Outemu Silent Yellow vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Yellow and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Outemu Silent Yellow and Akko V3 Silver Pro are two popular options with distinct characteristics. The Silent Yellow is a linear switch known for its silent operation, making it ideal for shared workspaces or late-night gaming sessions. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro is also a linear switch but is specifically designed with gamers in mind. With its light actuation force and shortened travel distance, it offers a smooth and efficient typing experience, perfect for competitive gaming. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences and needs. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
13.8mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Silent Yellow and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches share many similarities, as both feature polycarbonate top housings. The use of polycarbonate in switch housings creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiff nature. This results in a more clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal choice for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. However, the difference lies in the bottom housing material, with the Silent Yellow featuring a nylon bottom housing while the V3 Silver Pro also utilizes a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile, absorbing more sound than harder plastics and providing a duller and rounder sound.
While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a similar sound profile, the use of nylon bottom housings in the Silent Yellow and V3 Silver Pro switches showcases a difference in sound and feel. The bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, with nylon creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the top housing material impacts the sound when the key is released, with polycarbonate delivering a sharper and crisper sound. This split of qualities between the top and bottom housings allows for a more nuanced typing experience, catering to both the actuation and release of the keys.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Silent Yellow and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches may come down to personal preference in sound and feel. While both switches offer similar sound profiles with their polycarbonate top housings, the difference in bottom housing material showcases a distinct typing experience. The Silent Yellow's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the V3 Silver Pro's nylon bottom housing offers a similar typing experience. Whether one prefers a duller and rounder sound or a sharper and crisper sound, these housing materials play a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, it is evident that they vary significantly in terms of weight. The Silent Yellow switch has a heavier actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the V3 Silver Pro switch is lighter, with an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it easier to type for longer periods without fatigue. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Akko V3 Silver Pro would be the ideal choice, while the Outemu Silent Yellow would cater more to individuals who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the weight of a switch is a crucial factor to consider based on individual preferences and intended use.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch is 4 mm, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Silent Yellow has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the V3 Silver Pro. The 0.7 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can affect the overall typing experience. Those who prefer a deeper key press and more substantial feedback may lean towards the Silent Yellow switch, while individuals looking for a quicker response time may opt for the V3 Silver Pro. Ultimately, both switches provide a smooth linear typing experience, but the slight difference in travel distance may affect how the keys feel when typing.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Silver Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Silver Pro for $3.10.
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 switch is known for its quiet operation, making it ideal for environments where noise may be a concern. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch is described as producing a high-pitched sound that is sharp and crisp. This difference in sound profile means that users looking for a quieter typing experience may prefer the Silent Yellow, while those who enjoy a more distinct and pronounced sound with each keystroke might lean towards the V3 Silver Pro.
Moving on to feel, the Outemu Silent Yellow switch does not have specific descriptors available, but it is known for offering a smooth linear typing experience. In contrast, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch is characterized as easy-to-press, creamy, feathery, polished, and silky. This means that users can expect a typing experience that is responsive, effortless, and comfortable with the V3 Silver Pro switch, thanks to its light actuation force and refined key feel.
Taking all the available information into consideration, if you value a quiet typing experience and a smooth linear feel, the Outemu Silent Yellow switch may be the best choice for you. However, if you are a gamer seeking a switch that offers a distinct sound profile and a comfortable, low-impact typing experience, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch would be a suitable option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and the specific requirements of your intended use case.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch or the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, you should take into account your preferences for key actuation force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a heavier bottom out force and are looking for a switch with a silent operation, the Outemu Silent Yellow may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a lighter actuation force, a satisfying bassy sound profile, and a smooth and effortless typing experience, the Akko V3 Silver Pro would likely be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and the specific use case for your keyboard.
Mentioned in this article
