Outemu Gold vs. Kailh Plum
An in-depth look at the Outemu Gold and the Kailh Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding between the Outemu Gold, a clicky switch, and the Kailh Plum, a tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. The Gold switch is best known for its clicky feedback, giving users a satisfying auditory confirmation with each key press. On the other hand, the Plum switch offers a unique tactile experience with a weighty feel and a gentle bump that sets it apart from traditional tactile switches. While the Gold switch may appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced click, the Plum switch caters to users seeking a subtle tactile response. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
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
The housing materials of the Outemu Gold and the Kailh Plum switches both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for users who prioritize sound quality in their typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches intended for RGB lighting applications, enhancing the aesthetics of the keyboard.
In contrast, the bottom housing of the Gold switch is made of nylon, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Plum switch's nylon bottom housing. Nylon's softer nature allows it to absorb more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. This difference in material for the bottom housing could result in a slightly different typing experience between the two switches, with the Gold potentially offering a more impactful bottom-out sound and feel due to the characteristics of nylon.
Overall, while both the Outemu Gold and Kailh Plum switches share the use of polycarbonate for their top housings, the distinction lies in their bottom housing materials. Despite the differences in bottom housing materials, the overall typing experience may not vary significantly between the two switches as the top housing is more influential on the sound when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference for sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
The Outemu Gold clicky switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Kailh Plum tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Outemu Gold switch is heavier at 60 grams, while the Kailh Plum switch has a bottom out force of 70 grams. This means that the Outemu Gold switch provides a lighter initial press but requires more force to fully press the key, providing a medium typing experience. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum switch offers a medium to medium-heavy typing experience with a heavier initial press and bottom out force. Both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, with the Outemu Gold switch being more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch, while the Kailh Plum switch is better suited for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, we find that the Gold has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Plum has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Gold being slightly longer than the Plum. Gamers who value faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Plum, while those who enjoy a deeper key press may lean towards the Gold. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distances in keyboard switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Gold 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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Gold clicky switch does not have a specific reputation or descriptor known in the community, while the Kailh Plum tactile switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. A neutral sound profile means that it produces a moderate sound that is generally pleasant and suitable for various settings. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard body and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Gold switch does not have a specific reputation or descriptor, whereas the Kailh Plum tactile switch is known for feeling mild and stepped. A mild switch provides a gentler typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics, making it approachable to most users. Additionally, a stepped switch like the Kailh Plum offers a two-stage tactile feedback, giving a different feel compared to switches with a single prominent tactile bump.
Overall, both the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch have unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Gold switch's lack of known characteristics leaves more room for user interpretation, while the Plum switch stands out for its heftiness without a pronounced tactile bump and its neutral sound profile. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, users can expect different typing experiences with these switches, but both should provide satisfactory performance for a variety of use cases.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and are looking for a switch with a clicky sound profile, the Gold may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and are seeking a tactile switch with a unique feel that is not overly heavy on the tactile bump, the Plum could be the switch for you. Additionally, if you enjoy a neutral sound profile and a mild typing experience that still offers some tactile feedback, the Plum may be the better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for weight, sound, and typing experience.