Outemu Silent Yellow Jade vs. HMX SU
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade and the HMX SU switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between tactile and linear options can significantly influence your typing experience. The Outemu Silent Yellow Jade switches stand out for their quiet yet tactile feedback, offering a satisfying "thocky" sound that's perfect for environments where noise levels need to be kept to a minimum. With their unique translucent jade yellow housing and punchy tactile bump, these switches are designed to provide a delightful typing experience while remaining discreet. On the other hand, the HMX SU switches present a different approach with their linear design, characterized by a smooth keystroke and a subtle, relatively deep sound profile. Constructed with a full PA12 housing and pairing an innovative T5 stem, the SU switches cater to those who prefer an uninterrupted typing flow without the tactile feedback. Each switch has its own strengths, whether you favor the satisfying tactile response of the Silent Yellow Jade or the seamless motion of the HMX SU. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
pom
Stem material
T5
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Silent Yellow Jade and the HMX SU share a strikingly similar design in their housing materials, as both utilize nylon for both the top and bottom housings. This classic switch housing material is known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile, which is a significant characteristic of both switches. As nylon is a softer plastic compared to alternatives, it absorbs sound more effectively, resulting in a duller and rounder tonal quality. This shared material choice suggests that users of both switches can expect a comparable auditory experience while typing, characterized by a muted resonance that enhances the overall user satisfaction.
While both the Silent Yellow Jade and the HMX SU employ nylon across their housings, the impact of this material on their performance can differ subtly based on the individual characteristics of the switches. The bottom housing plays a crucial role in defining the bottom-out sound and tactile feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing influences the auditory feedback as the key is released. Because both switches utilize nylon consistently in both their top and bottom housings, they are likely to produce similar qualities in sound and feel. However, the precise design attributes or internal mechanisms, if varied, could still instantiate differences that might impact user preference between the two.
In conclusion, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade and the HMX SU both exemplify the benefits of nylon as a housing material; however, since both switches highlight this material consistently, users should experience broadly comparable results. The shared properties of nylon, combined with the mechanics of the individual switches, create a synergy that enhances both the tactile and auditory aspects of typing. Ultimately, this leads to a cohesive typing experience where the expected sound profiles remain robust and satisfying, reinforcing how nylon effectively contributes to the performance characteristics in both Outemu and HMX models.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch and the HMX SU linear switch, there is a distinct difference in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Silent Yellow Jade features an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the HMX SU has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of only 50 grams, making it suitable for users seeking a more effortless typing experience. As such, the Silent Yellow Jade will provide a more substantial push feel that some typists prefer for its tactile feedback, while the HMX SU may appeal to those looking to type for extended periods without fatigue. Overall, the Silent Yellow Jade is the heavier option, whereas the HMX SU is the lighter choice, resulting in notably different typing experiences.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch is 3.3 mm, while the HMX SU linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This indicates that the Silent Yellow Jade offers a shorter travel distance compared to the SU switch, making it a more responsive option that caters to gamers who seek quicker key presses for faster reaction times. Conversely, the SU switch, with its longer travel distance, may provide a more substantial feel for users who prefer a deeper and more pronounced key press experience. Ultimately, when choosing between these switches, if responsiveness is a priority, the Silent Yellow Jade is the better choice; however, if depth and a more tactile experience are desired, the HMX SU would be preferable.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX SU has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the SU for $3.29.
The Outemu Silent Yellow Jade comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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 Silent Yellow Jade switch produces a quiet yet satisfying "thocky" noise that makes it well-suited for environments where you need to minimize disturbances. This switch has been finely tuned to achieve a sound profile that balances pleasant auditory feedback with discretion. In contrast, the HMX SU linear switch has a more subtle and deep sound profile, which can create a smoother acoustic experience. Both switches will yield a unique sound signature that will largely depend on the keyboard frame and keycap material used, but the Silent Yellow Jade tends to provide a more pronounced and tactile auditory feedback.
In terms of feel, the Silent Yellow Jade excels in delivering a pronounced tactile bump that helps users feel their keystrokes without the need for a loud click, making it a great option for both typing and gaming. Its factory-lubed design enhances the smoothness of the keystroke, allowing for a comfortable typing experience. The HMX SU linear switch, while lacking a tactile bump, offers a consistently smooth keystroke that many enjoy for its seamless action. The linear nature means that there are no interruptions during the press, providing an entirely different tactile experience that can be more favorable for rapid key presses or gaming scenarios.
In conclusion, both the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch and the HMX SU linear switch offer distinct auditory and tactile experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. If you prefer a more tactile feedback with a muted sound, the Silent Yellow Jade is an excellent choice. Conversely, if you lean towards a smooth, linear feel with a deeper sound profile, the HMX SU will cater to your preferences. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will come down to whether you value tactile feedback or a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke during use.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch and the HMX SU linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a quieter typing experience with a tactile feedback that adds satisfaction without disturbing others, the Silent Yellow Jade is the way to go. Its medium-heavy bottom-out force of 65 grams may appeal to those who enjoy a slightly sturdier keystroke, making it suitable for environments where noise is a concern, such as shared workspaces or late-night gaming sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with smoother keypresses and a softer sound profile, the HMX SU is an excellent choice. With its 50-gram bottom-out force, the SU allows for faster typing and minimal finger fatigue, making it ideal for extensive gaming or lengthy typing sessions. The key here is to reflect on how you interact with your keyboard: if you enjoy a tactile and pronounced response, go for the Silent Yellow Jade; but if you lean towards a smoother experience with lighter actuation, the HMX SU will better suit your needs.
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