TKC Kiwi vs. Outemu Silent Yellow
An in-depth look at the TKC Kiwi and the Outemu Silent Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TKC Kiwi tactile switch to the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, it becomes evident that both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Kiwi switch stands out for its tactile feedback, providing a medium to medium-strong bump at the start of each key press, resulting in a satisfyingly snappy sound profile. Additionally, the lightly factory lubed Kiwi switches offer a smooth and effortless typing experience right out of the box. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow switch lacks tactile feedback, making it a popular choice for those who prefer a linear typing experience with minimal noise. While the Kiwi switch is categorized as stepped, low-pitched, neutral, accented, polished, the Silent Yellow switch does not fall into any specific categories. 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
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
UHWMPE
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold coated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The TKC Kiwi's housing materials of UHWMPE for the top and bottom present a bright sound signature with resonant clacks when typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow features a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, particularly suitable for RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the nylon bottom housing of the Silent Yellow produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound for a duller and rounder sound experience.
Both the TKC Kiwi and Outemu Silent Yellow offer unique acoustic experiences due to their different housing materials. While the Kiwi's UHWMPE provides a bright and resonant sound signature, the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent Yellow offers a clearer and more resonant sound profile. Additionally, the nylon bottom housing of the Silent Yellow absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound experience compared to the Kiwi's UHWMPE bottom housing. Depending on user preferences, each switch provides a distinct typing experience based on the housing materials used.
In terms of functionality, the housing materials of the TKC Kiwi and Outemu Silent Yellow play a crucial role in determining the overall sound and feel of the switches. While the top and bottom housings of the Kiwi are both UHWMPE, providing a bright and resonant sound, the Silent Yellow divides its housing materials with polycarbonate for the top and nylon for the bottom. This split in materials allows for different impacts on the sound when pressing down or letting go of a key, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing impacting the sound upon key release. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
The actuation and bottom out forces of the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch differ significantly. The Kiwi has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the Silent Yellow's 65 grams, making the Kiwi more responsive to keystrokes. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Kiwi requires 67 grams compared to the Silent Yellow's heavier 80 grams, resulting in a more substantial typing experience with the Silent Yellow. Both switches provide a different typing experience based on the force required, with the Kiwi offering a lighter touch and the Silent Yellow providing a heavier feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on the individual's preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equally responsive in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom when pressed. This means that whether you're using the Kiwi or the Silent Yellow, you can expect similar results in terms of the tactile feedback and overall feel of the switch. Both switches offer a consistent travel distance, providing a satisfying typing experience for users who prefer a 4 mm key travel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the TKC Kiwi comes in at $8.00, whereas the Outemu Silent Yellow 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
When it comes to sound, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a satisfying, bass-heavy tone that is not overly loud. This sound signature can enhance the overall typing experience, making it more immersive and enjoyable. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch is unknown, but it is important to note that the sound of a switch can be influenced by various factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch is known for its stepped, accented, and polished feel. This means that the switch has a two-stage tactile feedback, providing a satisfying bump during key presses without being too overwhelming. The polished finish of the switch also contributes to a smooth and refined typing experience, reducing friction and ensuring effortless key travel. Unfortunately, the feel of the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch is not specified, but it is essential to consider factors such as actuation force and key travel when evaluating the typing experience.
In conclusion, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch stands out for its distinctive sound profile and tactile feedback, offering a pleasing typing experience with a medium to medium-strong bump and low-pitched sound. The factory lubed switches ensure smooth operation right out of the box, enhancing the overall typing experience. While the specific characteristics of the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch are not provided, it is important to consider personal preferences and typing habits when choosing between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches are designed to enhance typing performance and comfort, so users can expect similar results in terms of quality and durability.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium to medium-strong bump for an enhanced typing experience, the TKC Kiwi switch would be a great choice with its satisfying sound profile and factory lubrication for smooth typing right out of the box. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavy linear switch with no tactile bump and a bottom-out force of 80 grams, the Outemu Silent Yellow switch would be a better fit. Consider your preferences in terms of actuation force, sound profile, and tactile feel when deciding between these two switches to ensure the best typing experience for your needs. Ultimately, the choice between the Kiwi and Silent Yellow switches will depend on your personal typing style and preferences.
Mentioned in this article
