Outemu Crystal vs. Outemu Silent Yellow Jade
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch, there are some key differences to consider. The Crystal switch offers a smooth and linear typing experience with a neutral sound profile, making it a great choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow Jade switch provides a tactile typing experience with a satisfying "thocky" sound, perfect for those who enjoy a bit more feedback while typing. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Crystal and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade, one of the main differences lies in the material used for the top housing. The Crystal features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, ideal for those who prefer a crisp and resonant sound. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow Jade utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile that absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound. This contrast highlights how the housing material can significantly impact the overall sound profile of a switch.
Another point of comparison between the two switches is the material used for the bottom housing. Both the Crystal and the Silent Yellow Jade feature polycarbonate and nylon bottom housings respectively, each contributing to the overall sound and feel of the switch. The polycarbonate bottom housing in the Crystal enhances the sharp and clear sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing in the Silent Yellow Jade adds to the deeper and fuller sound experience. This difference in bottom housing material showcases how a switch's construction can affect both the typing sound and the tactile feel when pressing down on the keys.
Overall, while the Outemu Crystal and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade have distinct housing materials for both the top and bottom housings, their qualities ultimately complement each other to create a unique typing experience. The Crystal's polycarbonate housings produce a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the Silent Yellow Jade's nylon housings offer a deeper and fuller sound. By understanding the impact of housing materials on sound and feel, keyboard enthusiasts can choose a switch that best suits their preferences for typing and gaming experiences. Regardless of the differences in housing materials, both switches provide excellent options for those looking to customize their mechanical keyboards.
Weight
The Outemu Crystal linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch with a 50-gram actuation force. In terms of bottom out force, the Crystal requires 55 grams while the Silent Yellow Jade needs 65 grams. This makes the Crystal switch lighter overall, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow Jade switch provides a heavier push feel, which some users may find more satisfying for a solid typing sensation. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose based on their preferences for force feedback during typing.
Travel distance
The Outemu Crystal linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer of the two options. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Crystal switch is more suitable for those who prefer a deeper key press with a longer distance to travel, while the Silent Yellow Jade switch would be ideal for those looking for a quicker, more responsive key press with a shorter travel distance. Both switches offer different experiences based on personal preferences, with the Crystal switch providing a more traditional feel and the Silent Yellow Jade switch catering to those who prioritize speed and efficiency. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40, whereas the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade comes in at $3.10.
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
The Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch offer distinctly different typing experiences in terms of sound and feel. The Crystal switch produces a neutral sound profile, described as chirpy and high-pitched, adding a unique touch to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow Jade switch is renowned for its quiet and satisfying "thocky" sound, providing a tactile bump with each keystroke. In terms of feel, the Crystal switch offers a polished typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel, while the Silent Yellow Jade switch's feel remains unknown.
Overall, users can expect a unique linear typing experience with the Crystal switch, featuring an elastic feel and medium-light weight, combined with its chirpy sound profile. Conversely, the Silent Yellow Jade switch offers a quiet and tactile typing experience with a punchy tactile bump and a satisfying thocky sound. Both switches offer their own unique qualities, providing users with a variety of options to choose from based on their preferences in sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch, you should consider your preference for typing feel and sound. If you enjoy a smooth and refined typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force and a neutral sound profile, then the Crystal switch is the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a quiet and tactile typing experience with a satisfying "thocky" sound, along with a slightly heavier bottom out force, then the Silent Yellow Jade switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what type of typing experience you are looking for in your mechanical keyboard.
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