Outemu Purple vs. Outemu Yellow Silver
An in-depth look at the Outemu Purple and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Purple and Outemu Yellow Silver are two popular options that offer different typing experiences. The Outemu Purple switch is a tactile switch, providing a noticeable bump when pressed, which is ideal for typists who prefer feedback during typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver switch is a linear switch, offering a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile feedback, making it favorable for gamers and typists looking for 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
N/A
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Purple and Outemu Yellow Silver switches, it's clear that both switches use polycarbonate for their top housing. This means that both switches will have a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. The differences in sound between these two switches will likely come from their bottom housing materials, with the Purple using nylon and the Yellow Silver also utilizing nylon for its bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to stiffer plastics.
In terms of sound production, the impact of the nylon bottom housing on both the Outemu Purple and Outemu Yellow Silver switches will result in a deeper and fuller sound when typing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. This means that both switches will provide a more pleasant typing experience in terms of sound. However, the differentiation between the two switches may come from the top housing material, as this will impact the sound when releasing a key. Despite this, the use of nylon for the bottom housing in both switches suggests that they will have a similar typing experience in terms of sound quality and feel.
Overall, the choice of housing materials for the Outemu Purple and Outemu Yellow Silver switches highlights the importance of polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. While both switches will produce a sharp and crisp sound profile due to their polycarbonate top housing, the use of nylon for the bottom housing will result in a deeper and fuller sound when typing. This demonstrates how the combination of different housing materials can impact the overall sound profile and typing experience of mechanical switches, even when other components are the same.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Purple tactile switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, it is evident that the Yellow Silver is the lighter of the two. The Purple switch has an actuation force of 50 grams, while the Yellow Silver has a slightly lighter actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Purple switch lacks information on its bottom out force, whereas the Yellow Silver has a bottom out force of 55 grams, which is considered medium-light. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Yellow Silver switch for longer typing sessions or gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Purple switch, as it provides a slightly heavier actuation force. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Outemu Purple tactile switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch both have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience a similar distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Both switches provide a consistent typing experience in terms of travel distance, making them suitable for users who prefer a standard key press feel. Although they have different tactile feedback mechanisms - with the Purple being tactile and the Yellow Silver being linear - their travel distances remain equal, ensuring that users will get similar results in terms of key press distance regardless of their preference for tactile or linear switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Purple 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 Purple tactile switch does not have a specific descriptor provided, which may indicate that it produces a sound that is not particularly distinctive. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that it produces a moderate sound level that is suitable for various environments and preferences. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by variables such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, information about the tactile feedback of the Outemu Purple switch is not available, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect. Similarly, details about the key feel of the Outemu Yellow Silver switch are not provided. However, based on the fact that it is a linear switch with a light actuation force, it can be inferred that the Yellow Silver switch offers a smooth typing experience without tactile feedback.
Overall, the Outemu Purple tactile switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch offer different qualities that cater to distinct preferences. While the Purple switch may provide a more subdued sound profile, the Yellow Silver switch is designed for speed and responsiveness with its light actuation force. Both switches are products of Outemu's reputation for producing quality switches, so regardless of your choice, you can expect reliable performance. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Purple tactile switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, you should choose the Outemu Purple if you prefer a switch with no bottom out force and are looking for a unique typing or gaming experience. The Purple switch's tactile feedback may suit those who enjoy a tactile bump while typing or gaming. On the other hand, opt for the Outemu Yellow Silver if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a neutral sound profile. This switch is ideal for gamers and typists looking for a smooth and responsive typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
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