Outemu Blue vs. Outemu Silent Yellow
An in-depth look at the Outemu Blue and the Outemu Silent Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Blue and Outemu Silent Yellow are two popular options to consider. The Outemu Blue switch is a clicky switch, known for its tactile feedback and satisfying click sound with each key press. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow switch is a linear switch, providing a smooth and quiet typing experience. Those who prefer a more tactile and audible typing experience may gravitate towards the Outemu Blue, while those who value a quiet and smooth typing experience may opt for the Outemu Silent Yellow. 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
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
The housing materials of the Outemu Blue and Outemu Silent Yellow switches share similarities in terms of their polycarbonate top housing. Both switches use polycarbonate for the top housing, which creates a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp sound profile. The relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate plastic leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal material for switches, especially for those using RGB lighting due to its translucency. As a result, users can expect similar sound qualities from both switches in terms of their top housing material.
However, where the switches differ is in their bottom housing material. The Outemu Blue features a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow also uses nylon for its bottom housing, providing a similar deep and full sound profile compared to the Blue. This means that despite the differences in their bottom housing materials, users can still expect a similar sound experience in terms of the switches' bottom-out sound and feel.
In terms of overall typing experience, the qualities of the bottom housing material will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed. On the other hand, the top housing material will influence the sound when releasing a key. With the Outemu Blue and Outemu Silent Yellow switches, users can enjoy a combination of sharp, crisp sound from the polycarbonate top housing, and a deep, full sound from the nylon bottom housing, providing a unique typing experience tailored to individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Blue clicky switch to the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, there is a notable difference in actuation force and bottom out force. The Blue switch has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Silent Yellow switch has an actuation force of 65 grams, making the Silent Yellow heavier in this aspect. The bottom out force of the Blue switch is unknown, while the Silent Yellow switch has a bottom out force of 80 grams, indicating a heavier feel when fully pressed. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Blue switch may be more suitable due to its lower actuation force. However, for individuals who enjoy a more substantial key press, the Silent Yellow switch with its higher actuation and bottom out forces would be the ideal choice. Both switches offer different typing experiences, catering to varying preferences and needs.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, it is evident that both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom will be equal. Despite having the same travel distance, the experience of using these switches will differ due to their different tactile and auditory feedback. The Blue switch provides a clicky sound and tactile feedback, while the Silent Yellow switch offers a smooth and quiet keystroke. Overall, while the travel distance is the same for both switches, the user experience will vary based on the type of feedback desired.
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 Blue 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 Blue clicky switch is known for its loud and tactile click sound, making it popular among those who enjoy the satisfying feedback of each key press. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch is designed to be quiet and smooth, appealing to users who prefer a more subtle typing experience without the audible feedback. The sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard housing and keycaps used, so it's important to consider these factors when choosing between the two.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Blue switch provides a tactile bump and audible click with each key press, giving users a tactile and satisfying typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Silent Yellow switch offers a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile feedback, delivering a silent typing experience for those who prioritize noise reduction. Both switches offer distinct typing experiences that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to the user's personal taste in terms of sound and feel.
Overall, the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in sound and feel. While the Blue switch is favored for its loud and tactile feedback, the Silent Yellow switch provides a quiet and smooth typing experience. Consider your preference for sound and feel when choosing between these two switches to ensure a satisfying typing experience that suits your needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a tactile feedback with a satisfying clicky sound, then the Outemu Blue switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience without the audible click, the Outemu Silent Yellow switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize sound and tactility or prefer a silent and linear typing feel. Consider how you will be using your keyboard and choose the switch that aligns with your typing preferences.
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