Outemu Silent Yellow vs. Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2)
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Yellow and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Silent Yellow, a linear switch, and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2), also a linear switch. The Outemu Silent Yellow is known for its quiet operation and smooth keystrokes, making it ideal for those who prefer a noise-free typing experience. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) stands out with its clacky and resonant notes, enhanced by a superior factory lube job that ensures each keystroke is silky smooth. While the Silent Yellow may appeal to those seeking a quiet and seamless typing experience, the Strawberry Wine (V2) is perfect for users who enjoy a bit of auditory feedback and a higher-pitched sound. 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
52g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
pom
Stem material
Y3
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Ly
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Single-staged 21mm lengthened spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Silent Yellow and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2), one key difference lies in their top housing materials. The Silent Yellow boasts a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2) features a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. This contrast in sound profiles highlights the impact that top housing materials have on the overall typing experience.
On the flip side, both switches share a nylon bottom housing material, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is recognized as a classic switch housing material that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This similarity in bottom housing material suggests that despite the differences in their top housing materials, both the Silent Yellow and the Strawberry Wine (V2) may offer a consistent experience in terms of typing sound and feel.
When considering how the different housing materials affect the typing experience, it becomes clear that the bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. This distinction highlights how the choice of housing materials in a switch can shape the overall sound profile and tactile feedback. Whether opting for the crisper sound of polycarbonate in the Silent Yellow or the deeper sound of POM in the Strawberry Wine (V2), users can customize their typing experience based on their preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, we can see a clear contrast in their weight. The Silent Yellow has a heavier actuation force and bottom out force of 65 grams and 80 grams, respectively, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Strawberry Wine (V2) is lighter with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a lighter switch for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons. The difference in weight between the two switches makes them suitable for different preferences, with the Silent Yellow offering a heavier typing feel and the Strawberry Wine (V2) providing a lighter touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, it is clear that the Silent Yellow has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Strawberry Wine's 3.4 mm. The Silent Yellow's 4.0mm travel distance is more traditional, while the Strawberry Wine's 3.4mm distance is shallower. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Strawberry Wine for faster response times, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may opt for the Silent Yellow. Both switches offer different tactile experiences based on their travel distances, so choosing between the two will depend on individual preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Strawberry Wine (V2) for $4.35.
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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Silent Yellow switch is known for its quiet operation, making it ideal for those looking for a more discreet typing experience. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch is described as clacky, resonant, and high-pitched, offering a sharp and lively sound profile that can be both satisfying and attention-grabbing. The choice between the two switches will ultimately come down to personal preference, with the Silent Yellow providing a more subdued sound while the Strawberry Wine (V2) offering a more vibrant and dynamic auditory experience.
Moving on to feel, the Outemu Silent Yellow switch does not have a specific feel descriptor provided in the information provided. In contrast, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch is described as offering a silky smooth typing experience, minimizing resistance and enhancing overall smoothness when pressing and releasing keys. This indicates that the Strawberry Wine (V2) switch may offer a more luxurious and effortless typing feel compared to the Silent Yellow switch.
In conclusion, the Outemu Silent Yellow and Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switches offer distinct sound profiles and tactile experiences. The Silent Yellow switch is favored for its quiet operation, making it suitable for those who prefer a more subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch provides a clacky, resonant, and high-pitched sound along with a silky smooth feel, appealing to users looking for a more vibrant and luxurious typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, with both options offering unique qualities for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch and the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) linear switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a heavier key press, the Silent Yellow with its 80-gram bottom out force may be more suitable for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch, the Strawberry Wine (V2) with its 50-gram bottom out force is a better option. Additionally, if you value a clacky and resonant sound profile along with a silky smooth typing experience, the Sarokeys Strawberry Wine (V2) switch would be the ideal choice for you. Ultimately, it all comes down to your personal preferences in terms of key feel and sound when selecting the most suitable mechanical keyboard switch for your needs.