Outemu Dustproof Black vs. Outemu Yellow Silver
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Black and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Dustproof Black and the Outemu Yellow Silver mechanical keyboard switches, both being linear switches, some key differences emerge. The Dustproof Black switch is best known for its dustproof design, ensuring longevity and reliability. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver switch stands out for its light actuation force and neutral sound profile, making it ideal for gamers and typists seeking speediness and responsiveness. While the Dustproof Black offers durability, the Yellow Silver excels in performance. 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
60g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Black and Outemu Yellow Silver, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings. This material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for those who prioritize sound quality in their typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for compatibility with RGB lighting setups, adding a visual flair to the mechanical keyboard. Despite the similarities in the top housing material, the differences lie in the nylon bottom housings. The Dustproof Black's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Yellow Silver's nylon bottom housing creates a duller and rounder sound, showcasing the impact of softer plastics on sound absorption.
While both the Dustproof Black and Yellow Silver switches share the same polycarbonate top housing material, the distinctions in their nylon bottom housings provide unique typing experiences. The Dustproof Black's bottom housing absorbs less sound due to the stiffer plastic, resulting in a more resonant and impactful bottom-out sound and feel. In contrast, the Yellow Silver's softer nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder bottom-out experience. These differences highlight the importance of housing materials in shaping the overall sound profile and tactile feedback of mechanical switches.
Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Dustproof Black and Outemu Yellow Silver will depend on individual preferences for sound and typing feel. While both switches offer a sharp and crisp sound profile due to their polycarbonate top housings, the varying characteristics of their nylon bottom housings create distinct typing experiences. The Dustproof Black leans towards a more resonant and impactful typing experience, thanks to its stiffer bottom housing, while the Yellow Silver provides a softer and more subdued feel with its sound-absorbing nylon bottom housing. Whether prioritizing sound quality or tactile feedback, these differences in housing materials offer users a tailored mechanical keyboard experience.
Weight
In comparing the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, it is evident that the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in their performance. The Dustproof Black switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver switch is lighter, with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions. The Dustproof Black switch would be preferred by those who prefer a stronger push feel, while the Yellow Silver switch is ideal for individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience. Overall, the actuation force and bottom out force of these switches cater to different preferences, with the Dustproof Black being heavier and the Yellow Silver being lighter in comparison.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel from the top to the bottom. In terms of comparing the two switches, they are equal in this aspect, ensuring that users will get similar results in terms of keypress feel and feedback. This makes them both suitable options for those who prefer a linear switch with a 4 mm travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Dustproof Black 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 Dustproof Black linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch differ in sound and feel qualities. The Dustproof Black switch lacks specific descriptions in terms of sound and feel, making it harder to directly compare to the Yellow Silver switch. However, the Yellow Silver switch is known for its neutral sound profile, which offers a moderate actuation force requirement suitable for a wide range of users. This switch is preferred by gamers and typists looking for speediness and responsiveness. In terms of feel, the Dustproof Black switch does not have any specific descriptors to compare, but the Yellow Silver switch provides a light actuation force, offering a smooth typing experience. Overall, while the Dustproof Black switch may offer its unique benefits, the Yellow Silver switch's known qualities make it a versatile option for those seeking a reliable linear switch. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and intended use.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, you should consider the factors of actuation force and sound profile. If you prefer a heavier bottom out force and are indifferent to sound, the Dustproof Black may be the better choice for you. However, if you value a lighter actuation force and a neutral sound profile, the Yellow Silver switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences and priorities when it comes to typing and gaming experiences.