Outemu Dustproof Brown vs. Outemu Yellow Silver
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Brown and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Dustproof Brown and the Outemu Yellow Silver. The Dustproof Brown switch is known for its tactile feedback, providing a satisfying typing experience for those who enjoy a bit of resistance when pressing down keys. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver switch is a linear switch with a light actuation force and a neutral sound profile, making it ideal for gamers and typists who prioritize speediness and responsiveness. While the Dustproof Brown offers a tactile feel, the Yellow Silver provides a smoother keystroke. 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
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The main difference between the housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Brown and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches lies in the top housing material. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This makes them both ideal for RGB lighting setups, thanks to the translucency of polycarbonate. However, where they differ is in the bottom housing material. The Dustproof Brown features a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver also features a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar deep and full sound experience.
While both the Dustproof Brown and the Yellow Silver switches have similar top housing materials in polycarbonate, the impact of the bottom housing material on the overall sound and feel of the switches is worth noting. The softer nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a more rounded and dull sound profile compared to harder plastics. This means that when typing on either switch, you can expect a deeper and fuller typing experience due to the sound-absorbing properties of nylon. Despite the similarities in the bottom housing material, the difference in the top housing material contributes to a slightly different overall sound experience between the two switches.
In conclusion, the Outemu Dustproof Brown and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches offer similar typing experiences due to their shared nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. The differences in the top housing material, with both switches featuring polycarbonate for a sharp and clear sound profile, may lead to a slightly varied sound experience when pressing down and releasing keys. Ultimately, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, but the slight variations in sound profiles between the two may appeal to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The actuation force of the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch is the same at 45 grams, making them both light to press. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Dustproof Brown requires 65 grams, while the Yellow Silver only needs 55 grams. This means that the Dustproof Brown is heavier to press all the way down compared to the Yellow Silver, making it more suitable for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver is lighter to press all the way down, which can be beneficial for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions. Both switches have their advantages depending on personal preference, with the Dustproof Brown being heavier overall and the Yellow Silver being lighter overall.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that whether you choose the Dustproof Brown or the Yellow Silver, you can expect a similar key feel in terms of travel distance. Both switches will offer a consistent typing experience with a standard travel distance, making either option suitable for those looking for a medium key press feel. The similarity in travel distance ensures that users will not notice a significant difference when switching between the two types of switches, allowing for a seamless transition between tactile and linear feedback.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Dustproof Brown 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 Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch has a reputation for being quieter compared to other switches, making it a good choice for those who prefer a more subdued typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch is known for its neutral sound profile, which strikes a balance between being audible enough without being distracting. Both switches offer a pleasant typing experience without being overly loud, so you can expect a similar level of noise from either switch.
Moving on to feel, the Dustproof Brown switch provides a tactile feedback that can enhance the typing experience by giving a slight bump when the key is actuated. This tactile feedback can help typists to know when a keypress has been registered, which can be beneficial for accuracy. Meanwhile, the Yellow Silver switch offers a smooth linear action with no tactile bump, providing a consistent and predictable keystroke that may appeal to gamers and those who prefer a more fluid typing experience. Depending on your personal preference for tactile feedback, you may find one switch more suitable for your typing style.
In conclusion, both the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch offer their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Dustproof Brown may be quieter and provide tactile feedback, the Yellow Silver offers a neutral sound profile and a smooth linear action. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for typing experience, whether you prioritize a tactile bump or prefer a smooth keystroke. Both switches are reputable choices from Outemu and will provide a satisfying typing experience for newcomers looking for a reliable mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, consider the bottom out force and your preference for sound and feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and are looking for a switch with dustproof features, the Dustproof Brown would be a suitable option. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and enjoy a neutral sound profile with a light actuation force, the Yellow Silver switch would be a better fit for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and gaming needs.
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