KTT Orange vs. Outemu Yellow Silver

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the KTT Orange and the Outemu Yellow Silver. The KTT Orange switch is known for its bouncy and frictionless feel thanks to its 22mm long spring, polycarbonate milky top housing, and vivid orange nylon bottom housing. Typing on these switches offers a slick experience with a low-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver switch by Outemu is favored by gamers and typists who prefer speediness and responsiveness. With a light actuation force and a neutral sound profile, this switch is designed for quick and precise keystrokes. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

KTT Orange Linear

Outemu Yellow Silver Linear

$5.55

$4.15 per 10

$3.40 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the KTT Orange and the Outemu Yellow Silver, we find that both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This means they will offer similar sound profiles, as polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate also leads to a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting, providing an aesthetically pleasing effect. Therefore, whether you choose the KTT Orange or the Outemu Yellow Silver, you can expect a similar sound profile and compatibility with RGB lighting.

On the other hand, while the Orange has a polycarbonate bottom housing, the Yellow Silver incorporates a nylon bottom housing. This difference in materials leads to varying sound profiles. The Orange's polycarbonate bottom housing, like its top housing, will contribute to a sharper and crisper sound when the key is bottomed out. However, the Yellow Silver's nylon bottom housing offers a different experience. Nylon is known for its softer nature and its absorption of sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This means that if you prefer a switch with a deeper and rounder sound, the Outemu Yellow Silver may be the better choice for you.

It's important to note that the top and bottom housings of a switch have different impacts on the overall sound. When you press down on a switch, you will primarily feel and hear the qualities of the bottom housing, as it influences the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound when you release a key. Therefore, even though the Orange and the Yellow Silver share a polycarbonate top housing, their different bottom housings will result in distinct sound experiences during typing.

Weight

When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the KTT Orange linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to note. Both switches have a relatively light actuation force, with the Orange requiring 46 grams and the Yellow Silver requiring 45 grams. This means that users can expect a smooth and effortless keystroke, making them suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions without causing excessive fatigue. However, when it comes to bottom out force, there is a slight variation. The Orange has a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Yellow Silver has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that users who prefer a more substantial and responsive typing experience may lean towards the Yellow Silver switch, as it provides a slightly firmer touch when pressing down the keys completely. On the other hand, those who prefer a lighter overall feel may find the Orange switch more appealing. Overall, both switches fall under the medium-light category, offering a comfortable typing experience, but the Yellow Silver is slightly heavier in terms of bottom out force.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Orange linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, it is evident that there is a difference in their distances. The Orange switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Yellow Silver switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of traditional travel distances, 4.0mm is considered the most common, while 3.0mm is considered the shallowest. However, with the increasing popularity of gaming, shorter travel distances have become more prevalent as gamers seek faster response times. In this regard, the Orange switch with its shorter travel distance may be preferred. On the other hand, some individuals may find short travel distances to feel too abrupt, and in such cases, the Yellow Silver switch with its longer travel distance may be preferable for those desiring a more substantial depth. Despite their differences, both switches offer a satisfying key press experience, with the trade-off between response time and depth being the distinguishing factor.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the KTT Orange switch is best known for its low-pitched profile. This means that it produces a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that it falls in the middle ground, not too loud or too quiet, making it suitable for a variety of purposes. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

Moving on to feel, the KTT Orange switch is praised for its bouncy and frictionless nature. The 22mm long spring in these switches provides a bouncy or elastic feedback sensation, giving the keys a lively feel and a rebound when pressed. Additionally, the switch offers a fluid key travel experience with minimal friction or resistance. On the other hand, there is no specific information available about the feel of the Outemu Yellow Silver switch.

Considering all the available information, the KTT Orange switch offers a low-pitched sound profile, a bouncy and frictionless feel, and is recommended for those seeking a slick typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver switch offers a neutral sound profile, while the information about its feel is unknown. For those looking for a speediness and responsiveness in a switch, the Yellow Silver may be a suitable choice. However, as an expert, I would advise that similar results in sound and feel can be achieved with both switches, depending on other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference and the specific needs of the user.

Conclusion

Bringing it all together, the KTT Orange linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch each have their own unique characteristics that make them suitable for different preferences and needs. If you prioritize a bouncy and frictionless typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, the KTT Orange switch is the way to go. The Orange switch's 53-gram bottom out force provides a medium-light feel, and its 22mm long spring adds to the bounciness of the switch. The polycarbonate milky top housing and the factory-lubing enhance the smoothness of the key travel, ensuring minimal friction. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a neutral sound profile and a light actuation force, the Outemu Yellow Silver switch is a great choice. With a 55-gram bottom out force, this switch offers a similar medium-light feel as the Orange switch. While there is no specific description of the feel of the Yellow Silver switch, it is favorable for gamers and typists who prioritize speediness and responsiveness. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to individual preferences for sound and feel, so consider which characteristics align better with what you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Orange Linear

$5.55

$4.15 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Yellow Silver Linear

$3.40 per 10

Learn more