Outemu Red vs. Outemu Silent Yellow
An in-depth look at the Outemu Red and the Outemu Silent Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to Outemu mechanical keyboard switches, there are two popular options to consider: the Outemu Red and the Outemu Silent Yellow. Both switches fall under the linear switch category, providing a smooth keystroke without a tactile bump or audible click. The Outemu Red switch is known for its light actuation force, making it ideal for fast typists and gamers who prefer a light touch. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow switch offers a quieter typing experience, perfect for those who value a more silent environment without sacrificing the smooth feel of a linear switch. 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
46g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.10 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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 Red and the Outemu Silent Yellow, both switches use polycarbonate for their top housing. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches considering RGB lighting. However, the differences lie in their bottom housing material. The Red utilizes a nylon bottom housing, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile with a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow also features a nylon bottom housing, providing similar sound qualities for a rounder sound when typing.
While both switches share similar top housing materials, their bottom housing materials play a crucial role in determining the overall sound profile and feel of the switch. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both the Outemu Red and the Outemu Silent Yellow contributes to a deeper and fuller sound experience, with the softer plastic absorbing more sound to create a duller and rounder tone. When typing on these switches, the bottom housing's impact is felt, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. This shared characteristic emphasizes the importance of housing materials in enhancing the user's typing experience and the overall sound profile of the switch.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Outemu Red and the Outemu Silent Yellow showcase how different materials can impact the sound profile and feel of mechanical switches. While both switches use polycarbonate for their top housing, providing a clear and resonant sound, their nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound experience with a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. The split between top and bottom housing qualities highlights how each component contributes to the overall typing experience, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound upon releasing the key. Ultimately, understanding the role of housing materials is essential in selecting the right switch for your preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Red linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, it becomes clear that the Red switch is lighter in both regards. The Red switch has an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, making it a more medium-weight option. In contrast, the Silent Yellow switch has an actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, making it a heavier choice. For those who prefer a lighter touch and want to type for extended periods without fatigue, the Outemu Red switch would be the better option. On the other hand, for individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience and prefer a stronger push feel, the Outemu Silent Yellow switch would be the ideal choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Outemu Red linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch both have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users will experience a similar keypress feel and feedback from both switches. Despite having the same travel distance, the Outemu Red linear switch is known for its smooth keystrokes and responsive actuation, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch is designed to reduce noise while typing, providing a quieter typing experience without sacrificing performance. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience with a consistent travel distance, allowing users to choose based on their preference for noise levels while typing.
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 Red 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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Red linear switch is known for producing a light, smooth sound with a consistent feel upon actuation. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch is designed to reduce noise significantly compared to traditional switches, offering a quieter typing experience. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycap material.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Red linear switch provides a linear and consistent keystroke without any tactile bump or audible feedback upon actuation. In contrast, the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch offers the same smooth linear feel but with added dampening components to reduce the noise generated during typing. Both switches provide a comfortable typing experience, with the Silent Yellow offering a quieter operation.
Overall, the Outemu Red and Outemu Silent Yellow linear switches offer similar smooth and linear typing experiences, with the main difference being the noise level produced. If you're looking for a quiet typing experience, the Outemu Silent Yellow would be a great choice, while the Outemu Red would be ideal if noise isn't a concern. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on your preference for typing sound and feel.
Conclusion
Therefore, when deciding between the Outemu Red linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, you should consider your preference for key weight and overall typing experience. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and quieter typing experience, the Outemu Red switch would be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier key weight and are looking for a more silent typing experience, then the Outemu Silent Yellow switch would be the more suitable option. Remember to take into account your personal typing preferences and needs when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, choosing the switch that aligns with your typing style will enhance your overall typing experience.
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