoyable typing experience. Additionally, aspects such as keycap material, keyboard build, and personal typing style can further influence the overall typing feel and sound produced by these switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force of 70 grams and enjoy a smooth keystroke with a thocky sound profile, the Cold Plum may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force of 60 grams and enjoy a bright and clacky sound profile with a creamy and polished typing feel, the Yoel may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that best aligns with your typing style and preferences.
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