Outemu Dustproof Red vs. Outemu Silent Yellow Jade
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Red and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Outemu Dustproof Red, a linear switch, and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade, a tactile switch, there are key differences to consider. The Dustproof Red is best known for its smooth and consistent keystroke, making it ideal for gamers and typists looking for quick, uninterrupted key presses. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow Jade switches offer a quieter typing experience with a tactile bump, providing a more satisfying feedback for those who prefer a bit of resistance. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and needs. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Dustproof Red and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade, it is evident that the Dustproof Red features a polycarbonate top housing, while the Silent Yellow Jade utilizes a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Dustproof Red results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, ideal for those who prefer a more clear and resonant typing experience. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Silent Yellow Jade offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a duller and rounder sound that may appeal to individuals looking for a more subdued typing sound.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, both the Dustproof Red and the Silent Yellow Jade feature a nylon bottom housing. This choice of material for the bottom housing ensures a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is known for its ability to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. While both switches share this common feature, the difference in top housing material between the two still plays a significant role in shaping the overall sound profile and feel of the typing experience.
Overall, the choice of housing materials for switches can greatly impact the sound and feel of typing. While both the Dustproof Red and the Silent Yellow Jade incorporate nylon in their bottom housings for a similar sound profile, the differing top housing materials - polycarbonate for the Dustproof Red and nylon for the Silent Yellow Jade - create distinct characteristics in the typing experience. Whether you prefer a sharper, higher-pitched sound or a deeper, fuller sound, the housing materials chosen for a switch can help tailor the typing experience to your personal preferences.
Weight
The Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch both have medium to medium-heavy actuation and bottom out forces. The Dustproof Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Silent Yellow Jade's 50 grams, while their bottom out forces are 60 grams and 65 grams, respectively. This means that the Dustproof Red switch requires a lighter touch to register a keypress, which may be preferred by those who type for long periods or engage in extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow Jade switch provides a slightly more substantial typing experience due to its heavier forces, making it suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Both switches offer a balance between responsiveness and keypress feedback, ensuring a satisfying typing experience.
Travel distance
The Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Silent Yellow Jade has a shorter travel distance compared to the Dustproof Red. The Dustproof Red's 4 mm travel distance is more traditional, offering a deeper key press feeling, which some users may prefer for a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow Jade's 3.3 mm travel distance is shallower, making it ideal for those seeking faster response times, such as gamers. Both switches offer different typing experiences based on their travel distances, so choosing between them depends on personal preference for typing feel and response speed.
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 Red and Silent Yellow Jade.
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 Red linear switch is known for being relatively quiet compared to traditional mechanical switches due to its dustproof design. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch is specifically designed to offer a quiet typing experience with a unique "thocky" sound, making it a popular choice for those who prefer a quieter tactile switch option.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch is known for offering a smooth linear typing experience without any tactile feedback. The Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch, on the other hand, provides a satisfying tactile bump while still maintaining a relatively quiet typing experience. This makes it a great option for those who enjoy the feedback of a tactile switch without the excessive noise.
Overall, if you are looking for a quieter typing experience, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch would be the better choice for you. However, if you prioritize a smooth linear typing experience without the distraction of noise, the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch would be a suitable option. Remember that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as your keyboard case and keycap material, so be sure to take those into consideration when making your decision.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a quiet, tactile typing experience with a satisfying "thocky" sound, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. The Silent Yellow Jade switch offers a unique typing experience with its punchy tactile bump and factory-lubed components. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a lighter bottom out force, the Outemu Dustproof Red linear switch might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to whether you prioritize sound and tactile feedback or prefer a smoother linear typing experience. Both switches have their own strengths, and choosing between them will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
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