Outemu Silent Yellow vs. Bsun Tomcat (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Yellow and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the Outemu Silent Yellow and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences among typists and gamers. The Silent Yellow is a linear switch celebrated for its smooth keystrokes, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize a quieter typing experience without tactile bumps. On the other hand, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) also presents a linear option but stands out with its Ly stems, which deliver an exceptionally smooth typing experience alongside a distinctive resonant sound profile. This makes the Tomcat (Heavy) ideal for users who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. Ultimately, both switches offer smooth linear action, but they differ in sound profiles and user experience. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
64g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
1.95 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
Ly
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
Extended spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Silent Yellow and Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) switches share key similarities in their construction, particularly with their top housing made from polycarbonate. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, which imparts a sharper, higher-pitched, and clearer sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to this resonance, making both switches suitable for users who appreciate a pronounced auditory feedback when typing or gaming. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate enhances compatibility with RGB lighting, allowing for vibrant illumination to shine through, ensuring that both switches not only perform well acoustically but also visually when customized with RGB setups.
Contrasting with their identical top housing materials, the differences emerge in their bottom housing. The Outemu Silent Yellow features a nylon bottom housing, which is known for its ability to produce a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. This quality dulls the sound somewhat, providing a more rounded auditory experience that some users may prefer, particularly for quieter environments or for those who appreciate a more subdued acoustic ambience. In comparison, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) also employs a nylon bottom housing, reinforcing the same acoustic characteristics and further emphasizing the synergy between sound profiles achieved through a combination of materials in both switches.
Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate in the top housing and nylon in the bottom housing yields similar acoustic results for both the Outemu Silent Yellow and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy). As such, users can expect a balanced and well-rounded auditory experience when typing or gaming with either switch, merging the sharper qualities of the polycarbonate with the deeper sound modulation provided by the nylon. The consistent use of these materials across both switches ensures that users will enjoy similar typing experiences, driving home the idea that auditory preferences can be met through either option depending on individual aesthetic or performance inclinations.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch to the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Silent Yellow requires a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, while the Tomcat (Heavy) necessitates a stronger actuation force of 55 grams. This means users who prefer a more effortless typing experience may find the Silent Yellow more appealing, particularly for prolonged use, such as at work or during extended gaming sessions. In terms of bottom out force, the Silent Yellow bottoms out at 60 grams, compared to the Tomcat (Heavy), which has a slightly higher bottom out force of 64 grams. Consequently, the Silent Yellow is the lighter option overall, whereas the Tomcat (Heavy) delivers a heftier feel, catering to those who favor a more substantial typing experience. These differences suggest that while both switches offer unique tactile experiences, the choice ultimately depends on personal preference for either a lighter or heavier key feel.
Travel distance
The Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch differ in their travel distances, with the Silent Yellow having a travel distance of 4 mm and the Tomcat (Heavy) measuring at 3.6 mm. This means that the Silent Yellow offers a longer travel distance, aligning with more traditional preferences for a deeper key press, which some users find satisfying and hearty. In contrast, the Tomcat (Heavy) encompasses a shorter travel distance, catering to gamers and users who favor quicker response times and a more rapid actuation. While those who prefer a deeper feel may gravitate towards the Silent Yellow, those looking for snappier responses would benefit from the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy). In summary, if responsiveness is a priority, the Tomcat (Heavy) is the advantageous choice, whereas the Silent Yellow provides a more pronounced key travel experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Silent Yellow comes in at $3.10, whereas the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) comes in at $2.99.
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
The Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch is a great option for those seeking a quieter typing experience, as it is designed to minimize sound during operation. In contrast, the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch is known for its resonant sound profile, which offers a distinctive auditory feedback that can be both engaging and satisfying for many users. However, the sound quality of both switches can vary significantly based on the keyboard they are paired with and the choice of keycaps, so it's important to consider your overall setup when evaluating these switches.
When it comes to feel, the Silent Yellow switch doesn't have specific characteristics outlined, which leaves its tactile response and overall typing experience somewhat unknown. On the other hand, the Tomcat (Heavy) is known for its Ly stems, which provide a super smooth typing experience. This smoothness can enhance the overall enjoyment while typing, making it a key feature for users who value a seamless keystroke without any noticeable interruptions.
In conclusion, the Outemu Silent Yellow excels in creating a quieter environment for typing, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize noise reduction. The Tomcat (Heavy), with its smooth feel and resonant sound profile, caters to users who enjoy a more dynamic auditory experience alongside a high-performance feel. Ultimately, your decision between these switches will depend on your specific preferences regarding sound and typing experience.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch and the Bsun Tomcat (Heavy) linear switch, your choice should be guided by your personal preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and application. If you prefer a linear switch with a more subdued auditory experience, the Silent Yellow at a bottom-out force of 60 grams offers a medium resistance that allows for comfortable typing with minimal noise, making it ideal for quiet environments like offices or shared spaces. On the other hand, if you are looking for a slightly heavier actuation with a bottom-out force of 64 grams, the Tomcat (Heavy) provides a more pronounced tactile response and features Ly stems that contribute to a super smooth typing experience, appealing to those who enjoy an audible and resonant sound profile. In this case, it may also cater to gamers who thrive on the tactile feedback during intense play sessions. Ultimately, if you desire a balance of comfort and quietness, the Silent Yellow is your best bet, while the Tomcat (Heavy) is perfect for those who appreciate a heavier feel and a richer soundscape.
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