Outemu Silent Yellow vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Yellow and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, there are a few key differences to consider. The Silent Yellow is known for its quiet operation, making it a great option for those who need to type in a noise-sensitive environment. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis offers a tactile bump and a satisfying typing experience with its 50g tactile force. If you prefer a switch that provides a bit more feedback and a unique typing experience, the Phalaenopsis may be the better choice for you. 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
37g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Silent Yellow and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches share some similarities, as both feature a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. Additionally, its translucency makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. However, where they differ is in their bottom housing material. The Silent Yellow boasts a nylon bottom housing, known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature and greater sound absorption. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a sharper and clearer sound profile.
While the Silent Yellow and Phalaenopsis both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, their choice of bottom housing material results in different sound profiles and typing experiences. The nylon bottom housing of the Silent Yellow creates a duller and rounder sound due to its softer nature, providing a unique typing experience. In contrast, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Phalaenopsis maintains a sharper and crisper sound profile, complementing the top housing material. This difference in bottom housing materials highlights how various housing materials can impact the overall sound and feel of a switch, offering users a range of experiences to choose from based on their preferences.
In terms of design and functionality, the top and bottom housings of a switch play distinct roles in determining the sound and feel of typing on the switch. The qualities of the bottom housing, whether it be nylon or polycarbonate, will have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the top housing material, typically polycarbonate in these cases, will influence the sound produced when releasing a key. This split in housing materials allows for a nuanced typing experience, with each housing material contributing unique qualities to the overall sound profile of the switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, significant differences can be seen. The Silent Yellow switch has a higher actuation force of 65 grams compared to the Phalaenopsis switch's lighter 37 grams. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Silent Yellow switch is 80 grams, heavier than the Phalaenopsis switch's 50 grams. This means that the Silent Yellow switch provides a more substantial and firmer typing experience with a heavier touch, while the Phalaenopsis switch offers a lighter and more delicate feel. Those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming may lean towards the Phalaenopsis switch, while those who enjoy a stronger push for a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Silent Yellow switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing style.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either switch, users can expect a consistent feel and travel distance. The similarity in travel distance between the two switches allows for similar typing experiences in terms of key press depth and actuation. However, it is worth noting that the Phalaenopsis switch provides a tactile feedback while the Silent Yellow switch does not. This means that despite the same travel distance, users may notice a difference in typing feel between the two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer a moderate travel distance that strikes a balance between keypress depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
The Outemu Silent Yellow 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 switch is known for its quiet operation, making it a great choice for those who prefer a more discreet typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis switch offers a bassy and thocky sound profile, providing a deeper and richer auditory feedback during key presses. Depending on personal preference, the Silent Yellow switch might be more suitable for those who value a quiet typing environment, while the Phalaenopsis switch would appeal to those who enjoy a more pronounced and satisfying sound with each keystroke.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Silent Yellow switch does not have a specific feel descriptor provided, so it is difficult to directly compare it with the Phalaenopsis switch. The Phalaenopsis switch is described as having a stepped feel, which indicates that it offers a unique tactile experience with two distinct stages during the keystroke. This means that users can feel both pre-travel and post-travel sensations, providing a different typing sensation compared to linear switches like the Silent Yellow. If you enjoy a more nuanced tactile feedback with varying stages of keypress sensation, the Phalaenopsis switch may be the preferred choice for you.
Overall, the Outemu Silent Yellow switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis switch offer distinct sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. The Silent Yellow switch excels in providing a quiet typing experience, while the Phalaenopsis switch stands out for its bassy and thocky sound profile and stepped tactile feel. Depending on whether you prioritize sound, feel, or a combination of both, you can make an informed decision on which switch would best suit your typing style and preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality performance and can deliver satisfying typing experiences depending on your individual preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams and a silent typing experience, the Silent Yellow is the way to go. On the other hand, if you favor a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams, along with a satisfying tactile bump and minimal finger fatigue, the Phalaenopsis switch is the better choice. Additionally, if you appreciate a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses, the Phalaenopsis switch offers a bassy and thocky sound experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for typing feel, sound, and bottom out force.
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