Outemu Silent Yellow vs. Gateron Silent Ink Black
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Yellow and the Gateron Silent Ink Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Silent Yellow and the Gateron Silent Ink Black mechanical keyboard switches, we find two linear switches that prioritize a quieter typing experience. The Silent Yellow is categorized as undefined, while the Silent Ink Black is known for its silky, muted, and polished attributes. The Silent Yellow offers a unique experience, making it a versatile option for different preferences. On the other hand, the Silent Ink Black is specifically designed for environments that require minimal noise, providing a comfortable typing experience with its cushioned bottom-out feel. Both switches have their strengths, but ultimately, the choice between them will depend on your specific preferences and needs. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Silent Yellow and the Gateron Silent Ink Black, it is clear that they both prioritize creating a distinct sound profile. The polycarbonate top housing of the Silent Yellow produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound, while the Gateron Silent Ink Black's proprietary INK blend top housing offers a pointed and high-pitched, yet not overly sharp, sound profile. Both materials aim to provide a satisfying sound experience for keyboard enthusiasts, with the Silent Yellow's polycarbonate being described as more resonant and clearer, and the Silent Ink Black's INK blend offering a clacky sound that is thinner and higher-pitched.
When it comes to the bottom housing materials, the Silent Yellow's nylon bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black's proprietary INK blend bottom housing complements its top housing by also providing a pointed and high-pitched sound profile. While the nylon housing of the Silent Yellow delivers a duller and rounder sound, the INK blend bottom housing of the Silent Ink Black enhances the overall clacky sound experience of the switch.
Overall, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences in typing experiences. The combination of the housing materials in each switch contributes to the overall tactile and audible feedback that users will experience when typing. While the materials used for the top and bottom housings may differ between the two switches, they both work together to create a satisfying typing experience that aligns with the desired sound profiles. Ultimately, whether using the Outemu Silent Yellow or the Gateron Silent Ink Black, users can expect a high-quality and enjoyable typing experience with distinct sound characteristics.
Weight
The Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch is heavier than the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch in terms of both actuation force and bottom out force. The Silent Yellow requires an actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, which is considered heavy, while the Silent Ink Black has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, which is medium-heavy. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Silent Ink Black, as it has lower force requirements, making it more suitable for long typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow provides a more substantial typing experience with its higher force requirements. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when typing on a keyboard with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel when pressing down on a key. The travel distance is equal for both switches, so you can expect similar results in terms of key feel and feedback. Since they both have a travel distance of 4 mm, there is no difference in the amount of distance traveled between the two switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Silent Ink Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Ink Black for $8.35.
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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch is known for providing a quiet typing experience, but specific descriptors are not available. On the other hand, the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch is praised for its muted sound, which reduces the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards. This makes the Silent Ink Black a great option for environments where minimal noise is preferred.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Silent Yellow switch does not have a specific description available. In contrast, the Gateron Silent Ink Black switch is described as silky and polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience. The cushiony bottom-out feeling of the Silent Ink Black switch, coupled with minimal audio feedback, enhances the overall typing comfort for users.
Considering the available information, it is evident that both the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch offer qualities that cater to users seeking a quieter typing experience. While specific details may vary, such as sound and feel, both switches are engineered to provide a more subdued and enjoyable typing experience. Ultimately, whether opting for the Outemu Silent Yellow or the Gateron Silent Ink Black, users can expect similar results in terms of reduced noise and enhanced typing comfort.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a heavier switch with a bottom out force of 80 grams, the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter switch with a bottom out force of 70 grams and are in need of a quieter typing experience, the Gateron Silent Ink Black linear switch would be more suitable. The Silent Yellow provides a solid typing experience, while the Silent Ink Black offers a cushioned bottom-out feel and minimal audio feedback. Consider your preferences for weight, sound, and feel when deciding between these two switches. Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Silent Yellow and Gateron Silent Ink Black depends on your individual typing preferences and the environment in which you will be using the keyboard.
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