Gateron Beer vs. Outemu Silent Yellow Jade
An in-depth look at the Gateron Beer and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Beer tactile switch to the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch, there are notable differences to consider. The Gateron Beer switch stands out with its unique translucent green design inspired by Tsingtao beer bottles, offering a refreshing take on mechanical keyboard aesthetics. With its lightweight feel and stepped tactility, the Beer switch provides a distinct typing experience that is both clacky and easy-to-press. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade switch appeals to those seeking a quiet typing experience with a satisfying "thocky" sound. With its factory-lubed design and punchy tactile bump, the Silent Yellow Jade switch offers a different tactile experience compared to the Beer switch. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, making them suitable options for various typing needs. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Beer and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade, one noticeable difference is in the materials used for both the top and bottom housings. The Beer features a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. In contrast, the Silent Yellow Jade utilizes a nylon top and bottom housing, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This distinction in material choice leads to a difference in the overall sound experience when typing on each switch.
Additionally, the aesthetic qualities of the housing materials differ between the Gateron Beer and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade. The Beer's polycarbonate housing offers translucency that is ideal for showcasing RGB lighting effects, enhancing the visual appeal of the switch. On the other hand, the nylon housing of the Silent Yellow Jade is more traditional in appearance and may not have the same level of visual impact as the clear polycarbonate housing. This contrast in aesthetics showcases how the choice of housing material can impact not only the sound profile but also the overall design of the switch.
Despite these differences, both the Gateron Beer and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade offer distinct advantages based on their housing materials. The use of polycarbonate in the Beer results in a crisper and more resonant sound profile, while the nylon housing of the Silent Yellow Jade produces a deeper and rounder sound. However, in terms of overall performance and typing experience, both switches can provide similar results in terms of comfort and functionality. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in sound profile and aesthetic design.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, it is clear that the Beer is lighter while the Silent Yellow Jade is heavier. The Beer has a light actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, whereas the Silent Yellow Jade has a medium-heavy actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. This means that the Beer requires less force to trigger a keystroke and bottom out compared to the Silent Yellow Jade. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time, the Beer would be a suitable option. On the other hand, individuals who seek a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Silent Yellow Jade. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gateron Beer tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches have fairly short travel distances compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, with the Beer being slightly longer than the Silent Yellow Jade. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Silent Yellow Jade for faster response times, while those who prefer a more substantial keypress may lean towards the slightly longer travel distance of the Beer. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Beer has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Beer for $4.59.
The Outemu Silent Yellow Jade comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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 Gateron Beer tactile switch offers a distinctive clacky sound signature that is sharp and snappy, giving off a crisp and bright sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch is known for its quiet typing experience with a satisfying "thocky" sound, providing a more muted and deep sound profile. Both switches offer unique auditory experiences, with the Beer providing a more pronounced click while the Silent Yellow Jade delivers a softer and more subdued sound.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is praised for being easy to press, requiring minimal force to activate and offering a gentle resistance during key presses. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the stepped tactility of the Beer switch provides a more subtle tactile feedback compared to the continuous curve of other tactile switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch does not have specific details available on its feel characteristics.
Overall, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is best known for its clacky sound signature, easy-to-press actuation, and stepped tactility, while the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch excels in providing a quiet typing experience with a satisfying thocky sound. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choosing between the two would depend on personal sound and feel preferences. However, if you prefer a lighter and more tactile feel with a distinctive click sound, the Gateron Beer switch may be the better option. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quiet typing experience with a softer sound profile, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer compelling features that will enhance your typing experience, albeit in different ways.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Beer tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prioritize a lighter actuation force and a unique clacky sound, the Gateron Beer may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier actuation force and a quieter "thocky" sound, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade could be the option that suits you best. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so choose based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for your typing style.
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