Outemu Silent Yellow Jade vs. Kailh Plum
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade and the Kailh Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade and Kailh Plum stand out as excellent choices for tactile typing experiences. The Outemu Silent Yellow Jade switches are favored for their quiet operation, tactile feedback, and unique "thocky" sound, thanks to the translucent jade yellow housing and punchy tactile bump. On the other hand, the Kailh Plum switches offer a different tactile experience with a hefty feel and a more subtle tactile bump, creating a unique typing sensation. While the Plum switches feature a neutral and enjoyable sound profile, the Silent Yellow Jade switches provide a satisfying typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you decide on the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
pom
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Overall, the housing materials of the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade and the Kailh Plum switches have distinct differences in terms of sound profiles. The Silent Yellow Jade's nylon housing creates a deeper and rounder sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Plum's polycarbonate housing produces a sharper and crisper sound profile because of its stiffer plastic composition. While both materials are classic choices for switch housing, they cater to different preferences in sound aesthetics.
Despite their differences, both the Silent Yellow Jade and the Kailh Plum switches share the characteristic of nylon bottom housing. This results in a commonality in the deeper and fuller sound profile elicited by typing on switches using nylon material. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the overall sound and feel of the switch when pressed, contributing to a consistent experience for users regardless of the top housing material being different.
It is important to note that the qualities brought by the housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch when they differ. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down, while the top housing impacts the sound when a key is released. This division of characteristics ensures that both the Silent Yellow Jade and the Kailh Plum switches deliver a balanced typing experience with a combination of deep, round sounds from the nylon housing and sharp, clear tones from the polycarbonate housing.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, we can see that the Silent Yellow Jade has a lighter actuation force at 50 grams compared to the Plum, which has an unknown actuation force. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force of 70 grams, making them both medium-heavy in terms of typing pressure. The Silent Yellow Jade offers a lighter typing experience, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming, while the Plum provides a slightly heavier push feel for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing pressure and feel.
Travel distance
The Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Kailh Plum tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Kailh Plum has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade. The shorter travel distance of the Outemu switch may appeal to those looking for quicker response times, which is often favored by gamers. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Kailh Plum may provide a more substantial feel for those who prefer a deeper keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of typing experience and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade comes in at $3.10, whereas the Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25.
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, when considering both the sound and feel of the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade and Kailh Plum tactile switches, they offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Silent Yellow Jade provides a quiet and thocky typing experience with a pronounced tactile bump, while the Plum offers a neutral sound profile and a mild, stepped tactile feel. Both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, with the Silent Yellow Jade excelling in quiet tactility and the Plum offering a more gentle and approachable typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and typing style, as they each offer unique qualities that cater to different users.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, consider your preference for a heavier bottom out force. If you prefer a slightly lighter touch, the Silent Yellow Jade with a 65g bottom out force may be more suitable for you. Additionally, if you value a more pronounced tactile bump and a quieter typing experience, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade switch might be the better option. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier keystroke and a unique, mild tactile feel, the Kailh Plum with a 70g bottom out force may be the better choice. Ultimately, both switches offer their own unique qualities, so it really comes down to personal preference and what feels best for your typing style.
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