Gateron Mini i vs. Outemu Silent Yellow Jade
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mini i and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Gateron Mini i and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade are both tactile switches that offer a unique typing experience. The Mini i switches are perfect for office settings with their gentle tactility and quiet sound profile, allowing for comfortable and satisfying typing without disturbing colleagues. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow Jade switches provide a more pronounced tactile bump and a "thocky" sound for those who enjoy a bit more feedback while typing. Both switches have their own strengths and characteristics that cater to different preferences and environments. 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
40g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Mini i and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade feature nylon top and bottom housings, leading to a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile and feel. The nylon material used in both switches is known for its softer plastic composition, which helps absorb more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile that is characterized by a duller and rounder tone, enhancing the overall typing experience for users of both switches.
However, while both switches share the use of nylon as their housing material, the design and construction of the switches may vary slightly. The Gateron Mini i may have a different layout or structure in its housing compared to the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade, which could impact the overall feel and sound of the switches. Additionally, any variations in the thickness or shape of the nylon housings between the two switches could also contribute to subtle differences in typing experience, even though the material itself remains consistent.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Mini i and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade may come down to personal preference or specific use cases. Both switches offer a similar typing experience due to their shared nylon housing material, but subtle differences in design and construction may lead users to favor one switch over the other based on individual preferences for sound, feel, or overall typing performance. Regardless of the choice, users can expect a quality typing experience with deep and full sound profiles from either switch.
Weight
The Gateron Mini i tactile switch boasts a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a great option for those who prefer a lighter touch when typing or gaming for extended periods. In comparison, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a bit more resistance. While the Mini i is lighter overall, those who enjoy a more substantial feel may opt for the Silent Yellow Jade. Both switches offer a smooth typing experience with their tactile feedback, so users can expect similar results in that aspect. Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Mini i and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade will come down to personal preference in terms of actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, slightly longer than the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch which has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. Both switches offer a shorter travel distance compared to the traditional 4.0 mm, making them ideal for gamers seeking faster response times. Those who prefer a more responsive feel may lean towards the Gateron Mini i, while individuals who enjoy a bit more depth in their key presses may prefer the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00, whereas the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron Mini i switch offers a fairly muted profile that maintains a satisfying feedback while being suitable for office environments. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade switch provides a unique "thocky" sound with a punchy tactile bump, offering a quiet typing experience. Depending on the other factors such as keyboard and keycaps, the sound produced by these switches will vary.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Mini i switch is described as bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, subtle, and stepped, providing a spring-like sensation, minimal resistance, and a gentle typing experience. It also offers a responsive and low-impact feel, ideal for extended typing sessions. As for the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade switch, there is no specific information available regarding its feel qualities.
Overall, while the Gateron Mini i and Outemu Silent Yellow Jade switches differ in their sound and potentially in their feel, they both offer tactile feedback, making them suitable options for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience. Depending on personal preferences and the specific use case, either of these switches could provide a satisfying typing experience for newcomers to the mechanical keyboard world.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you value a lightweight switch with a gentle tactility and muted sound for a professional office environment, the Gateron Mini i may be the optimal choice for you. On the other hand, if you seek a medium-heavy switch with a unique "thocky" sound and a punchy tactile bump, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade could be the ideal fit for your typing style. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a light and subtle typing experience or a slightly heavier and more pronounced tactile feel. Choose wisely to enhance your overall typing satisfaction.
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