TTC Iron vs. Outemu Silent Yellow Jade
An in-depth look at the TTC Iron and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between the TTC Iron linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch presents a unique opportunity to tailor your typing experience to your preferences. The TTC Iron is celebrated for its pronounced clacky sound signature and remarkably light actuation, providing a satisfying typing experience that is both precise and enjoyable. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade offers a quiet, tactile typing experience with a satisfying "thocky" sound, perfect for those seeking a quieter but still satisfying tactile response. Each switch has its own set of characteristics that may appeal to different users based on their typing style and 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
41g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Iron and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade switches both contribute to a deeper sound profile, but in slightly different ways. The POM top housing of the Iron creates a more muted sound compared to the nylon top housing of the Silent Yellow Jade, which elicits a fuller sound. While both materials absorb sound to some extent, the softer nature of nylon allows for a rounder and duller sound, giving the Silent Yellow Jade a unique auditory experience.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing, both switches have POM and nylon housings that contribute to the overall sound profile. The POM bottom housing of the Iron contributes to a deep and pleasing sound similar to its top housing, while the nylon bottom housing of the Silent Yellow Jade adds to the fuller sound profile of the switch. The split between the top and bottom housing materials allows for a balanced experience when typing on these switches, with each material playing a significant role in the overall sound and feel.
In terms of functionality, the housing materials of both switches play a crucial role in determining the sound outcome when using them. The POM and nylon materials offer different levels of sound absorption and impact on the typing experience. While the Iron's POM housing creates a more muted and deeper sound, the Silent Yellow Jade's nylon housing contributes to a fuller and deeper sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
The TTC Iron linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 41 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In comparison, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. The actuation force for both switches is relatively similar, but the bottom out force of the Silent Yellow Jade is higher, offering a slightly heavier typing experience overall. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and desired level of feedback.
Travel distance
The TTC Iron linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Iron has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Silent Yellow Jade. For those who prefer a more responsive feel, the Silent Yellow Jade with the shorter travel distance might be more suitable. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer shorter travel distances for quicker response times. However, those who prefer a more substantial key press may find the Iron switch with its longer travel distance to be more satisfying. 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 TTC Iron has an MSRP of $5.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Iron for $4.30.
The Outemu Silent Yellow Jade 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 TTC Iron linear switch is characterized by a clacky sound, providing a sharp and satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke. In contrast, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch offers a quiet typing experience with a "thocky" sound, designed for those who prefer a more subdued auditory feedback. When it comes to feel, the Iron switch is known for its easy-to-press actuation, requiring minimal force and providing a light and effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the feel of the Silent Yellow Jade switch is not specified, but given its tactile nature, it is likely to offer a more pronounced tactile bump for those who enjoy a more tactile typing experience.
In conclusion, the TTC Iron linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Iron switch provides a pronounced clacky sound and easy-to-press actuation, catering to users who enjoy a more audible and light typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow Jade switch offers a quiet typing experience with a tactile bump, appealing to users who prefer a more subdued sound and a more pronounced tactile feel. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel, as both switches offer unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the TTC Iron linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch, consider your preference for sound and feel. If you enjoy a pronounced clacky sound with easy-to-press keys, the TTC Iron may be the perfect fit for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a quieter, tactile typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade could be the ideal choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on how you value sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard switch. Whether you prioritize swift, light actuation or a punchy, tactile bump, both switches offer unique characteristics to enhance your typing experience. Select the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences to fully enjoy your mechanical keyboard.
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