Outemu Silent Yellow vs. HMX Sunset Gleam

Overview

When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Silent Yellow and the HMX Sunset Gleam present distinct yet appealing features for different typing experiences. The Silent Yellow, a linear switch, offers a smooth keystroke without any tactile bump or audible click, making it an ideal choice for those who value a quiet and discreet typing experience, especially in shared environments. On the other hand, the HMX Sunset Gleam, often referred to as the Duck Duck switch, combines a satisfying sound with a smooth actuation, thanks to its high-quality materials and excellent factory lube, making it a great option for gamers and typists who enjoy a subtle yet noticeable feedback during typing sessions. While both switches cater to linear preferences, one leans towards silence and solitude, while the other embraces a more tactile auditory response. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.

By the numbers

Outemu Silent Yellow Linear

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$3.10 per 10

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Outemu Silent Yellow and the HMX Sunset Gleam share notable similarities in their construction materials, particularly in the top housing, which in both cases is made from polycarbonate. This choice of material is a significant factor in achieving a distinct auditory experience, as polycarbonate is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The rigidity of polycarbonate contributes to its resonant sound characteristics, thereby enhancing the auditory feedback of keystrokes. Moreover, both switches benefit aesthetically from the translucency of polycarbonate, making them particularly well-suited for keyboard setups that utilize RGB lighting. As a result, users can expect a similar effect in terms of both sound and illumination when using either the Silent Yellow or the Sunset Gleam.

In contrast, the bottom housings of both switches are made from nylon, which offers a somewhat different auditory experience compared to polycarbonate. Nylon is recognized for its softer texture, which not only contributes to a fuller and deeper sound profile but also serves to absorb sound, resulting in a rounder and almost muted sound upon key actuation. While the top housing of each switch enhances the sound and light show during the release phase, the nylon bottom housing directly influences the felt sensations and sound at the point of bottoming out, affording users a distinct tactile feedback. Hence, when comparing the two switches, the nylon element ensures that although the top haptic experiences may mirror each other, each switch will have its unique auditory footprint based on the interaction of the bottom housing.

Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housings in both the Silent Yellow and Sunset Gleam means that users will experience a unique blend of audio characteristics. The crisper tonal quality from the polycarbonate and the fuller, rounder response from the nylon create a harmonious balance that enhances the overall typing experience. Despite their individual auditory signatures based on the top and bottom materials, users can feel confident that both switches—thanks to their shared construction materials—will provide satisfying tactile and auditory feedback, with the benefits of nylon and polycarbonate distinctly influencing the switch's performance.

Weight

When comparing the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, notable differences emerge in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Silent Yellow requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Sunset Gleam's lighter 42 grams. This means that users who prefer a bit more resistance when typing or gaming might lean towards the Silent Yellow for its more substantial feel. Furthermore, the bottom out force for the Silent Yellow stands at 60 grams, which is also heavier than the Sunset Gleam's 48 grams. Consequently, the Silent Yellow provides a more pronounced response throughout the keystroke, while the Sunset Gleam offers a gentler touch. Ultimately, those who favor a lighter tapping experience for prolonged use may find the Sunset Gleam more suitable, whereas users who appreciate a firmer push feel would likely prefer the Silent Yellow.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switch, we find that the Silent Yellow features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option between the two. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This difference in travel distance caters to varying user preferences: the Silent Yellow offers a more traditional feel with its depth, appealing to those who enjoy a more deliberate typing experience, while the Sunset Gleam, being shorter, may be favored by gamers and users who prioritize speed and rapid key presses. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on whether one prefers the responsiveness of the shorter travel distance or the more substantial tactile feedback of the longer one.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When considering the sound characteristics of the Outemu Silent Yellow and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switches, the Silent Yellow is known to be quieter in operation, focusing on providing a subtle typing experience. In contrast, the Sunset Gleam strikes a balance with a satisfying clack at the top-out, thanks to its unique material blend and excellent factory lubrication, which enhances the auditory feedback. Both switches, however, could potentially sound different depending on the keyboard configuration, including the type of board and keycaps used, which adds an additional layer of personalization to each typing experience.

In terms of feel, the Silent Yellow switch focuses on delivering a smooth, linear experience without any tactile bumps, allowing for uninterrupted keypresses. On the other hand, the Sunset Gleam also offers a linear feel but, due to its design and lube, enhances the tactile sensation at the top-out, making it more enjoyable for users who prefer some feedback during their typing. While both switches provide a linear feel, the Sunset Gleam's characteristics may cater more to those who appreciate a bit more tactile engagement.

In conclusion, while the Outemu Silent Yellow prioritizes a quieter typing experience with a smooth action, the HMX Sunset Gleam offers a blend of subtle sound and satisfying feedback, making it an appealing option for those who enjoy a little auditory and tactile gratification. Both switches bring their unique qualities to the table, and your choice will depend largely on personal preference for sound and feel, while sharing the common experience of linear switch operation.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the Outemu Silent Yellow and the HMX Sunset Gleam linear switches, your preferences and use cases will play a crucial role. If you favor a medium actuation force coupled with a quieter typing experience, the Silent Yellow is ideal for situations where noise reduction is a priority, such as in shared workspaces or during late-night gaming sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter typing feel with a satisfying top-out and a bit more auditory feedback—thanks to its signature clack—the Sunset Gleam switch is perfect for you, especially if you enjoy a more tactile and responsive typing experience. Ultimately, your choice should align with how you plan to use your keyboard: choose the Silent Yellow for a focused, muted environment, and reach for the Sunset Gleam for a lively typing experience that still offers smooth linear action.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Silent Yellow Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

HMX Sunset Gleam Linear

$3.50

$2.99 per 10

Learn more