Huano Acacia vs. Outemu Yellow Silver
An in-depth look at the Huano Acacia and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Huano Acacia and the Outemu Yellow Silver are two noteworthy options that cater to different preferences while both offering linear performance. The Acacia switch is celebrated for its medium-light weight, generous factory lubrication, and minimal stem wobble, resulting in an excellent typing experience right out of the box. This makes it an ideal choice for users who appreciate a smooth keystroke without the need for extensive customization. Conversely, the Yellow Silver switch from Outemu stands out for its light actuation force and neutral sound profile, which is particularly appealing to gamers and typists who value speed and responsiveness. While both switches deliver satisfying performance, the Acacia leans towards a comfortable, everyday typing experience, whereas the Yellow Silver caters to a fast-paced style of use. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Huano Acacia and the Outemu Yellow Silver exhibit a notable similarity in their top housing material, which is polycarbonate. Both switches benefit from the properties of polycarbonate, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that is characterized by clarity and resonance. This stiffer plastic not only produces a more defined auditory experience but also enhances the aesthetic appeal of the switches, particularly when RGB lighting is employed. The transparency of polycarbonate makes it an optimal choice for switches intended to showcase illumination, allowing the vibrant colors to shine through effectively. Since the top housing for both switches shares this material, users can expect similar results in terms of sound articulation and visual appeal through RGB effects.
In contrast, the bottom housing of the two switches diverges in material, as both the Huano Acacia and the Outemu Yellow Silver utilize nylon for this component. Nylon is known for producing a deeper, fuller sound profile due to its softer texture, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a rounder, less sharp sound quality, enriching the typing experience in a manner distinct from the crispness provided by the polycarbonate top. The combination of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches thus ensures a deeper auditory experience when the key is pressed, making the tactile and auditory feedback during use more pronounced.
When considering the overall synergy between the top and bottom housings of each switch, it becomes clear how they complement each other despite using different materials for the bottom. The polycarbonate top housing brings forth clarity and resonance when releasing a key, while the nylon bottom housing enhances the impact of the typing event with a fuller, more rounded sound. Therefore, while the Huano Acacia and the Outemu Yellow Silver may use different materials in their bottom housings, their concurrent use of polycarbonate on top allows for a cohesive performance characteristic—balancing clear, sharp notes with deeper sounds, ensuring that each switch provides a well-rounded auditory and tactile experience for the user.
Weight
Both the Huano Acacia linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch share identical specifications regarding actuation and bottom out forces, each requiring a pull of 45 grams to register a keystroke and 55 grams to fully bottom out. This similarity means that users will experience comparable performance in terms of typing feel and response, whether they are engaging in extensive typing sessions at work or indulging in marathon gaming. With both switches categorized as medium-light, they are more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch, reducing fatigue over long periods. Therefore, both switches cater to users seeking a balanced combination of responsiveness and comfort, making them excellent choices for everyday use and extended gameplay alike.
Travel distance
The Huano Acacia linear switch features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Acacia provides a shorter travel distance compared to the Yellow Silver, which aligns with the trend towards quicker responsiveness favored by gamers. A shorter travel distance, like that of the Acacia, allows for faster key presses, making it suitable for those who prioritize speed in their typing or gaming experience. In contrast, the Yellow Silver, with its longer travel distance, may offer a more traditional feel, providing a slight sense of depth that some users prefer. Ultimately, choosing between these switches depends on personal preference for responsiveness versus a more cushioned key press.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Huano Acacia comes in at $3.39, whereas the Outemu Yellow Silver comes in at $3.40.
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 Huano Acacia linear switch is known for its relatively quiet operation, making it a suitable choice for environments where noise might be an issue. The Yellow Silver switch, on the other hand, features a neutral sound profile that offers a balanced experience; it has a moderate sound level, which can adapt well to various environments, whether at home or in a workplace setting. This makes both switches relatively unobtrusive, providing a satisfactory sound experience without drawing excessive attention, ideal for typists who value a less disruptive auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the Acacia switch stands out with its medium-light weight, which translates to a smooth and comfortable typing experience. Its generous factory lubrication enhances the glide of the key press, minimizing stem wobble and contributing to an overall satisfying tactile experience right out of the box. The Yellow Silver switch, while also designed for speed and responsiveness, features a light actuation force catering particularly well to gamers and users who prefer a quick response time. Though they differ in actuation force, both switches provide a smooth typing experience that can satisfy users looking for linear options.
Considering the available information, both the Huano Acacia and Outemu Yellow Silver linear switches offer appealing qualities that cater to different preferences. The Acacia is perfect for those who seek a smooth and quiet switch with supportive lubrication, making it ideal for extensive typing sessions. Meanwhile, the Yellow Silver serves those looking for a quicker response and a neutral sound, making it suitable for agile gaming. Ultimately, while these switches provide unique experiences, both can deliver satisfying results, whether you're typing or gaming, depending on your specific needs and preferences.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Huano Acacia linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch should align with your specific preferences and priorities. If you value a silky typing experience with excellent factory lubrication and minimal stem wobble, the Acacia might be the better option for you. Its medium-light bottom-out force of 55 grams provides a comfortable feel that caters well to typists who appreciate smooth keystrokes and an overall pleasant typing experience. Conversely, if you are a gamer or someone who prioritizes speed and responsiveness, the Yellow Silver is a strong contender. With its light actuation force and neutral sound profile, it excels in fast-paced environments, allowing for swift key presses without a disruptive noise. Ultimately, if your primary focus is seamless, gratifying typing with a touch of luxury, go for the Acacia; but if your priority lies in quick gaming performance and versatility in any setting, the Yellow Silver is your switch of choice. By considering these factors, you can confidently select the switch that best meets your needs.
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