Outemu Phoenix vs. Kailh Plum
An in-depth look at the Outemu Phoenix and the Kailh Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the Outemu Phoenix and the Kailh Plum. The Outemu Phoenix is a clicky switch that stands out for its unique under-skirt click mechanism, making it easily the most distinctive clicky switch on the market. With its crystalline and sparkling feel and sound profile, the Phoenix offers a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum is a tactile switch that surprises with its weightiness despite not having a pronounced tactile bump. This unique characteristic sets it apart from other tactile switches where tactility and weightiness tend to go hand in hand. The sound profile of the Kailh Plum is neutral and enjoyable. However, to truly decide on the best switch for you, it's essential to delve deeper into their specificities beyond these general pointers.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The comparison between the housing materials of the Outemu Phoenix and the Kailh Plum reveals some similarities and differences. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic that enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, users of both the Phoenix and the Plum can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetic appeal with their polycarbonate top housing.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, these switches take different approaches. The Phoenix continues to use polycarbonate for its bottom housing, which contributes to the overall sound profile and feel when pressing down on the keys. The relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate delivers a clear and resonant sound, complementing the typing experience. On the other hand, the Plum utilizes nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound. This creates a duller and rounder sound when typing on the Plum, providing a distinct auditory experience compared to the Phoenix.
In terms of the impact on the overall sound, the bottom housing plays a crucial role. The qualities of the bottom housing are felt and heard during the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. Therefore, the choice of material for the bottom housing significantly influences the tactile experience of typing. Conversely, the top housing is more influential in the sound produced when releasing a key. The stiffer polycarbonate in the top housing of both the Phoenix and the Plum contributes to the crispness and resonance of the sound when a key is released.
Overall, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Outemu Phoenix and the Kailh Plum yields similar results in terms of sound and aesthetic appeal, they diverge when it comes to their bottom housing materials. The Phoenix's polycarbonate bottom housing offers a clear and resonant sound, while the Plum's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound. These differences contribute to distinct typing experiences, showcasing the impact of housing materials on the sound and feel of mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, we find that the Phoenix has an unavailable actuation force and a bottom out force of 62 grams, which can be considered medium-weight. On the other hand, the Plum features an unavailable actuation force and a slightly heavier bottom out force of 70 grams, which can be classified as medium-heavy.
Considering weight, some individuals prefer a lighter actuation force as it allows them to type for longer durations, making it ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. However, others may prefer a stronger push feel, which provides a more substantial typing experience. For those individuals, options with heavier forces are better suited.
Since the exact actuation forces are unknown for both switches, it is difficult to make a direct comparison in terms of force required to trigger a keystroke. However, based on the available information, we can conclude that the Outemu Phoenix may provide a slightly lighter typing experience compared to the Kailh Plum due to its lower bottom out force of 62 grams. Nevertheless, both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, so users can expect similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, there is a slight difference between the two. The Phoenix has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Plum has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances which are gaining popularity in recent times. Gamers, in particular, prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. So, if you prioritize quick and responsive typing or gaming, the Phoenix switch would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on the keys, the Kailh Plum switch with its longer travel distance might be more appealing. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for either a shorter or longer travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Phoenix comes in at $4.15, 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 Phoenix clicky switch offers a unique and distinct experience. These switches have a crunchy sound, similar to stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum tactile switch provides a more neutral sound profile. It has a moderate sound that is enjoyable and suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, using it at home or work. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen. Despite their differences in sound, both switches offer satisfying auditory feedback.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch is described as having a polished finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. This polished switch ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel, providing a satisfying typing feel. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum tactile switch offers a more mild typing experience. It falls in the safe middle-ground zone, offering a gentle feel that is approachable to most users. Additionally, the Plum tactile switch is considered a stepped switch, which means it has a two-stage feel with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. This adds to the unique and pleasant tactile experience of the Plum switch. Both switches offer different tactile sensations, allowing users to choose based on their preferences.
In conclusion, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Phoenix switch stands out with its crunchy sound profile, providing a unique auditory experience reminiscent of autumn leaves. Its polished feel ensures smooth and refined key travel. On the other hand, the Plum switch offers a neutral sound profile and a more mild typing experience, making it suitable for various settings. Its stepped characteristic adds an extra level of tactile feedback. Depending on the user's preference for sound and feel, both switches provide satisfying results.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a unique and sparkling clicky switch with a medium bottom out force, the Outemu Phoenix is an excellent choice. Its under-skirt click mechanism provides a distinct feel and sound profile, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a tactile switch that feels hefty without a pronounced bump, the Kailh Plum is the way to go. Despite its weightiness, the Plum offers a neutral sound profile that is enjoyable and suitable for various settings. In terms of feel, the Phoenix provides a polished and refined experience, thanks to a smooth finish and reduced friction. Conversely, the Plum offers a mild and approachable typing experience, falling in the safe middle-ground zone between pronounced characteristics. Overall, the choice between the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch depends on your preference for a unique clicky experience or a heavier, yet neutral tactile feel.
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