Outemu Dustproof Purple vs. Outemu Silent Yellow
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the Outemu Silent Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the Outemu Silent Yellow. The Dustproof Purple is a clicky switch, known for its satisfying tactile feedback and audible click sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow is a linear switch, providing a smooth and quiet typing experience. While the Dustproof Purple is favored by those who enjoy the audible feedback and distinct click feel, the Silent Yellow appeals to users who prefer a quieter and more consistent 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
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the Outemu Silent Yellow, we find that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed to incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, both the Dustproof Purple and Silent Yellow switches will offer similar sound profiles and aesthetics when it comes to their top housings.
However, the key point of differentiation between these two switches lies in their bottom housing materials. The Dustproof Purple features a nylon bottom housing, which is revered for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound vibrations. This results in a more muted and rounded sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow also incorporates a nylon bottom housing, ensuring that users will experience a similar level of sound depth and richness as with the Dustproof Purple.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon housing materials in both the Outemu Dustproof Purple and Silent Yellow switches provides a balance of sharpness and depth in sound profiles. While the top housing impacts the sound when a key is released, the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when typing. This split in housing materials allows for a nuanced typing experience that caters to both the auditory and tactile preferences of users. Whether you choose the Dustproof Purple or the Silent Yellow, you can expect a satisfying blend of crispness and fullness in your typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch differ in weight. The Dustproof Purple has a lighter actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow has a heavier actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, categorizing it as a heavy switch. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Dustproof Purple would be the better choice. In contrast, individuals looking for a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may find the Silent Yellow more suitable. Both switches offer distinct levels of force that cater to different preferences, allowing users to find the perfect fit for their typing needs.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, we find that both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience a similar amount of travel before the key actuates. While the Dustproof Purple clicky switch offers a tactile feedback with an audible click, the Silent Yellow linear switch provides a smooth and quiet keystroke. Both switches provide a consistent travel distance, making them suitable for different preferences in typing experience. Overall, the travel distance of both switches is equal, offering a reliable performance for users seeking a specific type of tactile or linear switch.
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 Purple 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 Purple clicky switch is known for its clicky sound profile, providing a satisfying click with each keystroke. This audible feedback can be quite loud compared to other switches, which some users find enjoyable for typing but may be bothersome to others, especially in quiet environments. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch is designed to minimize sound, offering a smooth and quiet typing experience. The linear feel of the Silent Yellow switch means that there is no tactile bump or audible click, resulting in a more subdued typing experience that is preferred by those who value silence during use.
When it comes to typing feel, the Dustproof Purple switch is known for its tactile feedback, providing a noticeable bump with each key press. This tactile response can help typists to accurately feel when a key has been actuated, improving typing speed and accuracy. In contrast, the Silent Yellow switch offers a linear feel with consistent resistance throughout the keystroke without any tactile feedback. This smooth and constant feel can be preferred by users who prefer a more seamless typing experience without any distractions.
Overall, the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch offer distinct sound and feel characteristics. The Dustproof Purple switch is ideal for those who enjoy a clicky sound and tactile feedback, while the Silent Yellow switch is suited for users who value a quiet and smooth typing experience. Whether you choose the Dustproof Purple or Silent Yellow, it is important to consider your personal preferences for sound and feel, as well as other factors such as keycap material and keyboard construction, to ensure that you achieve the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, you should consider your preference in terms of actuation force and sound. The Dustproof Purple with its medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams is a great choice for those who prefer a tactile experience and enjoy the satisfying clicky sound it produces. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow with its heavier bottom out force of 80 grams is ideal for those who prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience without the distraction of audible clicks. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and preferences for sound and feel.
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