Outemu Blue vs. Outemu Yellow Silver
An in-depth look at the Outemu Blue and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Blue and Outemu Yellow Silver offer unique characteristics to consider. The Outemu Blue switch is a clicky switch with a tactile bump, making it popular among typists who enjoy audible feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver switch is a linear switch with a smooth keystroke, ideal for gamers and typists who prioritize speed and responsiveness without any tactile feedback. Both switches have their own strengths and weaknesses, catering to different preferences and typing styles. 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
55g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Overall, the Outemu Blue and Outemu Yellow Silver switches both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is known for being relatively stiff, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of the keyboard. In terms of sound profile, the polycarbonate top housings of both switches offer similar characteristics.
However, where the two switches differ is in their choice of bottom housing material. The Outemu Blue features a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Outemu Yellow Silver's nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. This contrast in bottom housing materials may influence the overall typing experience and sound feedback of each switch.
Ultimately, the combination of different housing materials in the Outemu Blue and Outemu Yellow Silver switches provides a unique typing experience. The split between the top and bottom housing materials allows for a blend of qualities in sound production and tactile feedback. The bottom housing's impact on the bottom-out sound and feel is complemented by the top housing's influence on the sound when releasing a key, resulting in a well-rounded typing experience tailored to the preferences of the user.
Weight
The Outemu Blue clicky switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch which has an actuation force of 45 grams. However, the bottom out force for the Blue switch is unknown, while the Yellow Silver switch has a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it slightly heavier in that aspect. The Blue switch may provide a more tactile typing experience with its higher actuation force, while the Yellow Silver switch could be preferred for those who like a lighter touch due to its lower actuation force. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on the weight of the force required, allowing users to choose the one that best suits their typing preferences.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience a consistent travel distance from top to bottom. The similarity in travel distance between the two switches ensures that whether you choose the Blue clicky switch for a tactile typing experience or the Yellow Silver linear switch for a smoother keystroke, you will get similar results in terms of how the keys feel when pressed. Therefore, there is no significant difference in travel distance between the two switches, making them equally suitable options for those seeking a specific typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Blue comes in at $3.10, whereas the Outemu Yellow Silver comes in at $3.40.
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 distinctive sound, characterized by a loud click with each keystroke. This auditory feedback can be satisfying for some users who enjoy a tactile typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it a quieter option for those who prefer a more discreet typing experience. The feel of the Blue switch is typically clicky and tactile, providing tactile feedback with each key press. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver switch offers a smooth linear feel, without any tactile bump, allowing for quick and uninterrupted keystrokes. Overall, while the Blue switch is preferred by individuals who enjoy a clicky and tactile typing experience, the Yellow Silver switch is favored by those who prioritize speed and responsiveness without the added noise. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel.
Conclusion
Therefore, when choosing between the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, you should consider your preferences for typing and gaming. If you enjoy a clicky sound and a responsive keypress with no bottom out force, the Blue switch may be the better option for you. However, if you prefer a light actuation force and a neutral sound profile, the Yellow Silver switch would be a great choice, especially for those who prioritize speed and responsiveness in their typing and gaming experiences. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different user preferences, so it is important to consider what features are most important to you when making your decision.
Mentioned in this article
