KTT Phalaenopsis vs. Outemu Yellow Silver
An in-depth look at the KTT Phalaenopsis and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that are worth considering are the KTT Phalaenopsis and the Outemu Yellow Silver. The Phalaenopsis is a tactile switch that boasts a light actuation force of 37g, making typing effortless and minimizing finger fatigue even during prolonged typing sessions. With its 50g tactile force, it provides a satisfying and discernible tactile bump, ensuring each keystroke is a delightful experience. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver switch from Outemu is a linear switch known for its light actuation force and neutral sound profile, making it particularly favorable for gamers and typists who prioritize speediness and responsiveness. Both switches offer their own unique advantages and characteristics. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Phalaenopsis and the Outemu Yellow Silver have several similarities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for switches with RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through effectively. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics from both the Phalaenopsis and Yellow Silver switches due to their shared use of polycarbonate in the top housing.
However, the bottom housing materials of these switches differ. The Phalaenopsis features a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Yellow Silver utilizes nylon. The use of nylon results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to the stiffer polycarbonate. Consequently, the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch are more influenced by the bottom housing material.
In summary, the top housing materials of the KTT Phalaenopsis and the Outemu Yellow Silver are the same, utilizing polycarbonate to create a sharp and clear sound profile. However, their bottom housing materials differ, with the Phalaenopsis featuring polycarbonate and the Yellow Silver utilizing nylon. Consequently, the bottom-out sound and feel vary between the two switches, with the Yellow Silver eliciting a deeper and fuller sound due to the absorbing properties of nylon. Meanwhile, the impact on the sound when releasing a key is more influenced by the polycarbonate top housing in both switches.
Weight
The KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch have noticeable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Phalaenopsis has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Yellow Silver's 45 grams. This means that the Phalaenopsis requires less pressure to trigger a keystroke. Similarly, the Phalaenopsis has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams compared to the Yellow Silver's 55 grams, indicating that it requires less force to press the key all the way down.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience or need to type for extended periods, the Phalaenopsis would be a suitable choice. Its lower actuation and bottom out forces would provide a lighter touch and reduce fatigue during prolonged typing sessions. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver switch offers a slightly more substantial typing experience with its slightly heavier forces. This may be preferred by users who enjoy a stronger push feel and desire a more tactile feedback while typing.
While the actuation and bottom out forces of the Phalaenopsis and Yellow Silver switches differ, they both cater to individuals who prefer lighter forces compared to switches with heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Therefore, those looking for a similar typing feel can expect comparable results when using either of these switches.
Travel distance
The KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either switch, you will feel the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Both switches provide a consistent and satisfying tactile feedback, making them suitable options for those who prefer a certain level of key travel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
The Outemu Yellow Silver comes in at $3.40 per 10 switches.
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 Phalaenopsis switch offers a bassy profile, providing a deeper and richer sound during key presses. This switch produces a lower frequency range, resulting in a satisfying and resonant experience. Additionally, it has a thocky sound, creating a deep "thud" or soft "knock" when the key is pressed and released. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver switch has a neutral sound profile, offering a moderate sound that caters to a wide range of users. It is suitable for both beginners and advanced users, and can be used comfortably in various environments such as home or work. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps chosen.
When it comes to feel, the Phalaenopsis switch is described as having a stepped feel. This means that it provides a tactile feedback with two stages of keystrokes. It offers a mild tactile experience, allowing users to feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel while typing. On the other hand, there is no available information about the feel of the Yellow Silver switch.
To conclude, the Phalaenopsis switch offers a delightful typing experience with its light actuation force, satisfying tactile bump, bassy sound, and stepped feel. It minimizes finger fatigue even during prolonged usage. Though the sound and feel of the Yellow Silver switch are unknown, based on its light actuation force and neutral sound profile, it can be inferred that it provides a speedy and responsive typing experience similar to the Phalaenopsis switch. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on individual preference for sound and feel.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch that offers a light actuation force and a delightful typing experience, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch would be an excellent choice for you. With its 50-gram bottom out force, the Phalaenopsis provides a satisfying and discernible tactile bump, making each keystroke feel effortless and enjoyable. Additionally, the Phalaenopsis switch is known for its bassy and thocky sound profile, offering a deeper and richer sound during key presses. Furthermore, the Phalaenopsis is described as a stepped switch, providing a mild feel with some pre-travel and/or post-travel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a light actuation force and a neutral sound profile, the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch would be a great fit for you. With its 55-gram bottom out force, the Yellow Silver offers a speediness and responsiveness that is favored by gamers and typists. The neutral sound profile makes it suitable for various purposes and preferences, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, or if you plan to use the keyboard at home or work.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prioritize a tactile bump and a deeper sound, the Phalaenopsis would be the better option. However, if you value speed and responsiveness with a neutral sound, the Yellow Silver is the way to go. Consider your typing style and preferences to make an informed decision that suits you best.
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