Outemu Red vs. Kailh Plum
An in-depth look at the Outemu Red and the Kailh Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Red and Kailh Plum offer unique characteristics catering to different preferences. The Outemu Red is a linear switch, best known for its smooth keypress without tactile feedback or audible click. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum is a tactile switch that stands out for its unique feel - featuring a hefty build but with a subtle tactile bump, offering a different experience from conventional tactile switches. While the Red switch provides a consistent and straightforward typing experience, the Plum switch offers a more nuanced feel with its weightiness and mild tactility. 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
46g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.10 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 Outemu Red and Kailh Plum key switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate, a relatively stiff plastic, leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting. However, while both switches have similar top housing materials, they may differ in the design and thickness of the housing, which could affect the overall sound and feel of the switch.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Outemu Red and Kailh Plum switches utilize nylon. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to other plastics. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, typing on switches that use nylon bottom housings may provide a different tactile and auditory experience compared to switches with polycarbonate bottom housings. Despite having different bottom housing materials, both switches offer a unique typing experience due to the characteristics of the nylon material.
Overall, while the Outemu Red and Kailh Plum switches have similarities in their polycarbonate top housings, they differ in their use of nylon bottom housings. The combination of these materials results in distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences for each switch. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound from a stiffer polycarbonate housing or a deeper, fuller sound from a softer nylon housing, both switches offer unique benefits that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Outemu Red linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch have different actuation and bottom out forces, with the Outemu Red being lighter overall. The Outemu Red has an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, making it a medium-weight switch. In contrast, the Kailh Plum has an unknown actuation force but a bottom out force of 70 grams, which is medium-heavy. Despite the differences in force, both switches provide a unique typing experience for users. Some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Outemu Red for longer typing or gaming sessions, while others may gravitate towards the heavier bottom out force of the Kailh Plum for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and how users prioritize actuation and bottom out forces in their typing experience.
Travel distance
The Outemu Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Kailh Plum tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Outemu Red has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Kailh Plum. The 0.4 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can affect the overall feel and feedback of the switch when typing or gaming. Gamers who prioritize faster response times might prefer the shorter travel distance of the Kailh Plum, while those who enjoy a more tactile and drawn-out key press may lean towards the Outemu Red. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific typing or gaming needs of the user.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Red 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 Red linear switch is known for being relatively quiet, lacking the audible click or tactile bump found in other switches. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum tactile switch provides a neutral sound profile that is enjoyable and moderate in volume. It is important to note that sound can also be influenced by the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Outemu Red is known for its smooth linear action without any tactile feedback or resistance. In contrast, the Kailh Plum tactile switch offers a unique typing experience with a hefty feel but a less pronounced tactile bump compared to other tactile switches. This makes the Plum switch stand out as it provides a different tactile sensation from the norm, resulting in a comfortable and approachable typing experience suitable for a wide range of users.
Considering the information provided, if sound and feel are the most important factors in choosing a switch, one would likely prefer the Outemu Red for a quiet and smooth typing experience, while the Kailh Plum would be more appealing for those looking for a unique tactile feel with a moderate sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Outemu Red linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, you should consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smoother keystroke without any tactile feedback, the Outemu Red switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you appreciate a slightly heavier bottom out force and a unique tactile sensation that is not too pronounced, the Kailh Plum switch could be a more suitable option. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what type of typing experience you find most comfortable and enjoyable.
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