Gateron CM vs. Outemu Silent Yellow
An in-depth look at the Gateron CM and the Outemu Silent Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron CM and Outemu Silent Yellow mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes clear that both offer unique features to cater to different preferences. The CM switch stands out for its full nylon housing, providing a deeper sound signature and smooth typing experience with its factory lube job. With a bouncy typing experience thanks to its dual-staged spring, the CM switch is ideal for those who enjoy a buttery and polished feel during typing sessions. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow switch lacks any specific standout features but may appeal to users looking for a more subtle and silent typing experience. 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
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Dual-staged 20mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Gateron CM and Outemu Silent Yellow switches both provide unique characteristics to the typing experience. The CM's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and creating a duller, rounder sound. In contrast, the Silent Yellow's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This difference in sound profiles can greatly affect the overall typing experience for users, with the CM providing a more muted sound compared to the Silent Yellow's clearer and more resonant sound.
While the nylon bottom housing of both the Gateron CM and Outemu Silent Yellow switches offer similar qualities in terms of sound profile, the nylon material's softer nature allows for a deeper and fuller sound to be produced. This consistency in bottom housing material between the two switches ensures that the typing experience in terms of sound production remains relatively similar regardless of the brand chosen. However, the top housing material plays a significant role in determining the overall sound profile, with the Gateron CM's nylon top housing providing a deeper sound compared to the crisper sound of the polycarbonate top housing in the Outemu Silent Yellow.
The split in housing materials for switches like the Gateron CM and Outemu Silent Yellow divides the qualities of each material between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on a switch, the bottom housing material will impact the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material will affect the sound when releasing a key. This split in housing materials allows for a more tailored typing experience, with users able to choose a switch based on the specific sound profile they prefer when both pressing down and releasing a key. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron CM and Outemu Silent Yellow switches will depend on personal preference for sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
The Gateron CM linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 55 grams compared to the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, which has a heavier actuation force of 65 grams. Both switches have a medium to heavy bottom out force, with the CM at 63.5 grams and the Silent Yellow at 80 grams. This means that the CM switch requires a lighter initial push to register a keystroke, making it more suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Silent Yellow switch provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for typing feel and the desired level of force needed for key registration.
Travel distance
The Gateron CM linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Gateron CM has a shorter travel distance compared to the Outemu Silent Yellow. The difference may not be substantial, but it can affect the overall feel and responsiveness of the switch. Gamers looking for a faster response time may prefer the Gateron CM with its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, those who prefer a deeper keypress may lean towards the Outemu Silent Yellow with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron CM has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CM for $4.25.
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 Gateron CM linear switch is known for its bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deeper and richer auditory experience during key presses. On the other hand, information regarding the sound profile of the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch is not available. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Gateron CM linear switch is often described as buttery, polished, creamy, and frictionless, offering a smooth and fluid typing experience with minimal resistance or friction. This results in a seamless, effortless, and uniform sensation with each keystroke. Conversely, details about the tactile feel of the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch are not provided.
In conclusion, the Gateron CM linear switch stands out for its rich and deep sound signature, accompanied by a buttery-smooth typing experience due to its full nylon housing and factory lubrication. While the sound and feel characteristics of the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch remain unknown, it is important to consider personal preferences and the overall keyboard setup when choosing between these switches. Ultimately, both options may deliver similar results in terms of sound and feel based on their linear switch design.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the Gateron CM linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, your decision may come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you're looking for. If you value a smoother, bouncier typing experience with a rich and deep sound profile, the Gateron CM switch may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and are looking for a silent typing experience, the Outemu Silent Yellow switch could be the better option for you. Consider factors such as bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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