Outemu Silent Grey vs. Outemu Silent Yellow Jade
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Grey and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Silent Grey and Outemu Silent Yellow Jade both offer quiet typing experiences with tactile feedback. The Silent Grey is known for its highly tactile typing experience with a pronounced bump, perfect for those who enjoy a satisfying yet silent keystroke. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow Jade provides a tactile typing experience with a unique "thocky" sound and a translucent jade yellow housing for added aesthetic appeal. While both switches offer a quiet typing experience, they cater to different preferences in terms of the tactile feedback and sound produced. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
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 Silent Grey and Outemu Silent Yellow Jade, it is clear that they both feature nylon top housings. This means that both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softness of the nylon material. However, the Silent Grey's polycarbonate bottom housing will have a different impact on the sound profile compared to the Silent Yellow Jade's nylon bottom housing. The polycarbonate material is stiffer, creating a clearer and resonant sound profile, while the nylon material absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
While both switches share the use of nylon for their top housing, the difference in their bottom housing materials affects the overall sound and feel of the switches. The Silent Grey's polycarbonate bottom housing will contribute to a sharper and crisper sound profile when pressing down on the switch, contrasted with the duller and rounder sound created by the Silent Yellow Jade's nylon bottom housing. This distinction highlights how the choice of housing material can impact the overall typing experience, from the initial press to the release of a key.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Silent Grey and Outemu Silent Yellow Jade will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel. The use of different materials in the top and bottom housings of each switch allows for a unique combination of characteristics that cater to individual preferences. Whether one prefers a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile with the Silent Grey or a deeper, fuller sound profile with the Silent Yellow Jade, both switches offer a distinct typing experience based on the materials used in their construction.
Weight
The Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch both have the same actuation force of 50 grams and bottom out force of 65 grams, making them equal in terms of weight. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of the force needed to trigger a keystroke and the amount of pressure required to fully press a key. In terms of weight, both switches fall into the medium-heavy category, providing a balance between a light typing experience for extended periods and a more robust feel for those who prefer a stronger push. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would come down to personal preference in terms of weight and typing experience.
Travel distance
The Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Silent Grey has a longer travel distance than the Silent Yellow Jade, making it slightly slower to actuate. The Silent Yellow Jade, on the other hand, has a shorter travel distance, which may appeal to those looking for a faster response time. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Yellow Jade being slightly shallower. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and 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 Silent Grey 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
Overall, the Outemu Silent Grey and Silent Yellow Jade tactile switches both offer a quiet typing experience, making them ideal for office environments or late-night typing sessions. The Silent Grey provides a smooth keystroke with a pronounced bump, while the Silent Yellow Jade features a "thocky" sound and a punchy tactile bump. Depending on personal preference, the Silent Grey may be favored for its smooth feel, while the Silent Yellow Jade may appeal to those who enjoy a more audible typing experience. Both switches are factory-lubed and come in unique housing colors, with the Silent Grey in a standard gray housing and the Silent Yellow Jade in a translucent jade yellow housing. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to individual preference in sound and feel.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch, it will come down to personal preference and the specific qualities you are looking for in a keyboard switch. If you prioritize a highly tactile typing experience with a smooth keystroke and quiet operation, the Silent Grey may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a more pronounced "thocky" sound and a unique translucent yellow housing, the Silent Yellow Jade could be the one to go for. Consider your typing style, noise sensitivity, and aesthetic preferences when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer a quiet and tactile typing experience, so you can't go wrong with either choice.
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