Bsun Pine vs. Outemu Yellow Silver
An in-depth look at the Bsun Pine and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Bsun Pine and the Outemu Yellow Silver. The Bsun Pine switch is a tactile switch that offers a unique typing experience with its sharp tactile bump and long pole stem, providing a distinct and quick bottom-out. It is favored by those who appreciate direct, no-nonsense tactility and is categorized as accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver switch is a linear switch known for its light actuation force and neutral sound profile, making it ideal for gamers and typists who prefer speediness and responsiveness. It is categorized as neutral. 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
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Pine and the Outemu Yellow Silver both feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for RGB lighting purposes. However, while both switches share this common feature, the nylon bottom housing of the Pine provides a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Yellow Silver. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
In terms of sound profile, the main difference between the two switches lies in the bottom housing material. The Pine's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound when typing, while the Yellow Silver's nylon bottom housing provides a similar effect. However, where they differ is in how they impact the overall typing experience. The bottom housing has more of an influence on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, affecting the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the top housing plays a larger role in the sound produced when releasing a key, emphasizing the importance of both housing materials for a well-rounded typing experience.
Overall, both switches offer unique sound profiles due to their different housing materials. While the top housings of the Bsun Pine and Outemu Yellow Silver are both polycarbonate, providing a sharp and clear sound, the nylon bottom housings offer distinct characteristics. The Pine's nylon bottom housing creates a fuller sound profile, while the Yellow Silver's nylon bottom housing offers a similar effect. Ultimately, the combination of these different housing materials in each switch contributes to the overall typing experience, allowing for a variety of sound profiles to suit different preferences.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Pine tactile switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch have some key differences. The Pine has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams compared to the Yellow Silver's 55 grams, making the Pine the heavier of the two. However, both switches share the same actuation force of 45 grams, meaning they will provide a similar initial typing experience in terms of activation pressure. When choosing between the two switches, considering personal preferences for lighter or heavier typing experiences is crucial. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Yellow Silver for extended typing sessions or gaming, while others may appreciate the heavier feel of the Pine for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to individual preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Bsun Pine tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, making it shorter than the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Pine switch falls into the category of shorter travel distances, which is favored by gamers for its faster response times. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver switch provides a deeper key press experience with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a quicker, more responsive feel or a more deliberate, in-depth press. In terms of travel distance, the Pine switch offers a shorter distance while the Yellow Silver switch provides a longer distance, catering to different preferences in keyboard switches.
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 Yellow Silver comes in at $3.40 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 tactile switch offers a unique and distinct typing experience with a sharp tactile bump, resulting in a potentially louder typing sound compared to the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, which is known for its neutral sound profile. The Pine switch may provide a more pronounced and audible typing feedback, which can be invigorating for some users. However, the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard build and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Bsun Pine tactile switch is characterized by its sharp and snappy tactile bump, providing a direct and responsive typing sensation. The switch offers an invigorating and sharp tactile feedback that can enhance the typing experience for those who prefer a more pronounced tactile response. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch is known for its lighter actuation force and smooth keystrokes, making it a favorable choice for gamers and typists who prioritize speed and responsiveness over tactile feedback.
Overall, the Bsun Pine tactile switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Pine switch excels in providing a sharp tactile feedback and potentially louder typing sound, making it a preferred option for those who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver switch offers a lighter actuation force and a neutral sound profile, catering to users who prioritize speed and smoothness in their typing experience. Both switches have their own strengths and are suitable for different preferences, so choosing between the two would depend on individual typing preferences and priorities. However, if you prefer a more tactile typing experience, the Bsun Pine switch may provide a similar satisfying feel as the Outemu Yellow Silver switch due to its sharp and snappy tactile feedback.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Bsun Pine tactile switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy tactile switch with a sharp tactile bump and fast action, the Bsun Pine switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light linear switch with a light actuation force and neutral sound profile, the Outemu Yellow Silver switch would be more suitable. Consider your typing needs, whether you prioritize tactility or speediness, to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches offer unique typing experiences, so choose the one that aligns best with your preferences.
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