Gateron Melodic vs. Outemu Silent Yellow

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron Melodic and the Outemu Silent Yellow offer distinct experiences tailored to different preferences. The Gateron Melodic stands out in the clicky switch category, boasting advancements such as smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems, which enhance both the classic clicky sound and tactile feedback while maintaining a buttery smooth typing experience. This invigorating switch is perfect for typists who enjoy the auditory and tactile feedback that a clicky switch provides, making each keystroke feel satisfying and responsive. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow presents a stark contrast as a linear switch, providing a quiet and smooth operation without the audible click. This makes it an excellent choice for those who prefer a more subdued typing experience, whether for late-night gaming sessions or office environments where noise control is essential. Both switches cater to specific user needs 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

Gateron Melodic Clicky

Outemu Silent Yellow Linear

$6.50

$6.00 per 10

$3.10 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Melodic and the Outemu Silent Yellow, we find that both switches feature polycarbonate for their top housing. This commonality leads to notable similarities in their sound profiles. The use of polycarbonate creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper auditory experience due to its stiffness, which enhances the clarity and resonance of each keystroke. Furthermore, the translucency of the polycarbonate allows RGB lighting to shine through effectively, making both switches visually appealing for illuminated setups. Therefore, users of either switch can expect a bright sound that accentuates the mechanical experience, particularly when RGB lighting is involved.

In contrast, the bottom housings of both switches are made from nylon, which contributes to a distinct sound profile that is markedly different from the top housing's characteristics. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs sound more effectively than polycarbonate, resulting in a deeper, fuller auditory response during typist interactions. This is particularly significant for typing experiences, as the bottom housing will mostly influence the sound and feel when bottoming out keys. Thus, while the top housings of both switches may produce brighter sounds, the nylon bottom provides a richer, rounder sound, affecting the overall acoustic experience of the switches when in use.

Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate tops and nylon bottoms in both the Gateron Melodic and the Outemu Silent Yellow allows for a balanced sound profile. While the top housings contribute brightness and clarity, the nylon bottoms provide warmth and fullness, leading to a versatile typing experience. Users can enjoy a well-rounded auditory output, where the clearness of the top contributes to higher-pitched tones, while the softness of the bottom adds a fulfilling depth. Therefore, despite minor differences in branding and design, both switches deliver a cohesive and enjoyable mechanical experience when combined in their respective configurations.

Weight

When comparing the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, notable differences in actuation force emerge, while their bottom out forces align. The Melodic switch, while missing a specified actuation force, has a bottom out force of 60 grams, which is classified as medium. In contrast, the Outemu Silent Yellow boasts an actuation force of 45 grams, also leading to a bottom out force of 60 grams. This means that while both switches bottom out at the same weight, the Silent Yellow requires less force to actuate, making it the lighter option. This can appeal to users seeking a more effortless typing experience, especially beneficial during extended work or gaming sessions. Meanwhile, the Gateron Melodic's undefined actuation force may suggest a different tactile experience, possibly leaning towards being heavier or more substantial, thus attracting those who prefer a stronger push feel when typing.

Travel distance

The Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch both feature a travel distance of 4 mm, which means that users will experience the same amount of key travel when pressing down on either switch. This equal travel distance results in a similar tactile feedback and keystroke depth, providing a comparable typing experience. Therefore, whether choosing the Melodic with its clicky feedback or the Silent Yellow with its smooth linear action, users can expect identical travel characteristics that enhance their typing or gaming performance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Gateron Melodic clicky switch offers a distinctive auditory experience characterized by its resonant and crunchy sound profiles. The resonant nature of the Melodic means it produces a higher-pitched, clean, and sharp click when pressed, immersing the user in a rich auditory landscape. This sound is complemented by the crunchy aspect that recalls the delightful sound of stepping on crisp autumn leaves, providing a nostalgic and satisfying auditory feedback. In contrast, the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch does not have any described sound qualities, which indicates it is likely geared towards a quieter typing experience, appealing to users who prefer to minimize sound during use.

When it comes to the tactile experience, the Melodic excels with a buttery and invigorating feel. The buttery nature ensures that each keystroke is smooth and fluid, delivering a seamless typing experience that promotes comfort during extended use. Coupled with its invigorating feedback, this switch offers a pronounced actuation force that feels snappy and reactive, engaging the typist with every press. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow does not have any defined tactile qualities available, suggesting that its feel remains unspecified, which leaves potential users without guidance on its performance attributes.

Overall, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch stands out in terms of both sound and feel, providing satisfying auditory and tactile feedback that enhances the typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch is tailored for those who prioritize stealth, lacking specific information on its acoustic and tactile feedback. If you are seeking a vibrant and engaging typing experience, the Melodic will serve you well, while the Silent Yellow may cater to those who favor a more subdued approach. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on whether you prioritize sound and tactile engagement or prefer a quieter, less pronounced typing experience.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch will largely depend on your typing preferences and the environment in which you plan to use your keyboard. If you enjoy a classic typing experience with tactile feedback and an engaging auditory element, the Melodic is an excellent option. Its resonant and crunchy sounds, combined with a buttery and invigorating feel, create an enjoyable and stimulating atmosphere, making it particularly suitable for home or office use where such sound won't disturb others. On the flip side, if you prefer a quieter typing experience that allows you to type without drawing attention—perhaps in a shared workspace or during late-night sessions—the Silent Yellow linear switch would be the better choice. Despite having the same bottom-out force of 60 grams, the Silent Yellow provides a smoother, noise-free operation that promotes focus and concentration. Ultimately, your decision should align with your individual typing style and the context in which you are using the keyboard, ensuring that you choose the switch that best enhances your overall experience.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron Melodic Clicky

$6.50

$6.00 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Silent Yellow Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more