Outemu Dustproof Blue vs. Outemu Silent Yellow
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof 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 Dustproof Blue and Outemu Silent Yellow offer unique typing experiences. The Dustproof Blue switch is a clicky switch, providing a satisfying tactile feedback and audible click with every keystroke. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow switch is a linear switch, offering a smooth keystroke without any tactile feedback or audible noise. The Dustproof Blue may be preferred by those who enjoy the sound and feel of a clicky switch, while the Silent Yellow may be more suitable for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. 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
65g
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 main difference between the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Outemu Silent Yellow lies in their top housing materials. Both switches use polycarbonate for the top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic that resonates more clearly. The use of polycarbonate also allows for RGB lighting, making it a visually appealing option for those looking to customize their keyboard's appearance. In terms of sound, both switches will provide a similar experience due to the shared top housing material.
In contrast, where the two switches diverge is in their bottom housing materials. The Dustproof Blue features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow also uses nylon for its bottom housing, giving it the same characteristics as the Dustproof Blue in terms of sound. With both switches utilizing nylon for the bottom housing, the typing experience between the two will be quite similar, emphasizing a more muted sound profile compared to switches with harder bottom housings.
Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Outemu Silent Yellow will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile. While they both share the benefits of a polycarbonate top housing for a clearer and resonant sound, the nylon bottom housing of both switches provides a deeper and fuller sound experience. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound or a duller, rounder sound will determine which switch is the right choice for your keyboard setup.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, it is evident that the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Dustproof Blue has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Silent Yellow's heavier 65 grams. Similarly, the Dustproof Blue has a lighter bottom out force of 65 grams, whereas the Silent Yellow requires a heavier 80 grams to reach bottom out. This means that the Dustproof Blue offers a lighter and less resistance typing experience, ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming. In contrast, the Silent Yellow provides a more substantial and stronger push feel, making it suitable for individuals who prefer a heavier typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces, with the Dustproof Blue offering a lighter option and the Silent Yellow a heavier alternative.
Travel distance
The travel distance of both the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch is 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the two switches, they are similar in the distance they travel from the top to the bottom, providing a consistent typing experience for users. Both switches offer a standard travel distance that allows for efficient typing while also providing tactile or linear feedback depending on personal preference. Whether using the Dustproof Blue or the Silent Yellow switch, users can expect a comparable typing experience with the same travel distance, ensuring consistent results regardless of their choice.
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 Dustproof 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 Dustproof Blue clicky switch is known for its loud and satisfying click sound, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch is designed to provide a quiet typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a more discreet switch. The Dustproof Blue will give a tactile bump while typing, providing a sense of confirmation with each key press, whereas the Silent Yellow will offer a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile feedback.
When it comes to sound, the Dustproof Blue switch produces a distinct clicky noise known to be satisfying for many users, while the Silent Yellow switch is designed to be nearly silent, making it ideal for shared workspaces or late-night typing sessions where noise may be a concern. The sound produced by both switches will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Dustproof Blue switch offers a tactile bump during actuation, providing a satisfying and responsive typing experience for those who enjoy the clicky feedback. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow switch features a smooth linear actuation with no tactile bump, offering a consistent keystroke feel that is preferred by gamers and those who require precise key presses without distraction. Both switches are durable and reliable, ensuring a consistent typing experience over time.
In conclusion, the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch cater to different preferences when it comes to typing experience. The Dustproof Blue offers a loud and tactile typing experience with satisfying clicky feedback, while the Silent Yellow provides a quiet and consistent typing feel without any tactile feedback. Whether you prefer the audible click of the Dustproof Blue or the silent operation of the Silent Yellow, both switches are high-quality options that can enhance your overall typing experience depending on your personal preferences.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when it comes to choosing between the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, it all comes down to personal preference and what you are looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch. If you enjoy a tactile and clicky typing experience with a medium-heavy typing force, then the Dustproof Blue may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and quiet typing experience with a heavier typing force, then the Silent Yellow switch might be more up your alley. Consider factors such as sound, feel, and bottom out force when making your decision, and don't be afraid to try out different switches to see which one suits your typing style best. Ultimately, the choice is yours!
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