Outemu Silent Yellow vs. Gazzew U4
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Yellow and the Gazzew U4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch to the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, it's clear that they offer distinct typing experiences. The Silent Yellow is known for its smooth and quiet keystrokes, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, the U4 is celebrated for its sharp tactile bump and plush bottom-out sensation, providing a more engaging typing feel. While the Silent Yellow offers a linear typing experience, the U4's tactile feedback adds a layer of precision and satisfaction to each keystroke. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Silent Yellow and Gazzew U4 differ in their housing materials, with the Silent Yellow using polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing, while the U4 utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend for both top and bottom housings. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to its stiffness, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Gazzew blend in the U4's housings produces a rich and deep sound profile, thanks to its softness. Both materials offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences.
In terms of sound characteristics, the Silent Yellow's polycarbonate top housing creates a crisp and resonant sound, while the nylon bottom housing adds a deeper and fuller sound quality. This combination results in a switch that offers a balance between sharpness and depth in sound. In comparison, the Gazzew blend used in both the top and bottom housings of the U4 provides a consistent rich and deep sound profile throughout typing. This makes the U4 ideal for those who prefer a more uniform sound experience across all keys.
Despite their differences in housing materials, both the Outemu Silent Yellow and Gazzew U4 switches excel in delivering a satisfying typing experience. The split between top and bottom housing materials allows for a combination of sharpness and depth in sound for the Silent Yellow, while the consistent Gazzew blend in the U4 provides a rich and deep sound profile throughout. Whether you prefer the sharpness of polycarbonate or the richness of the Gazzew blend, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to a variety of typing preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, it is clear that the Silent Yellow is the heavier option while the U4 is lighter. The Silent Yellow has a higher actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the U4 has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming. Both switches offer unique advantages based on their weight, with the Silent Yellow catering to those who prefer a heavier feel, while the U4 is better suited for those who desire a lighter typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gazzew U4 tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the U4 the shorter option compared to the Silent Yellow. In terms of keyboard typing experience, the shorter travel distance of the U4 may appeal to those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Silent Yellow may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial key press feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of key press depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Outemu Silent Yellow comes in at $3.10, whereas the Gazzew U4 comes in at $6.50.
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 linear switch is commonly known for its quiet operation and lack of audible click or tactile bump. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is recognized for its muted sound profile, producing a softer and quieter typing experience compared to traditional mechanical switches. The U4 switch also offers a low-pitched tone, adding a bass-heavy and mellow sound to each keystroke. Ultimately, the sound of a switch can be influenced by various factors including the keyboard's construction and keycap material.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Silent Yellow switch does not have a specific tactile description provided, indicating a lack of pronounced tactile feedback. In contrast, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is characterized by a sharp tactile bump, offering a high level of feedback intensity with each key press. This sharp and crisp tactile bump provides a distinct sensation that can enhance the typing experience for users who prefer tactile feedback.
Considering the information provided, the Outemu Silent Yellow switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Silent Yellow switch provides a quiet and linear typing experience, while the U4 switch delivers a muted sound profile and sharp tactile feedback. Depending on individual preferences, users can select the switch that best suits their desired typing experience. In both cases, a quiet operation can be expected, with the U4 switch offering an added tactile element for those seeking enhanced feedback during typing.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a heavier bottom out force, the Silent Yellow with 80 grams may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom out force, the U4 with 62 grams may be more suitable. Additionally, if you value a silent typing experience, the U4 with its muted and low-pitched sound profile may be more appealing to you. Conversely, if you enjoy a sharp tactile feedback, the U4 with its sharp tactile bump may be the switch for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and bottom out force.
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