Outemu Dustproof Blue vs. Outemu Yellow Silver
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Dustproof Blue and Outemu Yellow Silver stand out as popular options for different preferences. The Dustproof Blue is a clicky switch, known for its tactile feedback and audible click sound, making it a favorite among typists who enjoy a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver is a linear switch, preferred by gamers and typists looking for a smooth and quiet typing experience with a light actuation force. While the Dustproof Blue offers a classic and tactile typing feel, the Yellow Silver provides a speedy and responsive 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
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
The main difference between the Outemu Dustproof Blue and the Outemu Yellow Silver lies in their top and bottom housing materials. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a clear and resonant sound. In terms of aesthetics, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. However, the Dustproof Blue and Yellow Silver differ in their bottom housing material. The Dustproof Blue features a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. Meanwhile, the Yellow Silver also features a nylon bottom housing for a similar effect.
While both the Dustproof Blue and Yellow Silver share the same polycarbonate top housing material, their nylon bottom housing materials provide a slightly different typing experience. The Dustproof Blue's deeper and fuller sound may appeal to those who enjoy a more resonant typing experience, while the Yellow Silver's nylon bottom housing creates a duller and rounder sound. This difference in sound profile may be subtle but can impact the overall typing feel of the switches. Additionally, the split qualities between the top and bottom housing materials highlight how each component plays a role in the overall sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, the Outemu Dustproof Blue and Outemu Yellow Silver switches showcase how different housing materials can impact the sound profile and typing experience of a switch. While both switches incorporate polycarbonate top housings for a sharper sound, their nylon bottom housings offer variations in sound depth and resonance. Whether you prefer a deeper and fuller sound like the Dustproof Blue or a duller and rounder sound like the Yellow Silver, understanding the qualities of each housing material can help you choose the switch that best suits your typing preferences. Ultimately, the combination of top and bottom housing materials in a switch works together to create a unique typing experience.
Weight
The Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. Similarly, the Dustproof Blue switch also has a higher bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Yellow Silver switch has a lower bottom out force of 55 grams. These differences in force make the Dustproof Blue switch better suited for individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Yellow Silver switch is ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming. Both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, but the choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, resulting in a similar typing experience when it comes to the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. However, the Dustproof Blue switch offers a clicky mechanism that provides audible feedback with each keystroke, while the Yellow Silver switch offers a smoother linear feel without the audible click. Despite their differences in tactile feedback, both switches have an equal travel distance, making them suitable options for those looking for consistent performance in their mechanical keyboards.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Dustproof 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
When it comes to sound, the Dustproof Blue and Yellow Silver switches offer different experiences. The Dustproof Blue switch has a reputation for a distinct clicky sound that is both audible and satisfying for those who enjoy a tactile response. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver switch provides a more neutral sound profile that is moderate and suitable for a variety of users, making it a versatile choice for different preferences and environments.
In terms of feel, the Dustproof Blue and Yellow Silver switches also differ in their tactile feedback. The Dustproof Blue switch is known for its tactile bump and audible click, providing a more pronounced and tactile typing experience. In contrast, the Yellow Silver switch offers a smoother linear feel with no tactile bump, ideal for users who prefer a consistent and uninterrupted keystroke for gaming or fast typing.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a clicky switch with tactile feedback and audible sound, the Dustproof Blue would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother linear switch with a neutral sound profile, the Yellow Silver would be a better fit. Both switches offer quality construction and are designed to meet the needs of gamers and typists alike, ensuring a satisfying typing experience with either option.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a clicky switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a distinct tactile feedback, the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and light linear switch with a neutral sound profile and a medium-light bottom out force, the Outemu Yellow Silver switch would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preferences in terms of actuation force, sound profile, and tactile feel. Choose wisely based on what feels most comfortable and efficient for your typing or gaming experience.