KTT Miaowu vs. Outemu Silent Yellow
An in-depth look at the KTT Miaowu and the Outemu Silent Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the KTT Miaowu and the Outemu Silent Yellow mechanical keyboard switches, there are some key differences to consider. The Miaowu switch stands out for its enhanced stem stability and smoother keystroke action, thanks to KTT's latest molds and the use of POK in its stem. It is also described as 'Bouncy' and 'Clacky', providing a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow switch is known for its silent operation, making it a great choice for those seeking a quieter typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these 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
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POK
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the KTT Miaowu and the Outemu Silent Yellow utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is known for its stiffness, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. However, despite both switches using polycarbonate for their top housing, the actual sound and feel may vary due to other factors such as the stem design or spring weight.
On the other hand, the Miaowu features a nylon bottom housing, while the Silent Yellow also opts for nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This difference in bottom housing material may impact the overall sound and feel of the switch when pressed, as the bottom housing has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel.
While both switches share similarities in their choice of housing materials, such as both utilizing polycarbonate for their top housing and nylon for their bottom housing, the actual sound and feel may differ based on other factors. The split between the qualities of each housing material will impact the overall typing experience, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will impact the sound when a key is released. It is worth considering these factors when choosing between the KTT Miaowu and the Outemu Silent Yellow for your keyboard.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Miaowu linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, it is evident that there is a significant difference in the weight of the keystrokes required for each. The Miaowu switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, providing a softer and lighter typing experience. In contrast, the Silent Yellow switch has a heavier actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, resulting in a more substantial and firmer typing feel. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of use, the Miaowu switch would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a heavier push for a more robust typing experience should opt for the Silent Yellow switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for typing force and feel.
Travel distance
The KTT Miaowu linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it shorter than the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Miaowu switch is ideal for those who prefer a faster response time and a shallower key press, making it popular among gamers. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow switch provides a slightly deeper key press, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. Despite their differences in travel distance, both switches offer smooth linear key presses, so regardless of which one you choose, you can expect a similar typing experience in terms of feel and overall performance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Miaowu has an MSRP of $4.32 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Miaowu for $3.71.
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 KTT Miaowu linear switch is known for its clacky sound, which is sharp, snappy, and percussive. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch lacks a specific sound descriptor provided in the information. However, keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard case and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the KTT Miaowu linear switch is said to be bouncy, providing a spring-like and lively feedback sensation. This means that the keys have a lively feel and give you rebound when pressed, enhancing the typing experience. As for the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, there is no specific feel descriptor provided in the information.
In conclusion, based on the available information, the KTT Miaowu linear switch stands out for its clacky sound and bouncy feel, while the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch lacks specific descriptors for sound and feel. If you prefer a switch with a clacky sound and bouncy feel, the Miaowu would be a good choice. However, if you are looking for a silent switch with a different feel characteristic not provided in the information, the Outemu Silent Yellow might also be a suitable option for you. Ultimately, trying out both switches in person may help you determine which one aligns better with your preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Miaowu linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, you should consider several factors. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and are looking for a switch with enhanced stem stability and smoother keystroke action, the Miaowu may be the right choice for you. Additionally, if you enjoy a clacky sound and a bouncy feel when typing, the Miaowu could provide the typing experience you are looking for. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and are not concerned about additional features or sound and feel descriptions, the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch may be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style.
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