Outemu Silent Yellow vs. SP-Star Polaris Gray
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Yellow and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Silent Yellow and the SP-Star Polaris Gray are both popular choices in the linear switch category. The Silent Yellow is known for its silent typing experience, making it a great option for those who work in quiet environments or share space with others. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switches are loved for their bouncy typing feel and clean, clacky sound profile. The Silent Yellow is categorized as silent, while the Polaris Gray falls into categories such as low-pitched, neutral, mild, thocky, and polished. Each switch offers unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and needs. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Standard
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
Both the Outemu Silent Yellow and the SP-Star Polaris Gray feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially useful for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. However, the Silent Yellow's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Polaris Gray's polycarbonate bottom housing, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound for a duller and rounder effect.
While the Silent Yellow and Polaris Gray share a polycarbonate top housing that enhances the switch's sound profile, their differences lie in the bottom housing material. The Silent Yellow's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound experience, making typing on these switches feel distinct from the Polaris Gray's crisper and clearer sound produced by its polycarbonate bottom housing. These differences can significantly impact the overall typing experience, from the sound produced to the tactile feedback felt when pressing down on the keys.
The combination of a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing in the Outemu Silent Yellow provides a unique blend of sound profiles, offering a sharp and crisp sound when pressing down and a deeper, fuller sound upon bottoming out. In contrast, the SP-Star Polaris Gray's consistent use of polycarbonate for both top and bottom housings ensures a more uniform sound profile throughout typing. Depending on personal preference, users may find the Silent Yellow's mix of materials appealing for its varied sound experience, while others may prefer the Polaris Gray's consistent and clear sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, it is evident that the Silent Yellow is heavier in both aspects. The Silent Yellow has an actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, making it a switch with a substantial push feel. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray has an unknown actuation force but a bottom out force of 67 grams, which places it in the medium-heavy range. In terms of weight, some users may prefer the lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Polaris Gray, as this allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. However, others who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may gravitate towards the heavier forces of the Silent Yellow. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when typing or gaming on either of these switches, users can expect a consistent experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. The similar travel distance ensures that both switches provide a familiar and comfortable typing or gaming experience for users who prefer switches with a shorter travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Polaris Gray has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Gray for $5.00.
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 linear switch is known for its quiet operation with minimal noise. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch has a low-pitched and thocky sound profile, offering a more bass-heavy and satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired level of sound feedback during typing sessions.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Silent Yellow switch does not have a specific description provided. Conversely, the SP-Star Polaris Gray switch is described as providing a mild and polished typing experience. This means that the Polaris Gray switch offers a gentle and smooth key press, resulting in a comfortable and refined typing feel that most users will find appealing.
Overall, when comparing the Outemu Silent Yellow and SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switches, it is evident that they offer different sound and feel qualities. While the Silent Yellow switch provides a quiet typing experience, the Polaris Gray switch offers a more bouncy and satisfying sound profile along with a polished and mild feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience, users can choose the switch that best suits their needs. If one is looking for a quiet typing experience, they may opt for the Silent Yellow switch, while those seeking a more tactile and satisfying typing feel may prefer the Polaris Gray switch. Ultimately, both switches are excellent choices that can provide a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when selecting between the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you prefer a heavier bottom out force and are looking for a silent typing experience, the Silent Yellow may be the better choice for you. However, if you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force with a bouncy and clean sound profile, the Polaris Gray could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so make sure to choose based on your individual typing style and sound preferences. Happy typing!
Mentioned in this article
