Gateron Oil King vs. Outemu Cold Plum
An in-depth look at the Gateron Oil King and the Outemu Cold Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Oil King and the Outemu Cold Plum mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Oil King is praised for its buttery smoothness and sound profile reminiscent of a dark chocolate bar snapping, making it a favorite among users looking for a low-pitched, creamy, silky, bassy, and buttery feel. On the other hand, the Cold Plum stands out with its thocky sound profile and fully nylon construction, delivering a smooth keystroke and satisfying sound for enthusiasts seeking a distinct typing experience. While both switches offer exceptional qualities, such as smoothness and unique sound profiles, it is important to delve deeper into the specific features and feel of each switch to determine which one best suits your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Color coated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Oil King and the Outemu Cold Plum, it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for their top housing. This classic switch housing material offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs sound effectively. As a result, typing on both switches would produce a similar sound experience characterized by a duller and rounder tone. However, it is important to note that this similarity only pertains to the top housing material.
Where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing materials. The Oil King features a proprietary INK blend bottom housing that produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, described as clacky. In contrast, the Cold Plum utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This contrast in bottom housing materials results in a distinct difference in the sound and feel of the switches when pressed down, highlighting the impact of these materials on the overall typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Oil King and the Outemu Cold Plum comes down to personal preference in sound and feel. While both switches share a common nylon top housing that creates a similar sound profile, the unique properties of their respective bottom housing materials significantly influence the overall typing experience. Whether you prefer a clacky and high-pitched sound or a deeper and fuller tone, the decision between these switches will hinge on your individual preference for the bottom housing material's impact on sound and feel during typing.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch are similar in weight, with both being medium-heavy. The Oil King has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Cold Plum has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams. Both switches provide a substantial typing experience with a slightly heavier touch compared to lighter switches. The Oil King may be preferred by those looking for a slightly lighter feel, while the Cold Plum offers a slightly heavier push that some users may find more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing comfort and the desired level of key resistance.
Travel distance
The Gateron Oil King linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that the Oil King has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Cold Plum. A shorter travel distance can be preferred by gamers for faster response times, while a longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying keystroke depth. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, so choosing between the two would depend on personal preference. Ultimately, both switches will provide a tactile experience when typing or gaming, despite their slight difference in travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Oil King comes in at $6.50, whereas the Outemu Cold Plum comes in at $3.10.
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 comparing the sound qualities of the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, it is evident that both switches offer unique auditory profiles. The Oil King switch is known for its low-pitched and bassy sound, providing a deep and rich tone during key presses. On the other hand, the Cold Plum switch has a thocky sound profile, which is characterized by a satisfying and distinct typing experience. Ultimately, the sound produced by each switch will be influenced by factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used, but users can expect a pleasant and enjoyable auditory experience from both switches.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Oil King linear switch is described as creamy, silky, buttery, and polished, offering a smooth and effortless typing experience. These tactile qualities allow for a seamless and comfortable keystroke, enhancing the overall typing feel for users. On the other hand, information on the tactile feel of the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch is not available. Despite this, it can be inferred that the Cold Plum switch may provide a unique and satisfying typing experience similar to the Oil King switch, given the positive reputation of Outemu switches among enthusiasts.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Oil King is known for its low-pitched and bassy sound with a creamy, silky, buttery, and polished typing feel, the Cold Plum provides a thocky sound profile, and its tactile feel remains unknown. However, based on their respective reputations in the mechanical keyboard community, users can expect a high-quality typing experience from both switches, with similar results in terms of smoothness and satisfaction. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Oil King linear switch and the Outemu Cold Plum linear switch, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you prioritize a lower bottom out force and a buttery smooth typing experience with a low-pitched and bassy sound profile, then the Gateron Oil King may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly higher bottom out force and a thocky sound profile with a unique nylon construction, the Outemu Cold Plum might be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your desired typing experience.
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