Outemu Silent Yellow vs. Gazzew U4T
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Yellow and the Gazzew U4T switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Silent Yellow and the Gazzew U4T offer different experiences for users. The Silent Yellow is a linear switch, known for its silent keystrokes and smooth actuation. On the other hand, the U4T is a tactile switch that delivers a tactile bump during keystrokes, along with a bassy 'thock' sound profile. If you're looking for a keyboard switch that provides a quiet typing experience, the Silent Yellow may be the way to go. However, if you prefer a switch with a satisfying tactile feedback and distinct sound profile, the Gazzew U4T might be more up your alley. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
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 17.5mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Silent Yellow and Gazzew U4T switches both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The Silent Yellow features a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper and crisper sound profile thanks to its stiffness. On the other hand, the U4T uses a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, known for delivering a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. While the Silent Yellow's polycarbonate housing provides a more resonant sound, the U4T's Gazzew blend offers a deeper and fuller tone.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Outemu Silent Yellow uses a nylon material which leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the Gazzew U4T employs its proprietary Gazzew blend material for the bottom housing, contributing to a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. Both switches prioritize sound quality, with the Silent Yellow offering a deeper sound due to nylon and the U4T delivering a rich tone thanks to its unique blend of materials.
Overall, the housing materials of the Outemu Silent Yellow and Gazzew U4T switches play a significant role in shaping their sound profiles. While the Silent Yellow's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, the U4T's Gazzew blend top housing offers a rich and deep tone. Similarly, both switches utilize soft materials for their bottom housings, with the nylon in the Silent Yellow and the Gazzew blend in the U4T contributing to a fuller sound profile. Despite their differences, both switches prioritize sound quality and cater to enthusiasts looking for a unique typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, it is clear that the Silent Yellow requires a heavier force for both actuation and bottom out compared to the U4T. The Silent Yellow has an actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, making it a heavier option overall. In contrast, the U4T has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 65 grams, which is still on the medium-heavy side. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the U4T, as it requires less force for both actuation and bottom out. On the other hand, individuals looking for a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Silent Yellow due to its heavier forces. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing comfort and typing style.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance ensures that the typing experience with both switches will be consistent and provide similar results in terms of key feel and responsiveness. In conclusion, both switches offer a comfortable and satisfying typing experience with a travel distance that is neither shorter nor longer than the other.
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 U4T 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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Silent Yellow switches have been praised for their quiet operation and lack of audible clicks, making them ideal for those who prefer a more subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T switches are known for their bassy 'thock' sound profile, providing a deeper and richer sound during key presses. The U4T switches also offer a satisfying tactile feedback, adding an extra layer of auditory pleasure to every keystroke.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Silent Yellow switches do not have a specific descriptor provided, but are generally considered to be smooth and linear, lacking the tactile bump present in some other switches. In contrast, the Gazzew U4T switches are described as having a sharp tactile feedback, with a strong and crisp bump that is distinctly felt with each keypress. This tactile element adds a satisfying physical sensation to typing that some users greatly appreciate.
Overall, for those looking for a quiet and smooth typing experience, the Outemu Silent Yellow switches would be a good choice. However, if you prefer a more audible and tactile typing experience with a bassy 'thock' sound profile, the Gazzew U4T switches would be a great option. Both switches offer different qualities that cater to individual preferences, so selecting the right one ultimately depends on your personal typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, you should consider the bottom out force, sound profile, and tactile feedback. If you prefer a heavier switch with a silent operation, the Silent Yellow may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-heavy switch with a bassy 'thock' sound profile and a sharp tactile feedback, the U4T may be more suitable for your typing preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preferences in terms of typing experience and sound profile. Happy typing!
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