Outemu Black vs. Outemu Silent Yellow
An in-depth look at the Outemu Black and the Outemu Silent Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Black and Outemu Silent Yellow both offer unique features and qualities that cater to different preferences. The Outemu Black is a linear switch that is best known for its smooth keystrokes and consistent actuation force, making it ideal for fast typists and gamers who prefer a consistent feel with every key press. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow is also a linear switch but is specifically designed to reduce the noise levels while still providing a satisfying typing experience. This makes it a great option for those who work or game in a shared space where noise might be a concern. Both switches have their own strengths and weaknesses, so it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and usage scenarios. 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
65g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.50 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the Outemu Black and Outemu Silent Yellow switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing allows for clear and resonant sound production, making these switches ideal for those who prioritize sound quality in their typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it a great choice for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind, as it enhances the visual appeal of the keyboard.
In terms of bottom housing materials, both the Outemu Black and Outemu Silent Yellow switches utilize nylon, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. This material choice provides a different tactile feel and acoustic experience for users who prefer a quieter and more muted typing sound.
While both switches share the same top housing material (polycarbonate) for similar sound characteristics, the use of different bottom housing materials (nylon) creates a distinction in sound and feel between the Outemu Black and Outemu Silent Yellow switches. The bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This differentiation allows users to tailor their typing experience based on their preferences for sound profile and tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Black linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, it is evident that both have the same actuation force of 65 grams. However, the Outemu Black has a heavier bottom out force of 82 grams, while the Outemu Silent Yellow has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 80 grams. The difference in bottom out force may result in a slightly lighter typing experience with the Silent Yellow switch compared to the Black switch. Generally, a lighter actuation force allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue, making the Silent Yellow a potentially better option for those who prefer a lighter touch. On the other hand, the heavier bottom out force of the Black switch may appeal to those who desire a more substantial and tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
When comparing and contrasting the travel distance of the Outemu Black linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, both switches have an identical travel distance of 4 mm. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of key travel feeling when pressing down on the keys. As both switches offer the same travel distance, users can expect a consistent typing experience across both options. Whether choosing the Outemu Black or the Outemu Silent Yellow switch, users can enjoy a smooth linear feel with a 4 mm travel distance from top to bottom.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
In this case, both switches are $3.10. As such, price can't serve as a tiebreaker when choosing between the Black and Silent Yellow.
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
The Outemu Black linear switch is known for its smooth keystrokes and consistent actuation force, making it a popular choice for gamers and typists looking for a reliable switch. The sound produced by the Black switch is typically described as moderately loud with a satisfying click. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch is designed to reduce noise while still maintaining a smooth typing experience. The Silent Yellow switch is praised for its silent operation, making it a great option for those who value a quiet work or gaming environment. In terms of feel, the Black switch is often noted for its slightly heavier actuation force compared to the Silent Yellow switch. The Silent Yellow switch, on the other hand, provides a lighter and more effortless typing experience.
Overall, when comparing the Outemu Black linear switch to the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, it's important to consider your personal preferences in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a switch with a more audible click and a slightly heavier feel, the Black switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quieter typing experience with a lighter touch, the Silent Yellow switch would be more suitable. Both switches offer a smooth linear action, so you can expect similar results in terms of responsiveness and keypress consistency. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to your individual preferences and the type of typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when deciding between the Outemu Black linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, you should consider your preference in terms of bottom out force. If you prefer a slightly heavier typing experience, the Outemu Black with its 82-gram bottom out force may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter typing experience, the Outemu Silent Yellow with its 80-gram bottom out force could be more suitable. Additionally, consider the sound and feel of each switch to determine which one aligns better with your preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Black and Outemu Silent Yellow switches will come down to your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking for.
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