Outemu Silent Yellow vs. Gateron Quinn
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Yellow and the Gateron Quinn switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Silent Yellow, a linear switch, and the Gateron Quinn, a tactile switch, offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. The Outemu Silent Yellow is known for its silent operation, making it ideal for those who prefer a quiet typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn switches are celebrated for their crisp and light tactile feedback, paired with a deep and resonant sound profile that adds character to each keystroke. While the Silent Yellow provides a smooth and noiseless typing experience, the Quinn offers a satisfying tactile bump and unique sound signature. 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
59g
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
3.40 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Silent Yellow and the Gateron Quinn, one key difference is the material used in the top housing. The Silent Yellow utilizes polycarbonate, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. In contrast, the Quinn features a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the Silent Yellow allows for a more resonant sound, while the nylon in the Quinn absorbs more sound for a duller and rounder tone.
When examining the bottom housing of both switches, it becomes apparent that they share the same nylon material. This classic switch housing material offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is softer and absorbs more sound than harder plastics. With both the Silent Yellow and the Quinn utilizing nylon for their bottom housing, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound quality. The nylon bottom housing contributes to the overall typing experience by impacting the bottom-out sound and feel of the keys.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Silent Yellow and the Gateron Quinn housing materials ultimately comes down to personal preference. While the Silent Yellow's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound, the Quinn's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller tone. Both switches share the same nylon bottom housing, resulting in a consistent typing experience in terms of sound profile. Whether you prefer a more resonant sound with the Silent Yellow or a duller tone with the Quinn, the housing materials in these switches play a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience.
Weight
The Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch is heavier than the Gateron Quinn tactile switch in terms of both actuation force and bottom out force. The Silent Yellow requires 65 grams of force to actuate and 80 grams to bottom out, making it a heavy switch overall. On the other hand, the Quinn switch has a lighter actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, the Quinn switch may be the better option. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel, the heavier Silent Yellow switch may be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force and typing experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, the Silent Yellow has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Quinn's 3.4 mm. The Silent Yellow provides a bit more depth when pressing down on a key, which can be beneficial for those who prefer a more substantial feel. On the other hand, the Quinn's slightly shorter travel distance could potentially offer a faster response time, making it a popular choice among gamers. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Silent Yellow leaning towards the longer end and the Quinn slightly shorter. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for keypress depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Quinn has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Quinn for $5.50.
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 Gateron Quinn tactile switch is known for its deep, resonant, and bassy sound profile that adds character to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch is best known for being silent, lacking a distinct sound profile. The Quinn switch will provide a more immersive auditory experience with its rich tones, while the Silent Yellow switch will be nearly silent, ideal for those who prefer a quiet typing environment. Remember that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycap material.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch is described as snappy, polished, bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy, offering a unique combination of responsiveness, smoothness, and tactility. In contrast, the Outemu Silent Yellow switch's feel is unspecified, but as a linear switch, it likely provides a consistent keystroke with no tactile feedback or audible click. Users looking for a switch with a lively, tactile feel may prefer the Gateron Quinn, while those seeking a smooth and linear typing experience may lean towards the Silent Yellow.
Overall, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch stands out for its rich sound profile and unique tactile feedback, making it a popular choice among enthusiasts who value both auditory and tactile sensations in their typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch offers a silent operation and consistent keystrokes, making it a practical option for users who prioritize a noise-free environment and a linear typing feel. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer distinct advantages to enhance your typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when selecting between the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a silent typing experience, the Outemu Silent Yellow may be the right choice for you. However, if you appreciate a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a unique combination of tactile feedback and resonant sound, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch could be more suitable for your typing preferences. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preference for typing experience and sound profile.
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