Outemu Silent Yellow vs. Gateron Type S
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Yellow and the Gateron Type S switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing two popular mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Silent Yellow and the Gateron Type S, both linear switches with distinct characteristics. The Silent Yellow is known for its silent operation, making it ideal for those who work in quiet environments or share a space with others. On the other hand, the Type S stands out for its factory lubing techniques and 65g bottom-out force, providing a weightier keystroke experience with a pleasingly balanced sound profile. While the Silent Yellow offers a quieter typing experience, the Gateron Type S delivers a more tactile feel with its lubing techniques. 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
65g
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
18mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Silent Yellow and the Gateron Type S, it is clear that both switches feature nylon bottom housings, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softness and sound absorption properties. This similarity suggests that users can expect a comparable typing experience in terms of the sound produced when pressing down on the keys. However, where the switches differ is in their top housing materials. The Silent Yellow utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, while the Type S features a nylon top housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound. This contrast highlights the impact that the top housing material can have on the overall sound experience of a switch.
Another point of comparison between the two switches is the aesthetic aspect of their housing materials. The polycarbonate top housing of the Silent Yellow allows for translucency, making it ideal for use with RGB lighting to create a visually appealing keyboard setup. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Type S may not offer the same level of translucency, resulting in a different visual appearance for users who prioritize RGB lighting effects. This aesthetic difference demonstrates how the choice of housing material can influence the overall design and customization options available to users.
When considering how the different housing materials impact the sound produced by the switches, it is important to recognize that these qualities will be divided between the top and bottom housings of each switch. The bottom housing will have a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will affect the sound when releasing a key. This division of qualities between the top and bottom housings underscores the importance of selecting housing materials that complement each other to achieve the desired sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Silent Yellow has a heavier actuation force of 65 grams compared to the Type S's lighter 55 grams. Similarly, the bottom out force of the Silent Yellow is heavier at 80 grams, while the Type S has a lower bottom out force of 65 grams. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Type S switch, as its lighter actuation and bottom out forces allow for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, the heavier forces of the Silent Yellow provide a more substantial typing feel for users who prefer a stronger push. In conclusion, the actuation and bottom out forces of the switches ultimately determine the typing experience, with the Silent Yellow being heavier and the Type S being lighter in comparison.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of key press feedback and overall typing experience with both switches. The similarity in travel distance indicates that both switches offer a consistent actuation point and feel when typing. Overall, whether you choose the Outemu Silent Yellow or Gateron Type S linear switch, you can expect a smooth and consistent typing experience with a travel distance of 4 mm.
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 S 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron Type S offers a more specialized experience with its neutral yet deeper acoustic profile, providing a pleasing balance for those who prefer a slightly subdued sound signature. In contrast, the sound of the Outemu Silent Yellow remains unknown, making it difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect. It's important to consider that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, detailed information about the tactile experience of both switches is not provided. However, based on general knowledge of linear switches, the Outemu Silent Yellow is likely to offer a smooth and consistent keystroke with no tactile bump, while the Gateron Type S may provide a slightly heavier bottom-out feel with a 65g actuation force. The feel of a switch is a crucial factor in determining user preference and comfort during extended typing sessions.
Overall, while the sound characteristics of the two switches differ, with the Gateron Type S offering a specialized and subdued sound profile, the feel of both switches is likely to provide a smooth linear typing experience. If you are looking for a quiet and tactile switch, the Gateron Type S may be the ideal choice. However, if a quieter sound is not a priority and you prefer a lighter actuation force, the Outemu Silent Yellow can also provide a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch and the Gateron Type S linear switch, you should opt for the Silent Yellow if you prefer a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams and are not particularly concerned about sound. On the other hand, the Gateron Type S with its 65-gram bottom out force would be more suitable if you prefer a medium-heavy keystroke and value a subtle yet pleasing sound profile. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for weight and sound when it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch for your typing needs.
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