Outemu Silent Yellow vs. Outemu Silent Yellow Jade
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Yellow and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch, there are some key differences to consider. The Silent Yellow is best known for its smooth linear feel, while the Silent Yellow Jade offers a quiet, tactile typing experience with a satisfying "thocky" sound. The Silent Yellow is categorized as a linear switch, providing a consistent and uninterrupted keystroke without any tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow Jade is categorized as a tactile switch, featuring a distinctive tactile bump that lets you feel exactly when the key has been actuated. Both switches have their own unique benefits, with the Silent Yellow being ideal for fast typists and gamers looking for a smooth keystroke, and the Silent Yellow Jade being perfect for those who enjoy a more tactile 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
45g
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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 Yellow and Outemu Silent Yellow Jade switches, we can see that the Silent Yellow features a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the Silent Yellow Jade has a nylon top housing, producing a deeper and fuller sound. The difference in housing materials leads to distinct sound characteristics when typing on these switches. The polycarbonate top housing of the Silent Yellow provides a clear and resonant sound, ideal for those looking for a crisper typing experience, while the nylon top housing of the Silent Yellow Jade absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound that may appeal to those seeking a softer typing experience.
When it comes to the bottom housing of the switches, both the Silent Yellow and Silent Yellow Jade utilize nylon, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches. The softer nature of nylon allows for better sound absorption, enhancing the overall typing experience for users of both switches. However, since the bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, users may notice more similarities in this aspect between the two switches compared to the differences in their top housing materials.
Overall, while the Silent Yellow and Silent Yellow Jade switches differ in their top housing materials, with polycarbonate and nylon respectively, they both share the use of nylon for the bottom housing. This means that users can expect a similar deep and full sound profile when typing on both switches. The choice between the two switches will ultimately come down to personal preference for the type of sound and feel they prefer in their typing experience, whether it be the sharper, crisper sound of the Silent Yellow or the deeper, fuller sound of the Silent Yellow Jade.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch, it is clear that the Silent Yellow has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Silent Yellow Jade. The Silent Yellow requires 65 grams of force to actuate and 80 grams to bottom out, making it a heavier option. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow Jade only requires 50 grams of force to actuate and 65 grams to bottom out, making it a lighter option. The Silent Yellow would provide a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier force, whereas the Silent Yellow Jade would be lighter and more suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and weight. If you prefer a heavier force, the Silent Yellow would be the better option, while the Silent Yellow Jade would be suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch.
Travel distance
The Outemu Silent Yellow linear 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 Yellow Jade has a shorter travel distance compared to the Silent Yellow, making it more suitable for those looking for a faster response time. Gamers, in particular, may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Silent Yellow Jade for quicker keystrokes. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow with a longer travel distance may suit those who prefer a more traditional and deeper key press feel. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and tactile feedback.
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 Yellow 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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch is known for being quiet due to its silent design. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch offers a satisfying "thocky" sound, thanks to its unique tactile bump and housing. The sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard it is installed in and the keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch provides a smooth and consistent typing experience, perfect for those who prefer linear switches. In contrast, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch offers a tactile bump that provides feedback with each key press, making it ideal for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience. Both switches are designed to be silent, making them a great choice for those who want a quieter typing experience without sacrificing performance.
In conclusion, the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch offer different qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Silent Yellow is quiet and smooth, while the Silent Yellow Jade provides a tactile typing experience with a unique sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and typing feel. Regardless of the choice made, both switches offer a silent typing experience that is sure to satisfy newcomers looking for a quieter mechanical keyboard switch option.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch, you should consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you prefer a heavy switch with a linear feel and do not mind the lack of tactile feedback, the Outemu Silent Yellow may be the better option for you. However, if you enjoy a medium-heavy switch with a tactile bump and a quieter typing experience, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for switch weight, typing style, and desired sound output.
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