Keygeek Briny vs. Outemu Silent Yellow Jade
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Briny and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Keygeek Briny and Outemu Silent Yellow Jade represent two distinct experiences for typists and gamers alike. The Briny, a linear switch characterized by its UPE stem and pure PA66 bottom housing, delivers a smooth keystroke without any tactile feedback, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer rapid key presses and clean key actuation. In contrast, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade offers a tactile switch experience that combines a quiet typing experience with a satisfying "thocky" sound profile. As part of Outemu's third iteration of silent tactile switches, the Yellow Jade features factory lubrication and a pronounced tactile bump, appealing to users who seek feedback during their typing. Each switch has its own merits: the Briny may be ideal for users prioritizing speed and minimal noise, while the Silent Yellow Jade caters to those who appreciate a more engaging typing feel without the clatter. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the optimal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of both the Keygeek Briny and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade switches are comprised entirely of nylon, a classic material well-regarded in the mechanical keyboard community. Both switches feature nylon for both the top and bottom housings, which contributes to a unique sound profile that many typists appreciate. Since nylon is a relatively softer plastic, it absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. As a result, users can expect a deeper, fuller sound profile from switches made of this material, whether they are using the Briny or the Silent Yellow Jade. Consequently, those who prioritize auditory feedback will likely experience similar results when typing on either switch.
While the use of nylon in both switch designs ensures that the sound produced is consistent, the Briny and Silent Yellow Jade models might still possess nuanced differences based on design or other components. When evaluating the overall typing experience, it's essential to consider factors such as the switch's stem design, the actuation force, and possibly even the spring inside. Each of these elements can influence how the switches feel and sound, despite the commonality of the nylon housing. In particular, while both will deliver that characteristic deep and round sound profile, the tactile feedback during typing could vary slightly if other internal components differ.
Ultimately, since both the Keygeek Briny and Outemu Silent Yellow Jade utilize the same nylon materials for their housings, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound dampening and overall auditory response. However, the impact of the bottom and top housings cannot be overlooked, as the bottom housing typically influences the bottom-out sound and feel of a key press, while the top housing contributes more to the sonic feedback when releasing a key. As such, even with the same nylon material, the sensation and acoustic profile of each switch will still depend on the intricate interplay of their respective design parameters.
Weight
When comparing the Keygeek Briny linear switch to the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch, we can observe some similarities and differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches share the same actuation force of 50 grams, making them feel similar during the initial keystroke, which can be beneficial for typists looking for ease when pressing keys over extended periods. However, the Silent Yellow Jade has a slightly higher bottom out force of 65 grams compared to the Briny's 60 grams. This makes the Jade switch feel a bit heavier at the bottom of the keypress, which could appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In this case, the Briny is the lighter option overall, while the Silent Yellow Jade leans towards the heavier side due to its increased bottom out force. The choice ultimately boils down to personal preference—those who prioritize a lighter feel may favor the Briny, while those who enjoy a more pronounced feedback with a slight resistance at bottoming out might prefer the Silent Yellow Jade.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch, we find that the Briny features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Silent Yellow Jade comes in slightly shorter at 3.3 mm. This difference highlights the contrast between the two: the Briny offers a more pronounced depth, which may appeal to those who appreciate a more substantial keypress feel, while the Silent Yellow Jade caters to those who prefer a quicker response with its shorter travel distance. Gamers, in particular, might lean towards the Silent Yellow Jade for its faster actuation; however, enthusiasts who enjoy a more hearty keypress may find the Briny to be more satisfying. Therefore, if you're aiming for a balance between responsiveness and depth, the choice between these two switches will ultimately hinge on your personal preference regarding travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Keygeek Briny has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Briny for $3.29.
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 Keygeek Briny linear switch is recognized for its balanced sound profile, which blends well with various mechanical keyboards without overpowering other acoustics. This quality makes the Briny suitable for environments where noise levels need to be controlled, allowing for a pleasant typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch is designed for a quieter typing experience, featuring a "thocky" sound that many find satisfying. As this switch is part of Outemu's silent tactile lineup, it minimizes sound without sacrificing the auditory feedback of keystrokes, making it ideal for users who appreciate a more subdued sound environment.
In terms of feel, the Keygeek Briny linear switch is characterized by its smooth, uninterrupted keystroke, allowing for rapid typing with minimal tactile feedback. This makes it an excellent choice for gamers and typists who prefer a seamless experience without the distraction of bumps or clicks. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade provides a tactile bump that adds a level of engagement to each keystroke, allowing users to feel when a key has been actuated. This tactile feedback can enhance typing accuracy and comfort for those who enjoy a bit of physical response from their switches.
Overall, while both the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch cater to different preferences, they each offer unique characteristics that contribute to their appeal. The Briny excels in creating a balanced sound profile with a smooth feel, making it a solid choice for users who prefer linear switches. Conversely, the Silent Yellow Jade combines a tactile bump with a quieter sound signature, enhancing the experience for those who value tactile feedback but still want to maintain a quieter workspace. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize sound, feel, or the combination of both in your mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Keygeek Briny linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch ultimately depends on your personal typing preferences and environment. If you value a smooth, balanced typing experience with a moderately lightweight feel, the Briny switch is an excellent choice, especially for those who prefer linear switches that allow for rapid key presses without any tactile feedback. Its 60-gram bottom-out force makes it suitable for extended typing sessions, ensuring comfort without fatigue. On the other hand, if you appreciate a more pronounced tactile experience along with a quieter operation, the Silent Yellow Jade is your go-to option. With a 65-gram bottom-out force and a satisfying "thocky" sound, it caters to users who enjoy the tactile feedback that enhances typing accuracy while remaining stealthy in quieter settings, such as offices or shared spaces. Therefore, whether you lean towards a linear, smooth action or a cushioned, tactile response will guide your decision between these two switches, allowing you to create a personalized and enjoyable typing experience tailored to your needs.
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