Bsun Pine vs. Outemu Silent Yellow
An in-depth look at the Bsun Pine and the Outemu Silent Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Pine tactile switch to the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, it's clear that each offers a unique typing experience. The BSUN Pine switches are renowned for their sharp tactile bump and long pole stem, providing a distinct and quick bottom-out for those who value direct tactility. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow switches are known for their silence, making them ideal for those who prefer a quiet typing experience. The Pine switch is characterized as 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', and 'Snappy', while the Silent Yellow switch does not have any specific descriptors. Each switch has its own strengths and weaknesses, and choosing between them ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style; 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Bsun Pine and the Outemu Silent Yellow use polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when typing. This is because polycarbonate is a stiff plastic that resonates well, creating a clear sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. However, while both switches share the same material for their top housing, the difference in their bottom housing material, with the Pine using nylon and the Silent Yellow using polycarbonate, leads to variations in sound profile.
The nylon bottom housing of the Bsun Pine provides a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Outemu Silent Yellow. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use this material. The combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the Bsun Pine allows for a balance of sharpness and fullness in sound, while the Silent Yellow's consistent use of polycarbonate throughout may provide a more consistent typing experience in terms of sound.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in a switch can have a significant impact on the sound and feel of typing. While both the Bsun Pine and the Outemu Silent Yellow utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, the difference in their bottom housing materials contributes to variations in sound profiles. Whether preferring a sharper and crisper sound (Bsun Pine) or a deeper and fuller sound (Outemu Silent Yellow), understanding the impact of housing materials can help users select the switch that best suits their preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Pine tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, it is evident that the Pine is lighter overall. The Pine has an actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Silent Yellow's 65 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes on the Pine. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Pine requires 65 grams, while the Silent Yellow needs 80 grams, indicating that the Silent Yellow is heavier in this aspect. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their force requirements. Some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Pine for longer typing sessions, while others may enjoy the heavier feel of the Silent Yellow for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Bsun Pine tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it shorter than the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Pine offers a quicker response time compared to the Silent Yellow, which may be preferred by gamers looking for a faster reaction speed. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow provides a slightly deeper keypress, which some may find more satisfying for typing or general use. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the specific needs of the user. If travel distance is the main factor for decision-making, then the Pine would be the shorter option and the Silent Yellow would be the longer one.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Pine has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $3.70.
The Outemu Silent Yellow 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
In terms of sound, the BSUN Pine switch is known for producing a crisp and satisfying click with each keystroke, thanks to its sharp tactile bump. The Outemu Silent Yellow switch, on the other hand, is designed to minimize noise, offering a quiet and smooth typing experience. While the Pine switch may be louder due to its tactile feedback, the Silent Yellow switch provides a silent alternative for those who prefer a quieter typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the BSUN Pine switch is described as offering an invigorating tactile feedback with a sharp and snappy feel. This means that each keypress is accompanied by a distinct tactile bump, providing a responsive and immersive typing sensation. On the other hand, the feeling of the Outemu Silent Yellow switch is not specified in the information provided, so it is unclear how it compares in terms of tactile feedback and keypress experience.
Overall, the BSUN Pine tactile switch is best suited for those who enjoy a pronounced and responsive typing experience with a sharp tactile bump. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch is ideal for users who prefer a quieter typing experience without sacrificing smooth keypresses. Depending on your preference for noise level and tactile feedback, both switches can offer a satisfying typing experience, albeit with different characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a unique typing experience with a sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out, the BSUN Pine tactile switch would be a great choice for you. The Pine offers clear-cut feedback and fast action, making it a favorite among those who value direct tactility. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a linear switch without any tactile bump, the Outemu Silent Yellow switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for key feel and typing experience.
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