Outemu Tom vs. Kailh Plum
An in-depth look at the Outemu Tom and the Kailh Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Tom and the Kailh Plum are both tactile switches worth exploring. The Outemu Tom is best known for its unique characteristics, while the Kailh Plum stands out for its weightiness and distinct feel. The Tom switch is categorized as a tactile switch, while the Plum is categorized as neutral, mild, and stepped. The Plum's tactile bump is not as pronounced as other switches, providing a unique typing experience with a neutral and enjoyable sound profile. On the other hand, the Tom offers a different tactile feedback that may appeal to users looking for something unconventional. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Both the Outemu Tom and the Kailh Plum feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate creates a clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal choice for switches that are designed to be used with RGB lighting. This material allows light to pass through, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches. While both switches share this common top housing material, the differences in their bottom housings will influence the overall sound and feel of the switches.
In terms of their bottom housings, the Tom utilizes nylon, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Conversely, the Plum also features a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar experience with a focus on creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. Despite their shared bottom housing material, the differences in their top housings will still play a role in the overall typing experience.
Despite the differences in their bottom housings, both the Outemu Tom and Kailh Plum offer a unique typing experience with a balance of sharp, high-pitched sounds from the polycarbonate top housing and deep, fuller sounds from the nylon bottom housing. The combination of these housing materials creates a dynamic sound profile that enhances the overall typing experience for users. Whether you choose the Tom or the Plum, you can expect to enjoy the benefits of both polycarbonate and nylon in your mechanical keyboard switches.
Weight
Comparing the Outemu Tom tactile switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, the Tom has a lighter actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Plum, which has an unknown actuation force. On the other hand, the Plum has a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams, while the bottom out force for the Tom is unavailable. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, the Tom may be the better option due to its lower actuation force. However, for users who prefer a more substantial feel and stronger push when typing, the Plum with its heavier bottom out force may be the preferred choice. The actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining the typing experience and comfort level for different users.
Travel distance
The Outemu Tom tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, which is shorter than the Kailh Plum tactile switch's travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Plum switch has a slightly longer distance to travel from top to bottom compared to the Tom switch. While both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, the slight difference may impact the feel and responsiveness of the keys. Gamers looking for a faster response time may prefer the Tom switch, while those who enjoy a deeper press may lean towards the Plum switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Tom 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 Tom tactile switch is known for its neutral sound profile while the Kailh Plum tactile switch is also described as neutral. This means that both switches produce a moderate sound that is suitable for a variety of environments and preferences. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Tom switch does not have a specific descriptor provided, while the Kailh Plum switch is described as offering a mild and stepped typing experience. The Plum tactile switch provides a gentle typing feel without a significant tactile bump, making it unique compared to other tactile switches. The stepped feel of the Plum switch adds an extra layer of complexity to the typing experience, allowing for some pre-travel and/or post-travel sensation during key presses.
In conclusion, both the Outemu Tom and Kailh Plum tactile switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Tom switch is known for having a neutral sound profile, the Plum switch stands out for its hefty yet less pronounced tactile bump. In terms of feel, the Plum switch provides a mild and stepped typing experience, while the feel of the Tom switch is not explicitly defined. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference and the specific typing experience desired.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a unique heavy feel but without an overwhelming tactile bump, the Kailh Plum tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. The Plum offers a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams and a neutral sound profile that many find enjoyable. Additionally, the Plum's mild and stepped feel makes it approachable to most users, providing a gentle typing experience without the extreme tactility found in other switches. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with no specified bottom out force and are looking for a switch with a specific characteristic (that is currently unknown), the Outemu Tom tactile switch may be the better option for you. Ultimately, both switches have their strengths and cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider your typing style and preferences when choosing between the two.
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