Gateron Glory Red vs. Outemu Yellow Silver
An in-depth look at the Gateron Glory Red and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Glory Red and the Outemu Yellow Silver both offer intriguing options for users seeking a linear typing experience. The Glory Red switches are known for their smooth keystroke and slightly lighter feel, providing an enjoyable travel distance that many find comfortable for both typing and gaming. This makes them an appealing choice for typists who appreciate a fluid interaction with their keyboard without the distraction of tactile bumps or clicks. On the other hand, Outemu's Yellow Silver switches are celebrated for their light actuation force and neutral sound profile, which caters to gamers and typists who prioritize speed and responsiveness. This responsiveness ensures swift keystrokes, making it an ideal choice for fast-paced gaming scenarios. While both switches deliver a linear experience, their differing characteristics cater to a variety of preferences. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POK
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
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Glory Red and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches, significant differences arise that impact their respective sound profiles and overall typing experience. The Glory Red utilizes a nylon top housing, which is known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound. This characteristic is attributed to the soft nature of nylon, which tends to absorb sound waves, resulting in a more muted auditory experience. In contrast, the Outemu Yellow Silver features a polycarbonate top housing, a stiffer plastic that contributes to a sharper yet crisper sound profile. The resonant qualities of polycarbonate provide brightness to the acoustics, making it more suitable for users who prefer a more lively and clear sound while typing.
Interestingly, both switches employ nylon for their bottom housings, creating a common ground in one aspect of their design. The use of nylon in both instances allows for a deeper and fuller sound profile; however, the overall auditory experience varies based on the synergy between the top and bottom materials. In the case of the Glory Red, the combination of a nylon top and bottom enhances the muted sound signature, while in the Yellow Silver, the nylon bottom works alongside the polycarbonate top to segment the acoustic characteristics, lending a unique combination of softer and crisper sound elements. Thus, the compositional dynamics between the housing materials lead to distinct auditory experiences, despite a shared component in the bottom housing.
Ultimately, the type of sound produced during typing is influenced by both the top and bottom housings working together. The Glory Red's nylon top seamlessly absorbs and muffles sound, conveying a more subdued typing experience, while the Yellow Silver's polycarbonate top introduces clarity and sharpness that complements the softer characteristics of its nylon bottom. If one were to combine the nylon bottom from either switch with an equivalent material for the top, the resulting sound profile would reflect stronger similarities, showcasing how crucial the interplay of the selected materials is in producing an overall typing experience. By blending nylon and polycarbonate appropriately, one can tailor their keyboard experience to suit individual preferences, whether seeking deeper resonance or a pronounced clarity in sound.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, both have the same actuation force of 45 grams, which means that users will experience a similar level of resistance when triggering a keystroke. This consistency in actuation force can benefit users who prefer a lighter switch for prolonged typing or gaming sessions, as both switches require the same effort to activate. However, there's a notable difference in bottom out force: the Yellow Silver switches have a bottom out force of 55 grams, which indicates a more substantial feel when pressing the key all the way down. In contrast, the bottom out force for the Glory Red switches is unavailable, leaving it unclear how it compares in that aspect. Therefore, while both switches provide a light actuation force, the Outemu Yellow Silver is heavier when fully pressed down, offering a more pronounced tactile experience. Users seeking a lighter switch for comfort may prefer the Glory Red, while those who enjoy a firmer keystroke with a stronger bottom out might choose the Yellow Silver.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Glory Red linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Gateron Glory Red has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Yellow Silver features a longer travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Glory Red the shorter option, appealing to those who prioritize a more responsive keypress, such as gamers who appreciate quicker actuation times. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Yellow Silver provides a more pronounced feedback experience, which may be preferred by users who appreciate a deeper and more substantial press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference; if you lean toward a snappier feel, the Gateron Glory Red might be the better fit, while the Outemu Yellow Silver could cater to those who favor a traditional, more deliberate keystroke.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Glory Red has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Glory Red for $4.19.
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
When comparing the sound profiles of the Gateron Glory Red and the Outemu Yellow Silver, the Gateron Glory Red is known for its pleasing sound quality that complements its smooth keystroke. The sound is subtly present without being overwhelming, making it suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver has a neutral sound profile, which exhibits moderate volume characteristics. This neutrality ensures that the switch won’t disturb those around you while still providing satisfactory auditory feedback. Both switches, therefore, can coexist in environments like homes or offices where noise levels need to be controlled, but the Glory Red may offer a slightly more pleasant tonal quality.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Glory Red switch is celebrated for its smooth keystroke and enjoyable travel distance, making typing satisfying and effortless. Its lighter actuation force contributes to a responsive experience, keying in on a delightful tactile sensation. The Outemu Yellow Silver similarly boasts a light actuation force, facilitating fast and responsive key presses ideal for gaming as well as typing. While both switches prioritize lightness and responsiveness, the Glory Red’s distinct smoothness versus the Yellow Silver’s swiftness can appeal to different preferences among typists and gamers alike.
In conclusion, both the Gateron Glory Red and Outemu Yellow Silver switches present unique advantages in sound and feel, catering to different user preferences. While the Glory Red offers a more refined sound and an exceptionally smooth typing experience, the Yellow Silver excels in its neutral sound profile and speed-oriented design. Ultimately, both switches promise enjoyable experiences for users, making them solid choices whether your focus is on gaming or typing efficiency. With slight variances in sound and tactile feedback, users can select the one that best fits their personal style and environment, leading to similar overall satisfaction in performance.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron Glory Red and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switches, consider your specific needs and preferences for typing or gaming. If you prioritize a smoother keystroke with a lighter touch, the Gateron Glory Red might be the ideal choice for you. Its effortless travel distance can provide an enjoyable typing experience, particularly if you enjoy long typing sessions or favor a light feel. However, if you're looking for something more versatile that balances both gaming and typing, the Outemu Yellow Silver could be the switch for you. With a medium-light bottom-out force and a neutral sound profile, it strikes a healthy balance between speed and comfort, making it suitable for various tasks, whether you’re a gamer who values responsiveness or a typist who appreciates a consistent feel. Ultimately, your choice should reflect how you intend to use your keyboard, the environment in which you'll use it, and your personal tactile preferences.
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