Outemu Silent Yellow vs. Bsun Tomcat

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboards, switch selection can greatly influence typing experience, and two popular options are the Outemu Silent Yellow and the Bsun Tomcat, both of which are linear switches. The Silent Yellow is designed for those who prefer a quieter typing experience, making it ideal for shared workspaces or late-night gaming sessions, where noise can be a concern. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat is celebrated for its Ly stems, which offer a remarkably smooth keystroke, providing a satisfying feel for typists and gamers alike while producing a resonant sound profile that adds a unique auditory element. While each switch has its distinct advantages—be it the Silent Yellow's noise-dampening qualities or the Tomcat's silky smoothness—understanding the nuances of each will help you make an informed choice. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Outemu Silent Yellow Linear

Bsun Tomcat Linear

$3.10 per 10

$2.99 per 10

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Housing materials

The Outemu Silent Yellow and Bsun Tomcat switches share a notable similarity in their housing materials, utilizing polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing. This commonality is significant because it influences the overall sound profile of the switches in similar ways. Polycarbonate, a stiffer plastic, contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, regardless of the specific switch. Given that both switches feature translucent polycarbonate in their top housings, users can expect a clear and resonant sound profile. This characteristic is especially beneficial for those who use RGB lighting in their keyboards, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows for vibrant lighting effects that enhance the aesthetic appeal of both switches.

When examining the bottom housing, both the Silent Yellow and Tomcat utilize nylon, which adds a contrasting depth to the typing experience. Nylon is recognized for its sound-absorbing qualities, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. This material effectively softens the overall acoustics when typing, leading to a more muted and rounded sound that complements the sharper tones produced by the polycarbonate top housing. Thus, both switches harmonize the effects of their respective materials, creating a balanced auditory experience that takes advantage of the strengths of each housing type.

The interaction between the top and bottom housings in these switches highlights how different materials influence key feel and sound. The nylon bottom housing primarily affects the bottom-out sound and tactile feedback when the key is pressed down, while the polycarbonate top housing accentuates the sound when the key is released. Since both switches employ the same materials, users can anticipate similar auditory and tactile results, despite potential differences in switch design or construction. This alignment ensures that both the Outemu Silent Yellow and Bsun Tomcat offer a consistent and enjoyable typing experience characterized by their harmonious sound profiles and enhanced aesthetic features.

Weight

When comparing the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, both switches share the same actuation force of 45 grams, indicating that they will provide a similar force requirement for triggering keystrokes. However, their bottom out forces differ: the Silent Yellow requires 60 grams to fully depress, while the Tomcat bottoms out at 54 grams. This means that the Silent Yellow is slightly heavier than the Tomcat, which may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Tomcat's lighter bottom out force makes it a better option for those who favor a gentler touch, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. Overall, while the actuation forces align, the Silent Yellow's heavier bottom out force differentiates it from the lighter-feeling Tomcat.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, a notable difference emerges. The Silent Yellow features a travel distance of 4 mm, which aligns with the traditional preference for a more substantial depth when pressing keys. In contrast, the Tomcat offers a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, catering to the modern trend of faster response times favored by gamers. This means that if responsiveness is your priority, the Tomcat could be the ideal choice due to its shorter travel distance, while the Silent Yellow may be more suitable for those who appreciate a deeper, more deliberate keypress. Overall, the Silent Yellow has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Tomcat's 3.6 mm, making it the preferred option for users seeking more tactile feedback.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch does not have a prominent characteristic that stands out in descriptions; however, it's important to recognize that its name implies a focus on quiet operation, making it a favorable choice for those who prioritize stealthiness in their typing experience. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat linear switch is noted for producing a resonant sound profile while typing, which can add a unique auditory dimension to the typing experience. It’s essential to consider that the overall sound is influenced by other factors such as the keyboard frame and keycap materials, which may affect how each switch sounds in practice.

In terms of feel, the Silent Yellow switch does not have specific notable qualities mentioned, leaving its tactile response somewhat ambiguous. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat linear switch is recognized for its Ly stems, contributing to a super smooth typing experience. This smoothness can create a more satisfying and fluid keystroke, which is a significant factor for users seeking responsiveness and consistency in their typing or gaming experiences.

In summary, while the Outemu Silent Yellow switch emphasizes quietness, the Bsun Tomcat provides a smoother and more resonant feeling and sound experience. If you are aiming for a quieter environment and potentially similar smoothness, the Silent Yellow may meet your needs; however, if you appreciate a more pronounced auditory feedback alongside a smooth keystroke, the Tomcat would be the better option. Ultimately, the choice will depend on your personal preferences regarding sound and feel.

Conclusion

To conclude, when selecting between the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat linear switch, your individual preferences and use cases should guide your decision. If you value a slightly heavier switch with a bottom-out force of 60 grams for a more deliberate typing experience, then the Silent Yellow may be perfect for you, especially if your keyboard use involves a mix of gaming and typing where you prefer to minimize noise without sacrificing tactile feedback. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smoother typing experience alongside a lighter actuation force of 54 grams, the Bsun Tomcat switch would be ideal, particularly for extended typing sessions where comfort plays a crucial role. The Tomcat's resonance and smoothness may provide a more pleasant experience for those who type frequently, while the Silent Yellow's medium force and focus on reduced sound are advantageous in more noise-sensitive environments. Ultimately, consider where and how you'll use your keyboard, as this will help clarify which switch aligns best with your personal typing style.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Silent Yellow Linear

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

Bsun Tomcat Linear

$2.99 per 10

Learn more