Outemu Silent Yellow vs. Gateron Type L
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Yellow and the Gateron Type L switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Silent Yellow and Gateron Type L both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Silent Yellow is a linear switch known for its silent operation, making it ideal for quiet office environments or late-night typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L is part of Sillyworks' innovative "Project Rehash" and is celebrated for its light actuation force and deep sound signature. While the Silent Yellow is categorized as a neutral switch, the Type L falls into the categories of subdued, feathery, and easy-to-press. Both switches have their own merits and reasons why you may want to choose them; 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
38g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
pom
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Silent Yellow and Gateron Type L switches both feature nylon bottom housings, which elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics. This similarity means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound when using either of these switches. However, the Silent Yellow stands out with its polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile compared to the Type L's nylon top housing. The polycarbonate housing is also translucent, making it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting for a more visually appealing setup.
On the other hand, the Gateron Type L's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, contrasting with the crisper sound produced by the Silent Yellow's polycarbonate top housing. While the Silent Yellow's top housing focuses on creating a clear and resonant sound, the nylon top housing of the Type L absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. The difference in top housing material highlights how the choice of material can significantly impact the sound produced by a switch, catering to different preferences for typing sound and feel.
When it comes to the overall typing experience, the bottom and top housings of a switch play a significant role in the sound and feel of each key press. With the Silent Yellow and Type L both featuring nylon bottom housings, users can expect a deeper and fuller sound profile that is common to switches using this material. However, the choice of different top housing materials - polycarbonate for the Silent Yellow and nylon for the Type L - results in distinct sound profiles, with the polycarbonate housing offering a crisper sound compared to the Type L's duller and rounder sound. Ultimately, the housing materials of a switch can greatly influence the overall typing experience, providing users with various options to suit their preferences.
Weight
The Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch have distinct differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Silent Yellow 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 Type L is lighter, with an actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams. This makes it ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch while typing. Those who like it lighter may lean towards the Type L, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. However, for users who enjoy a stronger push feel, the Silent Yellow would be the better choice. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch both have a travel distance of 4mm, meaning that they offer a similar key press experience in terms of how far the switch travels from top to bottom. This consistency in travel distance ensures that users can expect comparable results when typing on either of these switches. The fact that both switches have the same travel distance highlights their similarity in key press feel, making them suitable choices for those who prefer a consistent typing 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 Gateron Type L comes in at $4.70.
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, perfect for those looking for a non-disruptive typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Type L switch offers a more subdued sound profile, providing a softer and more subtle typing experience. Both switches aim to reduce noise, but the Type L may have a slight edge in creating a quieter environment due to its dampened sound when pressed.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Silent Yellow switch's tactile feedback is not specified, while the Gateron Type L switch is known for its feathery and easy-to-press feel. The Type L switch is designed to be exceptionally light to press, reducing finger fatigue and strain during extended typing sessions. The easy-to-press nature of the Type L enhances the typing experience by offering a responsive and low-impact feel, making it comfortable for various uses such as gaming, school, or work.
Overall, both the Outemu Silent Yellow and Gateron Type L switches provide excellent options for those seeking a quieter typing experience. While the Silent Yellow may offer a quieter operation, the Type L excels in providing a feather-light and easy-to-press feel, making it ideal for users who prioritize comfort during long typing sessions. Choosing between the two switches will ultimately depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, but rest assured that both switches will deliver satisfactory results in terms of reducing noise and providing a comfortable typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch or the Gateron Type L linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and usage. If you prefer a heavier bottom out force and are looking for a switch with a quieter sound profile, the Silent Yellow may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and are looking for a switch with a more subdued sound, the Gateron Type L may be the more suitable choice. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences and needs, so it's important to consider what factors are most important to you when making your decision.
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