Durock Light Tactile vs. Outemu Silent Yellow
An in-depth look at the Durock Light Tactile and the Outemu Silent Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Durock Light Tactile, a tactile switch, and the Outemu Silent Yellow, a linear switch. The Light Tactile switch from Durock stands out for its gentle tactility, offering a softer and smoother typing experience compared to other tactile switches. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow switch from Outemu is known for its silent operation, making it a great choice for those who need to type quietly. While the Light Tactile switch is categorized as neutral, mild, and polished, the Silent Yellow switch does not have any specific categories. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and needs. 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
52g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Durock Light Tactile and the Outemu Silent Yellow feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal material for RGB lighting purposes. However, while both switches have the same top housing material, the sound and feel may vary based on the bottom housing material.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the Light Tactile and the Silent Yellow utilize nylon. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This softer plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The qualities of the nylon bottom housing will impact the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, providing a different typing experience compared to switches with different bottom housing materials.
Overall, the use of polycarbonate top housings in both switches ensures a similar sharp and clear sound profile, while the differences in bottom housing materials provide distinct typing experiences. The split between the bottom and top housing qualities means that the bottom housing will have more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. Whether using the Durock Light Tactile or the Outemu Silent Yellow, users can expect a unique typing experience based on the combination of housing materials used in each switch.
Weight
The Durock Light Tactile tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 52 grams compared to the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch with an actuation force of 65 grams, making the Light Tactile easier to trigger. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Light Tactile requires 67 grams, while the Silent Yellow needs 80 grams, making the Silent Yellow heavier overall. The Light Tactile provides a medium-heavy typing experience, while the Silent Yellow offers a heavier and more substantial feel. Both switches have their merits depending on individual preference, with the Light Tactile being better for those who prefer lighter typing experiences and the Silent Yellow being more suitable for those who enjoy a more forceful push. Overall, considering the actuation and bottom out forces is important when selecting a switch to ensure it matches your typing style and comfort level.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch is equal, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. When comparing and contrasting the two switches, it can be said that users can expect a similar key press experience in terms of travel distance. This means that regardless of the switch selected, users can enjoy consistent and reliable keystrokes with a travel distance that remains the same. Both switches offer a standard travel distance which can provide a comfortable typing experience for users who prefer a moderate key press depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Light Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Tactile for $4.25.
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
When it comes to sound, the Durock Light Tactile switch offers a gentle and pleasant typing experience with a jelly-like sound signature that is soothing to the ears. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow switch's sound profile is currently unknown. Both switches can provide a suitable sound profile for various settings depending on your preference, but the Light Tactile's neutral sound may be more universally appealing.
In terms of feel, the Durock Light Tactile switch provides a mild tactility that is gentle on the fingers, making it a comfortable option for extended typing sessions. Additionally, the polished finish of the Light Tactile switch adds to its smooth and refined typing experience. Unfortunately, details on the feel of the Outemu Silent Yellow switch are not available at this time. If the Silent Yellow switch offers a similar mild and polished feel, users can expect a smooth and comfortable typing experience comparable to the Light Tactile switch.
Overall, both the Durock Light Tactile and Outemu Silent Yellow switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Light Tactile switch stands out for its gentle tactility and soothing sound profile, while the Silent Yellow switch may provide a comparable experience with its yet-to-be-determined characteristics. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, consider your preference for tactility and bottom out force. If you are looking for a softer, gentler tactile typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Durock Light Tactile switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a smoother linear typing experience, the Outemu Silent Yellow switch could be a better fit. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you desire.
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