Outemu Silent Yellow vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Yellow and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Outemu Silent Yellow and Jerrzi Salt Ice mechanical keyboard switches, there are distinct characteristics that set them apart. The Outemu Silent Yellow is renowned for its quiet operation, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a more discreet typing experience. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches are known for their vibrant feedback and light touch, providing a lively and responsive typing experience. While both switches offer unique advantages, such as the Silent Yellow's noise reduction and the Salt Ice's energetic feel, each switch caters to different preferences and requirements. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Silent Yellow and the Jerrzi Salt Ice, it is clear that both switches feature polycarbonate top housings. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, leading to a more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches designed for RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this common feature, the Silent Yellow stands out with its nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate.
Despite the differences in their bottom housings, both the Outemu Silent Yellow and the Jerrzi Salt Ice are likely to offer similar results when it comes to sound production. The polycarbonate top housing of both switches creates a distinct sound profile that is sharp, high-pitched, and clear, matching in terms of resonance and overall acoustics. However, where they differ is in the tactile experience of typing on these switches. The Nylon bottom housing of the Silent Yellow will provide a softer and more dampened typing feel compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Salt Ice, which may offer a slightly firmer and more responsive typing experience.
In summary, the Outemu Silent Yellow and the Jerrzi Salt Ice showcase the impact of housing materials on the sound and feel of mechanical keyboard switches. While both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and crisp sound profile, their differences lie in the bottom housing material. The Silent Yellow's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, creating a softer typing experience, while the Salt Ice's polycarbonate bottom housing offers a more resonant sound and potentially a firmer typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference for sound, feel, and aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, it is clear that there are significant differences between the two. The Silent Yellow has a higher actuation force of 65 grams compared to the Salt Ice's lighter actuation force of 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Silent Yellow also requires more pressure at 80 grams, whereas the bottom out force for the Salt Ice is unknown. These variations in force highlight the differences in typing experiences that users can expect from each switch. Those who prefer a heavier typing feel may lean towards the Silent Yellow, while users who enjoy a lighter touch may find the Salt Ice more suitable for their needs. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch is 4 mm, while the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Silent Yellow has a longer travel distance compared to the Salt Ice. The difference of 0.6 mm may seem small, but it can have a significant impact on the typing experience. A longer travel distance can provide a more satisfying key press for some users, offering a greater sense of depth and feedback. On the other hand, a shorter travel distance can be advantageous for those looking for quicker response times, such as gamers. Both switches offer their own unique typing experience, with the Silent Yellow providing a deeper key press and the Salt Ice offering a slightly faster response. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and speed.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jerrzi Salt Ice has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Salt Ice for $2.30.
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
The Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch is known for providing a smooth and quiet typing experience, making it ideal for those who prefer a more subtle and discreet keyboard sound. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch is recognized for its bright and clacky characteristics, offering a more tactile and energetic typing feel. The Silent Yellow switch may feel more linear and consistent in its actuation, while the Salt Ice switch provides a sharper and more pronounced feedback with its light touch.
When considering both switches together, it becomes evident that they offer quite distinct typing experiences. The Outemu Silent Yellow switch caters to individuals who value a quieter and smoother typing feel, while the Jerrzi Salt Ice switch appeals to those who enjoy a more vibrant and engaging feedback. Depending on personal preference, one might find the Silent Yellow switch more suitable for a calm and focused typing session, while the Salt Ice switch could be a better fit for a dynamic and responsive typing experience. Ultimately, both switches will provide a high-quality typing experience, it just depends on what type of experience you are looking for.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, it comes down to your preferences and typing style. If you prefer a heavier switch with a bottom out force of 80 grams and are looking for a quieter typing experience, the Silent Yellow would be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a lighter touch and are looking for a switch that provides vibrant feedback and a clacky sound, the Salt Ice would be the more suitable option. Consider how you value typing feel, sound, and actuation force when making your decision. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing preferences.
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