Haimu Orange Sea vs. Outemu Yellow Silver

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Haimu Orange Sea and Outemu Yellow Silver present two appealing yet distinct options for enthusiasts and casual users alike, particularly among linear switches. The Haimu Orange Sea is renowned for its impeccably smooth typing experience and neutral sound signature, offering an invigorating feel that can enhance the overall typing experience. It appeals to those who appreciate a balance of comfort and tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver is celebrated for its light actuation force, making it an excellent choice for gamers and typists who prioritize rapid responsiveness and speed. With its neutral sound profile, it allows for long typing sessions without fatigue or distraction. Both switches cater to different preferences and use cases, making them excellent choices in their own right. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.

By the numbers

Haimu Orange Sea Linear

Outemu Yellow Silver Linear

$2.79 per 10

$3.40 per 10

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Housing materials

The Haimu Orange Sea and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, resulting in similar sound profiles characterized by a heightened clarity and resonance. Polycarbonate, recognized for its stiffness, is effective in producing a sharper and crisper sound, which can be appealing for users who prefer a pronounced auditory feedback when typing. The translucency of polycarbonate also enhances the aesthetic of the switches, particularly when RGB lighting is used, making the lights appear more vibrant and visible through the housing. The congruence in housing materials between these two switches suggests that users can expect comparable auditory characteristics and visual effects from both models.

In contrast, both the Orange Sea and the Yellow Silver utilize nylon for their bottom housings. This choice of material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, distinguishing itself from the clarity provided by the polycarbonate top. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs sound more effectively, creating a duller and rounder auditory experience. This synergy between the rigid polycarbonate top and the softer nylon bottom results in a balanced sound profile overall, as the key feel and bottom-out sound are significantly influenced by the properties of the bottom housing. This shared nylon characteristic means that both switches aim for a similar tactile experience, despite their differing top materials.

The interaction between the top and bottom housings of both switches thus produces a unique sound experience that is consistent across both models. While the crispness of polycarbonate dominates during the release of the key, the fullness from the nylon bottom adds depth when the key is pressed down. This complementary relationship ensures that both the Haimu Orange Sea and Outemu Yellow Silver switches deliver a well-rounded typing experience, balancing clarity and depth. Consequently, users can expect similar performance and satisfaction across both models, making either choice a valid option for those who appreciate a blend of distinct sound attributes and aesthetic appeal.

Weight

When comparing the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Orange Sea features a lighter actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for long typing sessions and gaming, as the reduced force can help minimize fatigue. In contrast, the Yellow Silver requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer stronger resistance. This difference in actuation forces indicates that the Orange Sea is better suited for users seeking a lighter feel, while the Yellow Silver caters to those who favor a bit more weight in their keystrokes. Overall, the Orange Sea is the lighter option, making it advantageous for prolonged use, whereas the Yellow Silver offers a more robust push, appealing to users looking for a firmer response from their switches.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, it's clear that the two have distinct characteristics. The Orange Sea boasts a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is shorter and would likely appeal to gamers or users who favor faster response times. In contrast, the Yellow Silver has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option that may provide a more satisfying depth during typing or gaming for those who prefer a fuller keypress experience. Consequently, if you're drawn to quicker actuation and more pronounced feedback in your key presses, the Orange Sea switch is the superior choice due to its shorter travel distance. Conversely, the Yellow Silver caters to those who favor a more substantial feel with its longer travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When considering the sound profile of the Haimu Orange Sea and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches, both exhibit a neutral sound signature. The Orange Sea's sound is generally subtle, providing a moderate response that won't disturb those around you, making it suitable for various environments. Similarly, the Yellow Silver also maintains a neutral sound profile, characterized by a moderate actuation force requirement. This quality allows users to enjoy a pleasing, unobtrusive auditory experience, whether in a quiet office or a more dynamic gaming setup. It’s worth noting, however, that the specific sound experience may vary depending on the keyboard’s construction and keycaps chosen, ensuring similar results from both switches in practical use.

In terms of feel, the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch boasts a smooth and invigorating typing experience, characterized by pronounced feedback and a moderate to firm actuation force. This creates a responsive sensation that is engaging for both typists and gamers alike. The Orange Sea is described as accented, offering a medium level of tactility that strikes a balance between overwhelming and subtle. Unfortunately, the feel of the Yellow Silver is not specifically detailed, leaving a gap in comparison. However, given Outemu's reputation for consistency in their switch production, it is likely that the Yellow Silver provides a comparable linear experience, focusing on a smooth action favorable for speed and responsiveness.

In conclusion, both the Haimu Orange Sea and Outemu Yellow Silver switches offer appealing sound and feel qualities that cater to users who appreciate a balanced and effective typing experience. While they share a neutral sound profile, the Orange Sea stands out with its invigorating and accented feel, creating an immersive sensation for typists. The Yellow Silver is expected to deliver a similarly satisfying experience, although specifics regarding its tactile qualities remain undisclosed. Ultimately, users can expect an enjoyable performance from either option, depending on their personal preferences and typing styles.

Conclusion

In summary, when choosing between the Haimu Orange Sea linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, your specific preferences and typing or gaming styles will play a crucial role. If you favor a lighter, smoother typing experience with a bottom-out force of just 45 grams, the Orange Sea switch might be your ideal match. Its impeccably smooth feel and neutral sound profile cater well to users who enjoy a gentle, yet invigorating feedback during their typing sessions. This makes it particularly suitable for extended typing or casual gaming where comfort is key. On the other hand, if you lean towards a slightly firmer feel with a bottom-out force of 55 grams and appreciate a switch that is swift and responsive, then the Yellow Silver is the better choice. This switch is designed to enhance both gaming and typing, providing the speed necessary for quick actions while still maintaining a neutral sound that won’t disturb your surroundings. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches should reflect your personal tactile preferences, typing habits, and the environment in which you’ll be using your keyboard.

Mentioned in this article

Haimu Orange Sea Linear

$2.79 per 10

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Outemu Yellow Silver Linear

$3.40 per 10

Learn more