Outemu Silent Yellow Jade vs. Gateron Type L
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade and the Gateron Type L switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade and Gateron Type L stand out as unique options. The Outemu Silent Yellow Jade offers a quiet, tactile typing experience with a satisfying "thocky" sound, thanks to its punchy tactile bump and translucent jade yellow housing. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L is part of Sillyworks' innovative "Project Rehash," boasting a light actuation force of 45g and a sound signature that leans towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum. While the Silent Yellow Jade is known for its tactile feedback, the Type L is praised for its feather-light feel and easy-to-press nature. 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
38g
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
pom
Stem material
POM
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 housing materials of the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade and the Gateron Type L are both made of nylon, a softer plastic that absorbs sound effectively, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This common material choice ensures that both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound and tactile feedback. However, any potential differences in the design or construction of the housing may still influence the overall feel and sound of the switches.
In terms of the nylon top housing, both the Silent Yellow Jade and the Type L switches will provide a similar typing experience due to the properties of the material. The softness of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. This means that users can expect a consistent deep and full sound when typing on either switch, making them suitable choices for those looking for a quieter typing experience.
Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade and the Gateron Type L will contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switches. The impact of the bottom housing can affect the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing may have a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key. As both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, users can anticipate a similar tactile feedback and sound profile when typing on either switch, ensuring a consistent experience between the two.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch show clear differences in weight. The Silent Yellow Jade has a medium-heavy actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Type L has a light actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. The Silent Yellow Jade offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces, making it suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Type L provides a lighter touch, making it ideal for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons where fatigue may be a concern. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference for either a lighter or heavier feel.
Travel distance
The Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Gateron Type L linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Type L has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Silent Yellow Jade. The 4.0mm travel distance of the Type L is more traditional, providing a deeper keystroke feeling, which some users may prefer for a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the 3.3mm travel distance of the Silent Yellow Jade offers a quicker response time, making it more suitable for gamers looking for a faster keystroke. Both switches offer different typing experiences based on their travel distances, so choosing between the two will depend on individual preference for either a shorter or longer travel distance.
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 Gateron Type L comes in at $4.70.
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 provides a satisfying "thocky" sound which is notably quiet, ideal for those who prefer a subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L switch offers a more neutral and subdued sound profile, making it versatile for various environments and typing preferences. Both switches can offer a pleasant typing experience, with the Silent Yellow Jade leaning towards a quieter operation, while the Type L leans towards a more subtle and gentle sound.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade switch offers a punchy tactile bump, providing a satisfying tactile feedback for each key press. Meanwhile, the Gateron Type L switch is known for its feathery feel, requiring minimal effort to press down on the keys, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Both switches offer unique tactile characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the Silent Yellow Jade offering a more prominent bump sensation and the Type L providing a lighter, easier-to-press experience.
Overall, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade and Gateron Type L switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Silent Yellow Jade excels in providing a quiet and tactile typing experience with a pronounced bump, while the Gateron Type L offers a lighter actuation force and a more subdued sound profile. Depending on personal preferences and typing habits, both switches can deliver a pleasant typing experience tailor-made to individual needs. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will come down to whether you prefer a quieter tactile experience with a significant bump sensation or a lighter, easy-to-press feel with a more neutral sound profile.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, you should consider the factors of sound and feel. If you prioritize a quiet and tactile typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a light, linear switch with a subdued sound profile and feathery feel that reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions, the Gateron Type L switch is the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing needs.
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