Cherry MX Red vs. Outemu Yellow Silver
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Red and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Cherry MX Red and the Outemu Yellow Silver mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes evident that both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The MX Red is renowned for its slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, providing a robust typing experience that combines responsiveness with a satisfying auditory depth. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver switch stands out for its light actuation force and neutral sound profile, making it ideal for gamers and typists seeking speediness and responsiveness. While the MX Red is categorized as 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', and 'Textured', the Yellow Silver is simply labeled as 'Neutral'. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Red and the Outemu Yellow Silver, it is clear that they offer different sound profiles due to their distinct properties. The MX Red's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Yellow Silver's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound profile, as polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that provides a more resonant sound. Aesthetically, the polycarbonate material in the Yellow Silver switch allows for a clear housing, ideal for showcasing RGB lighting.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, both the MX Red and the Outemu Yellow Silver use nylon, resulting in a similar deep and full sound profile due to the softer plastic's sound absorption capabilities. This consistency in housing material between the two switches means that the typing experience and sound produced when pressing down on the keys will be quite comparable. The choice of nylon for the bottom housing ensures a consistent typing experience across both switches, offering a familiar feel to users who enjoy the softer sound profile provided by this material.
Ultimately, while the top housing materials of the Cherry MX Red and the Outemu Yellow Silver differ in their sound profiles, the bottom housings provide a similar typing experience due to their shared use of nylon. The Cherry MX Red's nylon top housing creates a duller and rounder sound, while the Outemu Yellow Silver's polycarbonate top housing offers a clearer and more resonant sound. However, the nylon bottom housing in both switches ensures a consistent deep and full sound profile when typing. This balance between differing top housing materials and shared bottom housing material showcases how subtle differences in housing materials can impact the overall sound and feel of mechanical switches.
Weight
The Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch both have an actuation force of 45 grams, making them light switches that are easy to press. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Cherry MX Red has an unknown measurement while the Outemu Yellow Silver has a bottom out force of 55 grams, which is considered a medium-light force. This means that the Outemu Yellow Silver switch requires a slightly stronger push to fully press the key compared to the Cherry MX Red. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Cherry MX Red, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance in their keystrokes may opt for the Outemu Yellow Silver. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Red linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch both have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that both switches will offer a similar typing experience in terms of the distance the key travels from the top to the bottom. Users who prefer a shorter travel distance may find these switches to be ideal for quick and responsive typing, while those who prefer a longer travel distance may need to look for switches with a greater distance. Overall, both the Cherry MX Red and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches provide a consistent and comfortable typing experience with their matching travel distances.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
The Outemu Yellow Silver comes in at $3.40 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 Cherry MX Red linear switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched profile, offering a deep and satisfying sound with each keypress. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users without being too overwhelming. The choice of keycaps and keyboard can also influence the overall sound experience.
Moving on to feel, the Cherry MX Red switch is noted for its textured feel, providing users with a tactile feedback that some may find satisfying, while others may prefer a smoother typing experience. Unfortunately, there is no specific information available regarding the feel of the Outemu Yellow Silver switch. As a result, it is recommended to try out the switch firsthand to determine if the feel meets your preferences.
Considering all available information, the Cherry MX Red and Outemu Yellow Silver switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the MX Red provides a deeper sound profile and a textured feel, the Yellow Silver switch offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for various users. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for. Both switches can provide similar results in terms of responsiveness and speed, so trying them out in person may be the best way to determine which one suits your needs best.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch with a slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, the Cherry MX Red linear switch would be a solid choice. This switch offers a robust typing experience that combines responsiveness with a satisfying auditory depth. On the other hand, if you prefer a light actuation force and a neutral sound profile, the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch might be more suitable for you. This switch is favored by gamers and typists who prioritize speediness and responsiveness. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing experience, sound profile, and actuation force. Consider these factors carefully before making your decision.
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