Outemu Lotus vs. Outemu Silent Yellow Jade
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lotus and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between two popular mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Lotus and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade, there are key differences to consider. The Lotus is a linear switch, offering a smooth keystroke without any tactile feedback, making it ideal for fast-paced typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow Jade is a tactile switch, providing a quiet yet satisfying typing experience with a noticeable tactile bump. While the Lotus may appeal to those who prefer a consistent and uninterrupted keystroke, the Silent Yellow Jade is perfect for those looking for a quieter option with tactile feedback. 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
35g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
pom
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
Nylon
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Lotus and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade, it becomes evident that both switches utilize the same nylon material for their top and bottom housings. This means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile from both switches. The nylon material used in the housings of both switches is known for absorbing sound and producing a deeper, fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. This provides a more muted and rounded sound when typing on either switch.
Despite both switches using the same nylon material for their housing, there may be subtle differences in the typing experience between the Outemu Lotus and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade due to other factors such as stem and spring design. The bottom housing of a switch typically has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a bigger role in the sound when a key is released. This means that even though both switches share the same housing material, the overall typing experience may vary slightly depending on the design of other components within the switch.
In conclusion, the housing material of the Outemu Lotus and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade may be the same, but the overall typing experience can still differ slightly due to the unique stem and spring design of each switch. Both switches will offer a more muted and deeper sound profile compared to switches with harder plastics, thanks to the sound-absorbing properties of nylon. Ultimately, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile when using either switch, making them both great options for those looking for a quieter typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the Outemu Lotus linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch, there are noticeable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Lotus has a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Silent Yellow Jade has a heavier actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams. The lighter actuation force of the Lotus may appeal to those who prefer a gentler typing experience, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the heavier actuation force of the Silent Yellow Jade offers a more substantial typing feel, which some users may prefer for added precision and feedback. Both switches provide unique typing experiences based on their respective actuation and bottom out forces, catering to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.
Travel distance
The Outemu Lotus linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch both have a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making their keypress experiences very similar. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, users will feel the same amount of travel distance from the top to the bottom. The consistent travel distance of both switches allows for a balanced typing experience, whether you prefer a linear or tactile feel. In terms of travel distance, there is no difference between the Outemu Lotus linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch, making them equally suitable options for keyboard enthusiasts looking for a specific typing experience.
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 Lotus 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
The Outemu Lotus linear switch is known for its smooth keystrokes without any tactile bump or audible click, providing a quiet typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch offers a unique "thocky" sound and a noticeable tactile bump, giving users a satisfying feedback while typing. When considering sound, the Lotus switch would be ideal for those looking for a silent typing experience, while the Silent Yellow Jade switch would appeal to those who enjoy a tactile feedback with a subtle sound profile. In terms of feel, the Lotus switch provides a linear keystroke without any tactile feedback, while the Silent Yellow Jade switch offers a tactile bump that is felt throughout each keystroke. Overall, depending on personal preference, the Lotus switch would be preferred for silent typing, while the Silent Yellow Jade switch would be favored for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience with a unique sound profile.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Lotus linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch, you should consider a few key factors. If you prefer a light bottom out force and are looking for a smooth, linear typing experience, the Lotus switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and enjoy a quiet, tactile typing experience with a satisfying "thocky" sound, the Silent Yellow Jade switch would be a great option. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences in terms of typing feel, sound, and bottom out force. By carefully considering these factors, you can choose the switch that best suits your needs and enhances your typing experience.
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