Cherry MX Silent Red vs. Outemu Silent Yellow
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Outemu Silent Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Outemu Silent Yellow mechanical keyboard switches, both are linear switches that offer a quieter typing experience compared to their non-silent counterparts. The MX Silent Red, a variant of the popular MX Red switch, maintains a slightly heavier feel but operates silently, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow does not have a distinct reputation but also provides a quiet typing experience. While the MX Silent Red is categorized as 'Muted', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', and 'Textured', the Silent Yellow does not have specific categorizations. When deciding between these two switches, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and which features are most important to you. 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
60g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
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 Silent Red and the Outemu Silent Yellow, we see that the Cherry MX Silent Red uses a nylon top and bottom housing, while the Outemu Silent Yellow utilizes a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The nylon top housing of the MX Silent Red provides a deep and full sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent Yellow creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile because of its stiffer plastic composition, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Despite both switches having a nylon bottom housing, the differences in their top housing materials contribute significantly to distinct sound profiles.
Aesthetically, the housing materials of the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Outemu Silent Yellow differ not only in their sound profiles but also in their appearance. The MX Silent Red's nylon top housing offers a classic look, while the Outemu Silent Yellow's polycarbonate top housing provides a transparent and modern design. The translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of the Silent Yellow. In contrast, the solid color of the nylon top housing of the MX Silent Red may appeal to those looking for a more traditional switch design without the need for customizable lighting effects.
Ultimately, the choice between the Cherry MX Silent Red and the Outemu Silent Yellow housing materials may come down to personal preference in sound and aesthetics. While both switches feature a nylon bottom housing that contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, the different top housing materials create distinct sound characteristics. The softer nylon top housing of the MX Silent Red offers a duller and rounder sound, whereas the stiffer polycarbonate top housing of the Silent Yellow produces a sharper and crisper sound. Whether you prefer a classic look with the MX Silent Red or a modern design with the Silent Yellow, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to individual preferences in typing experience and appearance.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, it is evident that the Silent Yellow is the heavier option. The MX Silent Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, which some may prefer for longer typing or gaming sessions, while the Silent Yellow requires a stronger push with an actuation force of 65 grams. Additionally, the bottom out force of the Silent Yellow is 80 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience compared to the MX Silent Red, whose bottom out force is unknown. Both switches offer a silent typing experience, but the Silent Yellow offers a heavier touch for those who prefer a more tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on individual preferences for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, it is clear that the MX Silent Red has a shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm compared to the Silent Yellow's 4 mm. Both switches provide a smooth linear keystroke with reduced noise, making them ideal for quiet typing environments. The shorter travel distance of the MX Silent Red may appeal to gamers looking for a faster response time, while the slightly longer travel distance of the Outemu Silent Yellow may provide a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a deeper keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
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
In comparing the sound qualities of the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, it is evident that the MX Silent Red offers a muted, thocky, and low-pitched sound profile, making it ideal for those looking for a quieter typing experience. The Silent Yellow, on the other hand, does not have any specific sound descriptors available, making it difficult to directly compare to the MX Silent Red. When it comes to feel, the MX Silent Red is noted for its textured feel, which may appeal to users who prefer a bit of feedback when typing. Unfortunately, there is no information available on the feel of the Outemu Silent Yellow switch.
In conclusion, based on the available information, the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch appears to be a solid choice for those seeking a quieter typing experience with its muted and thocky sound profile, along with the textured feel it offers. While the specifics of the Outemu Silent Yellow switch are unknown, it is likely that users can expect a similar level of quietness from a linear switch labeled as "silent." Ultimately, personal preference will play a significant role in determining which switch is the better fit for each individual's typing needs.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, your choice will largely depend on your preferences and needs. If you are looking for a quiet typing experience in a noise-sensitive environment, the MX Silent Red would be a great option with its muted sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and are not as concerned about noise, the Silent Yellow could be the right fit for you. Ultimately, consider the qualities of each switch in terms of sound and feel to determine which one aligns best with your typing style and environment. Happy typing!
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