TKC Kiwi vs. Outemu Yellow Silver
An in-depth look at the TKC Kiwi and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The TKC Kiwi and the Outemu Yellow Silver are two distinct mechanical keyboard switches, each with unique features and advantages. The Kiwi is a tactile switch that enhances your typing experience with a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press. Its satisfyingly snappy sound profile contributes to a truly immersive typing experience. Additionally, the Kiwi switches come lightly factory lubed, ensuring a smooth and effortless typing experience right out of the box. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver switch is a linear switch known for its light actuation force and neutral sound profile. This makes it particularly favorable for gamers and typists who prefer a speedy and responsive typing experience. Both switches offer their own merits, providing different preferences for different individuals. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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 housing materials of the TKC Kiwi and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches differ significantly. The Kiwi features a UHWMPE (Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene) top housing, while the Yellow Silver has a polycarbonate top housing. While both materials contribute to a resonant sound profile, they offer distinct audio characteristics. The Kiwi's UHWMPE top housing produces bright and resonant clacks, providing a lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. Moreover, the polycarbonate material allows for translucency, making it ideal for switches that are compatible with RGB lighting.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Kiwi utilizes UHWMPE, while the Yellow Silver employs nylon. The UHWMPE bottom housing of the Kiwi provides a bright sound signature that complements the top housing. This combination results in switches that offer a vibrant and resonant sound when typing. Conversely, the nylon bottom housing of the Yellow Silver leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to UHWMPE.
Although both switches may have different housing materials for the top and bottom, the impact of each housing material varies depending on the user's interaction with the switch. When pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing come into play, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. In this case, the nylon bottom housing of the Yellow Silver will contribute to a deeper and fuller sound experience upon keypress. On the other hand, the top housing of the switch, whether UHWMPE or polycarbonate, will have a more noticeable impact on the sound when the key is released. Thus, while the specific materials may differ, a user can expect similar results in terms of sound characteristics between the two switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Kiwi has an actuation force of 43 grams, while the Yellow Silver has an actuation force of 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Kiwi requires 67 grams, whereas the Yellow Silver only requires 55 grams. This means that the Kiwi switch is slightly lighter in terms of actuation force, but heavier when it comes to bottoming out. The Yellow Silver, on the other hand, is slightly heavier in terms of actuation force, but lighter for bottoming out.
Considering the weight of the switches, some individuals may prefer a lighter actuation force to type for longer periods without fatigue, making the Yellow Silver a suitable choice. On the contrary, those who desire a more substantial typing experience might prefer the heavier actuation force provided by the Kiwi.
Overall, both switches offer different resistance levels to cater to individuals with varying preferences. It is worth noting that despite the slight differences in force requirements, both switches fall within the medium range. Therefore, if one desires a similar typing experience in terms of force, either switch would provide similar results.
Travel distance
The TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches provide a consistent and satisfying keystroke experience as users press down on the keys. Whether it's the Kiwi or the Yellow Silver, users can expect a 4 mm travel distance, ensuring that their typing or gaming sessions are comfortable and responsive. Both switches offer a similar level of tactile feedback and actuation force, allowing for precise and efficient typing. In terms of travel distance, these switches are equally efficient and suitable for various tasks.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the TKC Kiwi comes in at $8.00, whereas the Outemu Yellow Silver comes in at $3.40.
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
In terms of sound, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch is known for its low-pitched sound profile. This means that it produces a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. The sound of the Kiwi switch is described as neutral, which means it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile. This makes the switch suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user and whether you plan to use them at home or work. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
On the other hand, information about the sound profile of the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch is not provided. However, since it is described as having a neutral profile, it can be assumed that it also has a moderate sound profile similar to the Kiwi switch. This makes it suitable for a variety of users and purposes. It is worth mentioning that the sound of the switch can also be affected by the choice of keyboard board and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch offers a stepped and accented tactile experience. Stepped switches provide a two-stage feel with some pre-travel and/or post-travel, making them feel more mild compared to hypertactile switches. Accented switches, which are frequently used to describe certain types of tactile switches, provide a medium amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, the Kiwi switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish. This results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel, which can be attributed to either the materials used or factory lubing.
There is no available information about the feel of the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch. However, based on the description of the Kiwi switch, it can be assumed that the Yellow Silver switch does not offer the same level of tactility or polished feel.
In conclusion, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch is best known for its low-pitched sound profile with a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press. It offers a satisfyingly snappy sound and a smooth, effortless typing experience. The Kiwi switch also provides a stepped and accented tactile feel, with a polished finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile and offers a light actuation force. Although the specific sound and feel qualities of the Yellow Silver switch are unknown, it can be assumed that it provides a neutral sound profile similar to the Kiwi switch. If a similar snappy and immersive typing experience with enhanced tactile feel and polished finish is desired, the TKC Kiwi switch would be the recommended choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch that enhances your typing experience with a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, the TKC Kiwi switch is the one for you. With a bottom out force of 67 grams, it provides a satisfyingly snappy sound profile and comes lightly factory lubed for a smooth and effortless typing experience right out of the box. The Kiwi switch also has a low-pitched sound profile, which adds a bass-heavy and mellow tone to your typing. Additionally, it offers a stepped feel, where you can feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel, along with an accented tactile response that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. These polished switches give off a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a light actuation force and a neutral sound profile, the Outemu Yellow Silver switch is the one to consider. With a bottom out force of 55 grams, it is suitable for gamers and typists who prioritize speediness and responsiveness. The Yellow Silver switch has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced, and whether you use it at home or work.
In closing, the TKC Kiwi switch is ideal for those seeking a tactile switch with a medium to medium-strong bump, a low-pitched sound profile, and a stepped, accented, and polished feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver switch is a great choice for those who prefer a light actuation force, a neutral sound profile, and a linear feel. Consider your preferences and requirements, and choose the switch that best aligns with your typing needs.
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