HMX Hibiscus vs. Outemu Silent Yellow
An in-depth look at the HMX Hibiscus and the Outemu Silent Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Hibiscus and the Outemu Silent Yellow present two intriguing options for users who appreciate the nuances of linear switches. The HMX Hibiscus is celebrated for its exceptional smoothness and pristine typing experience, boasting an ultra-light actuation force that exceeds 80% of competing switches. Its satisfyingly clacky, poppy sound signature adds an engaging auditory element that many typists find appealing. In contrast, the Outemu Silent Yellow switch excels in environments where noise reduction is a priority, offering a quieter performance without sacrificing the linear feel that gamers and typists alike crave. Each switch offers unique advantages: the Hibiscus for those who revel in tactile feedback and sound, and the Silent Yellow for those who require discretion without compromising on responsiveness. 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
42g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
T3
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
The housing materials of the HMX Hibiscus and the Outemu Silent Yellow switches present a clear contrast in terms of their top housings. The Hibiscus utilizes a nylon top housing, a classic material known for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature enables it to absorb more sound, resulting in a rounder and less resonant typing experience. In contrast, the Silent Yellow features a polycarbonate top housing, which is characterized by its stiffer composition. This stiffness contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making the typing experience more bright and lively. If one were to use both switches, they would notice that the Hibiscus produces that warm, muffled tone while the Silent Yellow is likely to deliver a more pronounced acoustic clarity.
Conversely, when it comes to the bottom housing, both the Hibiscus and Silent Yellow utilize nylon material. This commonality means that users can expect similar sound quality characteristics from both switches in terms of bottom-out noise. The nylon bottom housing in both switches absorbs sound effectively, contributing to the overall deeper and fuller sound profile when the key is bottomed out. This shared use of nylon means that while the top housings create differing sound signatures, the base impact remains consistent between the two, allowing for a diluted yet harmonious collaboration of sound.
In terms of overall performance, the differing top housing materials ultimately lead to distinct sound experiences despite having similar bottom configurations. The Hibiscus’s nylon top offers that muffled, warm sound on release, while the Silent Yellow’s polycarbonate top provides more clarity and definition as you let go of the key. Therefore, users may appreciate the full-bodied sound on bottoming out across both switches, while also experiencing a unique aural texture depending on which switch they are engaging with at the topside. This duality allows for a flexible audio experience depending on the user's preferences for typing acoustics.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, we see distinct differences in both actuation and bottom out forces that influence typing experience. The Hibiscus features a lighter actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it a better fit for users who prefer a softer touch, ideal for extended typing sessions or prolonged gaming without fatigue. In contrast, the Silent Yellow has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a noticeably heavier bottom out force of 60 grams, appealing to those who enjoy a more substantial, tactile feel while typing. The differences in both actuation and bottom out forces suggest that the Hibiscus is the overall lighter option, while the Silent Yellow provides a firmer push, catering to a preference for stronger feedback. Overall, choosing between these switches will depend on whether the user favors a lighter or heavier feel in their typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, we find that they exhibit a notable difference. The Hibiscus features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Silent Yellow extends to 4 mm. This makes the Hibiscus the shorter option, which may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times, as shorter travel distances typically facilitate quicker actuation. Conversely, the Silent Yellow, with its longer 4 mm travel, might be more suitable for those who prefer a more pronounced and gentle pressing experience. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will hinge on your preference for responsiveness versus depth—if you lean towards rapid actions, the Hibiscus would be preferable, but if you enjoy a more substantial feel, the Silent Yellow would be the way to go.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Hibiscus has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hibiscus for $2.99.
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
The HMX Hibiscus linear switch produces a satisfyingly clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature that enhances the tactile experience of typing. The vibrant acoustics deliver an engaging auditory feedback that many users find enjoyable, making each keystroke feel more dynamic. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch lacks a specified sound profile, meaning its acoustic qualities remain unknown. However, it’s important to recognize that the sound of any switch can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard construction, material, and keycap choice, which will play a significant role in determining the final auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Hibiscus switch is renowned for its ultra-light actuation force that contributes to a smooth and effortless typing experience. This means users can expect a fluidity during their typing sessions, making it particularly suitable for long durations without causing finger fatigue. Unfortunately, there is no detailed description available for the feel of the Outemu Silent Yellow switch, leaving its tactile experience and resistance characteristics uncharted.
In conclusion, the HMX Hibiscus linear switch stands out for its engaging sound signature and ultra-light actuation force, promoting smooth and enjoyable typing sessions. The Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch has an undisclosed sound profile and feel, limiting our ability to make a direct comparison. If you prefer a more lively sound experience coupled with a smooth feel, the Hibiscus is an excellent choice. If you’re exploring more muted options with unknown qualities, the Silent Yellow may still be worth considering, potentially yielding a different yet satisfactory typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Hibiscus linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch ultimately depends on your specific preferences and typing needs. If you prioritize a lightweight typing experience with an incredibly smooth feel and enjoy the satisfying clacky, poppy, and crispy sound that accompanies it, the Hibiscus is the right choice for you. It’s especially ideal for those who type quickly or for long periods without tiring easily, as its 48-gram actuation force helps reduce finger fatigue. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial feel with a slightly heavier bottom-out force of 60 grams and are looking for a switch that primarily focuses on a quieter experience, the Silent Yellow would be a better fit. While it may lack the distinct sound profile of the Hibiscus, it's great for environments where noise is a concern, such as shared workspaces or late-night gaming sessions. Ultimately, consider your typing style, environment, and sound preferences to make an informed decision between these exquisite switches.
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