Kailh Plum vs. Everglide Sunset Yellow

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a plethora of options to choose from, each offering its own unique characteristics and benefits. Two switches that stand out among the rest are the Kailh Plum and the Everglide Sunset Yellow. While both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, they differ in terms of tactility and sound profile. The Plum, a tactile switch, is known for its hefty feel and subtle tactile bump, giving it a distinct feel compared to other tactile switches. On the other hand, the Sunset Yellow, a linear switch, offers a captivating sound profile reminiscent of mahjong tiles colliding, making typing an indulgent experience. Its medium-weight and unique POM stem contribute to a gliding feel and highly responsive typing. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Kailh Plum Tactile

Everglide Sunset Yellow Linear

$6.25 per 10

$3.09 per 10

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Housing materials

The Kailh Plum and the Everglide Sunset Yellow differ in their choice of housing materials. The Plum features a polycarbonate top housing, while the Sunset Yellow utilizes a POM top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for those seeking a clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, POM housings produce a deeper and more muted sound, providing a distinct and pleasing typing experience. However, both materials offer unique benefits when it comes to aesthetics. The translucency of polycarbonate in the Plum switch allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, while the Sunset Yellow's POM top housing adds a visually appealing touch to the overall design.

Moving on to the bottom housings, the Plum incorporates a nylon material, while the Sunset Yellow features a POM bottom housing. Nylon is considered a classic choice for switch housing, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its softer nature allows for more sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the POM bottom housing in the Sunset Yellow switch contributes to a deep and muted sound experience. While the bottom housing may have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, both materials create enjoyable typing experiences by enhancing the overall sound profile of the switches.

Although the materials used in the housing of the Kailh Plum and the Everglide Sunset Yellow differ, they do share some similarities. For instance, both POM top housings create a unique and pleasing sound that leans towards the deeper side. Additionally, both switches incorporate materials in their bottom housings that contribute to a fuller sound profile. While the specific characteristics of polycarbonate and nylon may vary, the end result is a satisfying sound and feel when typing. So, whether you choose the Plum or the Sunset Yellow, you can expect a high-quality typing experience with distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force between the Kailh Plum tactile switch and the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch, there are notable differences. The Plum switch has an actuation force of an unavailable measurement, while the Sunset Yellow switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Plum switch requires a heavier force of 70 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. On the other hand, the Sunset Yellow switch has a lower bottom out force of 51 grams, classifying it as medium-light.

Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing a switch, as it can affect typing comfort and endurance. Those seeking a lighter typing experience may prefer the Sunset Yellow switch with its lower actuation force, allowing for prolonged typing sessions without excessive strain. This lightweight option would be well-suited for individuals typing at work or engaging in long gaming sessions.

However, for those who prefer a more substantial and forceful typing experience, the Plum switch may be the better choice. With a higher bottom out force, this switch provides a stronger push feel and a more satisfying keystroke sensation. This extra force requirement may be preferred by individuals who value a heightened tactile feedback or desire a more deliberate keystroke response.

In conclusion, the actuation and bottom out forces of the Kailh Plum tactile switch and the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch differ. The Plum switch tends to be heavier, providing a more significant typing experience, while the Sunset Yellow switch offers a lighter touch for extended typing sessions. Choosing between the two depends on personal preference and desired typing experience.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Plum tactile switch and the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch, it is clear that they have different distances. The Plum has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Sunset Yellow has a slightly shorter distance of 3.2 mm. In terms of traditional standards, both switches fall within the acceptable range, with the Plum being slightly longer and the Sunset Yellow being slightly shorter. However, with the increasing popularity of shorter travel distances, gamers often prefer the Sunset Yellow for its faster response times. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial feel may lean towards the Plum with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for responsiveness or depth.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Kailh Plum switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that it produces a moderate sound during key presses, making it suitable for most purposes. On the other hand, the Everglide Sunset Yellow switch is described as having a bassy sound profile, with a lower frequency range that resembles the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Additionally, it is described as thocky, which means it produces a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics, but the Plum provides a more neutral and enjoyable sound, while the Sunset Yellow offers a deeper and more indulgent sound experience.

In terms of feel, the Kailh Plum switch is described as providing a mild typing experience. This means that it offers a more gentle typing feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. It is also described as a stepped switch, which means it has two stages of tactile feedback. This gives it a mild and approachable feel, with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. On the other hand, the Everglide Sunset Yellow switch is described as creamy, frictionless, and polished. This means it offers a smooth and buttery typing experience, with reduced friction and effortless key travel. The combination of the POM stem and proprietary factory lube method contributes to a distinct gliding feel. Both switches provide unique and enjoyable typing experiences, with the Plum offering a mild feel and the Sunset Yellow offering a smooth and frictionless feel.

In conclusion, the Kailh Plum tactile switch and the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Plum has a neutral sound profile, providing a moderate and enjoyable sound experience, while the Sunset Yellow offers a bassy and thocky sound profile, giving a deeper and more indulgent sound experience. In terms of feel, the Plum provides a mild and approachable typing experience, with a stepped feel that has some pre-travel and/or post-travel. On the other hand, the Sunset Yellow offers a creamy, frictionless, and polished feel, with a distinct gliding sensation and smooth key travel. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience. If you prefer a similar sound profile to the Sunset Yellow but with a different feel, you can try combining it with the Plum switch, or vice versa, as the sound is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.

Conclusion

To wrap up, when choosing between the Kailh Plum tactile switch and the Everglide Sunset Yellow linear switch, you should consider your preference for weightiness and tactility. The Plum offers a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a unique, hefty feel without a significant tactile bump. Its sound profile is described as neutral and enjoyable. On the other hand, the Sunset Yellow has a medium-light bottom out force of 51 grams, making it suitable for a wide range of users. It offers a captivating sound profile reminiscent of mahjong tiles colliding, with a rich and bassy sound. Additionally, the Sunset Yellow provides a distinct gliding feel due to its unique POM stem and proprietary factory lube method. Ultimately, if you prefer a heavier and weightier typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the Plum would be a suitable choice. However, if you enjoy a lighter typing experience with a bassy and indulgent sound, combined with a smooth and gliding feel, the Sunset Yellow would be the better option for you.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh Plum Tactile

$6.25 per 10

Learn more

Everglide Sunset Yellow Linear

$3.09 per 10

Learn more