TTC Iron vs. Outemu Yellow Silver
An in-depth look at the TTC Iron and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Iron and Outemu Yellow Silver both offer unique features and benefits. The TTC Iron is well-known for its distinct clacky sound signature that adds an extra layer of satisfaction to the typing experience. It is incredibly light and offers swift actuation for fatigue-free typing sessions. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver switch is favored for its light actuation force and neutral sound profile, making it a great choice for gamers and typists looking for speediness and 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
41g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Iron and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches differ significantly in terms of the sound profile they produce. The POM top housing of the Iron creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Yellow Silver produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound. This difference in sound can greatly impact the overall typing experience for users who prefer a specific sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate top housing in the Yellow Silver switch allows for RGB lighting customization, adding a visual element to the typing experience that the Iron switch may lack.
While the POM bottom housing of the Iron shares similar sound qualities with its top housing, the nylon bottom housing of the Yellow Silver offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. This difference in sound can be particularly noticeable for users who prioritize sound feedback when typing. Additionally, the use of classic nylon material in the bottom housing of the Yellow Silver switch adds to its overall durability and longevity, making it a popular choice for users seeking a reliable switch option.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the TTC Iron and Outemu Yellow Silver switches play a significant role in the sound profile and overall typing experience offered by each switch. While both switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings, the qualities of these materials impact the sound and feel of each switch in unique ways. The POM and polycarbonate materials offer distinct sound profiles, with POM providing a deeper, more muted sound and polycarbonate offering a sharper, higher-pitched sound. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the Yellow Silver enhances the sound profile with a deeper and fuller sound compared to the POM bottom housing of the Iron. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference for sound and feel when typing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Iron linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, it is evident that the Iron is lighter in both aspects compared to the Yellow Silver. The Iron has an actuation force of 41 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Yellow Silver has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. The lightness of the Iron makes it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, such as during work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Yellow Silver offer a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push when typing. Overall, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference, with the Iron being lighter and the Yellow Silver being slightly heavier in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The TTC Iron linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Iron switch has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Yellow Silver switch. The Iron switch may be preferred by those looking for a faster response time due to its shorter travel distance, which is popular among gamers. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver switch with its slightly longer travel distance may provide a more substantial and deliberate feel when pressing down on the key. Both switches offer a different feel and response, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference whether you prefer a shorter or longer travel distance.
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 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 it comes to sound, the TTC Iron linear switch is characterized by a clacky profile, offering a sharp and snappy sound with each press. This adds a satisfying auditory element to typing sessions, appealing to users who enjoy a distinct sound experience. In contrast, the Outemu Yellow Silver switch features a neutral sound profile, making it a versatile option suitable for various environments. While the Iron switch provides a more pronounced and unique sound, the Yellow Silver switch offers a more understated and universal sound that may cater to a broader range of users.
In terms of feel, the TTC Iron linear switch is lauded for its easy-to-press quality, featuring a light actuation force that promotes swift and fatigue-free typing. This switch offers a smooth travel experience, enhancing typing precision and comfort. On the other hand, information on the feel of the Outemu Yellow Silver switch is unavailable. However, based on its light actuation force and focus on speediness and responsiveness, it may provide a similar ease of typing as the TTC Iron switch.
Overall, the TTC Iron linear switch stands out for its distinctive clacky sound profile and easy-to-press feel, making it an appealing choice for users seeking a tactile and responsive typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Yellow Silver switch offers a neutral sound profile and a focus on speed and responsiveness, catering to gamers and typists looking for a reliable and efficient switch option. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing performance.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Iron linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you appreciate a clacky sound and easy-to-press feel, the Iron switch would be a fantastic choice for a satisfying and swift typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a neutral sound profile and a light actuation force, the Yellow Silver switch may suit your need for speediness and responsiveness, especially for gaming or typing tasks. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so make your decision based on what best complements your typing style and preferences.
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