Outemu Red vs. Outemu Yellow Silver
An in-depth look at the Outemu Red and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Outemu Red linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, there are some key differences to consider. The Red switch is best known for its smooth and consistent keystrokes, making it ideal for gamers and typists who value precision. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver switch from Outemu is favored for its light actuation force and neutral sound profile, perfect for those who prioritize speediness and responsiveness in their 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
46g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.10 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
The Outemu Red and Outemu Yellow Silver switches both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiff nature of the plastic. This makes them ideal options for users who enjoy a more clear and resonant typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, adding a touch of visual appeal to the switches. Despite their similarities in top housing material, the Outemu Red and Yellow Silver switches differ in their bottom housing material, with the Red using nylon and the Yellow Silver also using nylon. Nylon bottom housings provide a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the polycarbonate top housings.
While the top housings of both the Outemu Red and Yellow Silver switches are made of polycarbonate, the difference in their bottom housings showcases unique qualities that can affect the overall typing experience. The split between the bottom and top housing materials means that users will feel the impact of the bottom housing in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. This distinction highlights how the choice of housing material can play a significant role in shaping the overall typing feel and sound of a switch. Users may prefer the deeper and fuller sound produced by the nylon bottom housing of the Outemu Red or the crisper sound profile created by the polycarbonate top housing of the Outemu Yellow Silver.
In conclusion, the Outemu Red and Outemu Yellow Silver switches offer differing characteristics based on their housing materials, with each contributing to a unique typing experience. The polycarbonate top housing of both switches creates a sharp and clear sound profile, ideal for those who appreciate a more resonant typing experience and want to enhance RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of both switches provides a deeper and fuller sound, absorbing more sound and creating a rounder sound profile. Whether users prefer the sharper sound of the yellow Silver or the fuller sound of the Red, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences in typing feel and sound.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Red linear switch to the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, it is evident that both have fairly light actuation forces. The Red has an actuation force of 46 grams, slightly heavier than the Yellow Silver's 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Red requires 62 grams, which is heavier than the Yellow Silver's 55 grams. The Red switch provides a little more resistance when fully pressed compared to the Yellow Silver, making it slightly heavier overall. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Yellow Silver may be more suitable, while those who enjoy a bit more feedback may lean towards the Red switch. In either case, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience with relatively light actuation forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Red linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, both switches have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key, you will feel the same distance of travel for both switches. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of typing experience and feedback from both switches. So, there is no difference in the travel distance when using either the Outemu Red or Outemu Yellow Silver linear switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Red 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 Red linear switch doesn't have a specific description available, so it's hard to compare it directly with the Outemu Yellow Silver switch. However, based on the information provided, the Yellow Silver switch is known for its neutral sound profile, which suggests a moderate sound level that is suitable for various settings. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be impacted by the keyboard type and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, there is no specific description available for either the Outemu Red or Yellow Silver switches. However, linear switches are generally known for their smooth and consistent feel without any tactile feedback. Both switches are likely to provide a similar typing experience in terms of feel, with a focus on speediness and responsiveness favored by gamers and typists.
Overall, the Outemu Red and Yellow Silver linear switches both offer advantages for those looking for a smooth and responsive typing experience. While the Red switch may have different subjective qualities compared to the Yellow Silver switch, such as sound profile, they are likely to provide similar results in terms of feel due to their linear design. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of sound and any specific typing requirements.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a slightly lighter bottom out force that still provides a responsive typing or gaming experience, the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch with its 55-gram bottom out force could be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a slightly higher bottom out force for a more tactile experience, the Outemu Red linear switch with its 62-gram bottom out force may be more up your alley. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to your personal preference in terms of bottom out force and the type of typing experience you are looking for.
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