Outemu Crystal Brown vs. Kailh Plum
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal Brown and the Kailh Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Crystal Brown and the Kailh Plum mechanical keyboard switches, it is important to note their distinct characteristics. The Crystal Brown is known for its tactile feedback, providing a satisfying bump when pressed. On the other hand, the Plum switch offers a unique experience as it feels hefty without a pronounced tactile bump, setting it apart from traditional tactile switches. While the Crystal Brown falls into the category of a tactile switch, the Plum switch is categorized as having a neutral, mild, and stepped feel. Both switches have their own advantages depending on personal preference - the Crystal Brown for those who prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback, and the Plum for those looking for a unique typing experience without a heavy tactile bump. 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Crystal Brown and the Kailh Plum, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. The polycarbonate material used in the top housing of both switches creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, allowing for a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting capabilities. With both switches utilizing polycarbonate in their top housing, users can expect similar sound profiles and visual effects if RGB lighting is a priority.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Crystal Brown utilizes a nylon material while the Plum also features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing compared to harder plastics. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Despite the difference in the bottom housing material between the switches, users can still expect a similar typing experience with regards to sound and feel due to the acoustic properties of nylon.
Overall, the differences between the housing materials of the Outemu Crystal Brown and the Kailh Plum lie mainly in the bottom housing material, with both switches sharing a polycarbonate top housing. The split between the qualities brought by each housing material allows for a unique typing experience where the bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Whether one prefers the sharper sound profile of polycarbonate or the deeper sound of nylon, both switches offer a distinct typing experience that caters to different preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, it is evident that the Crystal Brown is lighter in both aspects. The Crystal Brown has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, which is considered medium-light. On the other hand, the Plum has an actuation force of None grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it medium-heavy. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Crystal Brown make it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer comfortable typing sessions. In contrast, the heavier bottom out force of the Plum provides a more substantial typing feel, which some users may prefer for a more tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference based on whether one prefers a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Kailh Plum tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Crystal Brown being slightly longer. Gamers may prefer the Plum switch for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may opt for the Crystal Brown. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Crystal Brown comes in at $3.10, whereas the Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25.
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 Crystal Brown switch is known for being neutral in its sound profile, while the Kailh Plum switch is also described as neutral. This means that both switches have a moderate sound level that is generally pleasant to the ear. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be affected by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, so individual experiences may vary.
Moving on to feel, the Outemu Crystal Brown switch does not have a specific description provided, while the Kailh Plum switch is described as mild and stepped. The mild characteristic of the Plum switch suggests that it offers a gentler typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced features, making it accessible to a wide range of users. Additionally, the stepped feature of the Plum switch indicates that it has a two-stage tactile feedback, different from the continuous bump of more pronounced tactile switches.
Overall, the Outemu Crystal Brown and Kailh Plum switches both have their unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Crystal Brown switch may have a neutral sound with an undisclosed feel, the Kailh Plum switch stands out for its mild and stepped tactile feedback, offering a distinctive typing experience. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, with the Plum switch offering a unique tactile sensation that may appeal to those seeking a gentler tactile bump.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch or the Kailh Plum tactile switch, you should take into account the differences in bottom out force, sound profile, and feel. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and are looking for a tactile switch with a more traditional typing experience, the Crystal Brown may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force and are interested in a unique switch with a moderate sound profile and a mild, stepped feel, the Kailh Plum could be the switch for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preferences and typing style. So, weighing the factors that matter most to you will help you make the best choice for your keyboard setup.
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