Outemu Green vs. Kailh Plum
An in-depth look at the Outemu Green and the Kailh Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Green and Kailh Plum offer distinct features that cater to different preferences. The Outemu Green is a clicky switch, known for its tactile feedback and audible click with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum is a tactile switch that offers a unique experience with its weighty feel but subtle tactile bump. While the Outemu Green is ideal for those who enjoy the satisfying click sound and strong tactile response, the Kailh Plum is suited for individuals looking for a quieter, more subtle tactile typing experience. 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
65g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.20 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
Both the Outemu Green and the Kailh Plum utilize polycarbonate for their top housing material, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate results in a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for users looking for a distinct typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Green and Plum switches utilize nylon to provide a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate top housing. The combination of the two materials in each switch offers a balanced typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound upon key release.
While both the Outemu Green and Kailh Plum switches feature similar housing materials, the slight differences in the properties of polycarbonate and nylon give each switch its own unique sound profile. The stiffer polycarbonate top housing in both switches provides a sharp and crisp typing experience, while the softer nylon bottom housing adds depth to the sound. Overall, users can expect similar results in terms of sound quality and aesthetics, with the choice between the Green and Plum switches coming down to personal preference and desired typing experience.
Weight
The Outemu Green clicky switch has a higher actuation force of 65 grams compared to the Kailh Plum tactile switch, which does not have a specified actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Green switch is also higher at 80 grams, whereas the Plum switch has a bottom out force of 70 grams. This means that the Outemu Green switch is heavier both in terms of actuation and bottom out force when compared to the Kailh Plum switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Kailh Plum switch may be the better option, while those looking for a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Outemu Green switch. Both switches provide clicky and tactile feedback, so the overall typing experience may be similar despite the differences in weight.
Travel distance
The Outemu Green clicky 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 Green being on the longer side and the Plum being on the shorter side. Gamers may prefer the Plum switch for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial feel may opt for the Green switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Green 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 Green clicky switch is well-known for its loud and clicky noise with each key press, providing a satisfying auditory feedback for typists. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum tactile switch offers a more neutral sound profile that is not overly loud, making it suitable for various environments without causing distractions. Both switches can provide a pleasant typing experience, with the Green switch offering a more distinctive clicky sound compared to the Plum switch's more subdued noise level.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Green clicky switch provides a tactile and clicky typing experience, with a noticeable bump during actuation and a springy feel when the key is pressed. In contrast, the Kailh Plum tactile switch offers a unique tactile feel that is weighty but not as pronounced as other tactile switches, providing a smooth and satisfying key press without being overly heavy. The Plum switch also features a stepped design, offering a more gradual tactile sensation compared to the sharper bump of other switches.
Overall, both the Outemu Green clicky switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences in typing experience. While the Green switch excels in providing a loud and clicky typing experience, the Plum switch stands out for its weighty yet gentle tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches would depend on individual preferences for sound and feel during typing sessions.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Outemu Green clicky switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, it all comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a heavy bottom out force and a clicky sound, the Outemu Green switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force with a unique tactile feel that is not overly pronounced, the Kailh Plum switch may be more suitable. Consider your typing habits, environment, and desired typing experience when choosing between these two switches. Happy typing!
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