Haimu Neo White vs. Outemu Silent Yellow
An in-depth look at the Haimu Neo White and the Outemu Silent Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at the Haimu Neo White and the Outemu Silent Yellow mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to consider their differences and similarities. The Neo White switch is a linear switch that stands out for its medium weight and slightly reduced total travel, providing a distinctive typing feel. The rare use of a Ly stem in this switch contributes to a smooth actuation, making typing a satisfying experience. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow switch is also a linear switch that doesn't have any standout features mentioned. Both switches offer a linear typing experience, but the Neo White has a medium weight and reduced travel compared to the Silent Yellow. When choosing between the two, it's important to consider your preferences for typing experience and actuation weight. 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
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
Ly
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
Double-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Haimu Neo White and Outemu Silent Yellow both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a more resonant sound, making it ideal for switches that emphasize sound quality. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. Despite both switches sharing the same top housing material, the difference lies in their respective bottom housings.
In contrast to the top housing, the bottom housing of the Neo White is made of nylon, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. The nylon material is known for absorbing more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that enhances the overall typing experience. Similarly, the Outemu Silent Yellow also features a nylon bottom housing, offering the same benefits of a deeper and fuller sound profile. This consistency in bottom housing material ensures that both switches deliver a satisfying typing experience.
While the top and bottom housings of the Haimu Neo White and Outemu Silent Yellow differ in material, they each play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience. The qualities of the bottom housing impact the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. By combining polycarbonate and nylon in their respective housings, both switches achieve a harmonious balance of sharpness, resonance, and depth in their sound profiles, catering to users seeking a premium typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, it is evident that there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Neo White has a lower actuation force of None grams, meaning that it is a lighter switch compared to the Silent Yellow, which has an actuation force of 65 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Neo White requires 58 grams, while the Silent Yellow demands a heavier 80 grams. This makes the Silent Yellow a more substantial option for those who prefer a stronger push feel, while the Neo White is better suited for individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for force and weight in a keyboard switch.
Travel distance
The Haimu Neo White linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6mm, while the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 4mm. In this case, the Neo White has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Silent Yellow. The Neo White's 3.6mm travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times due to its slightly shorter travel distance, while the 4mm travel distance of the Silent Yellow may provide a more satisfying depth for those who prefer a longer distance. Both switches offer a different feel when pressed, with the Neo White being slightly more responsive and the Silent Yellow offering more of a substantial press. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Haimu Neo White comes in at $2.70, whereas the Outemu Silent Yellow 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
When it comes to sound, the Haimu Neo White linear switch is known for its neutral profile, providing a moderate actuation force requirement and sound level suitable for a variety of typing situations. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch does not have specific sound descriptors available, making it difficult to compare in this aspect. However, the overall sound of a switch is influenced by various factors beyond just the switch itself, such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel, the Haimu Neo White linear switch offers a mild typing experience with its medium weight and smooth actuation, creating a satisfying typing feel that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone. In contrast, there is no available description for the typing feel of the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, making it challenging to directly compare to the Neo White in this regard. However, based on the information provided, it is likely that the Silent Yellow may offer a similar level of smoothness and satisfaction in typing experience.
In conclusion, the Haimu Neo White linear switch stands out for its medium weight, smooth actuation, and mild typing experience. While the specific sound and feel qualities of the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch are not provided, it is possible to expect a similar level of versatility and satisfaction in typing. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Haimu Neo White linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a smooth actuation, the Neo White switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and are not concerned about sound or feel descriptors, the Silent Yellow switch could be the right option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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