Kailh Plum vs. Outemu Yellow Silver
An in-depth look at the Kailh Plum 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 to consider are the Kailh Plum and the Outemu Yellow Silver. The Kailh Plum switch is best known for its unique combination of heftiness and a relatively subtle tactile bump. Unlike many other tactile switches, the Plum doesn't have a significant weightiness to it, making it stand out in the market. Additionally, the Plum switch offers a neutral and enjoyable sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver switch, produced by a consistently reliable brand, is favored by gamers and typists looking for speed and responsiveness. With a light actuation force and a neutral sound profile, the Yellow Silver switch caters to those who prioritize quick and precise key presses. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision when choosing the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Kailh Plum and the Outemu Yellow Silver both feature polycarbonate top housings, which bring about similar results in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. The use of polycarbonate in both switches creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiff plastic, allowing for a more clear and resonant sound experience. The translucency of polycarbonate is particularly advantageous for those planning to use RGB lighting, as it enhances the visual appeal of the switch. Therefore, users of both the Plum and the Yellow Silver can expect a similar sound quality and visually appealing switch if they opt for the polycarbonate top housing.
On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing sets these two switches apart. The Plum's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is because nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the Yellow Silver's nylon bottom housing also contributes to a deeper and fuller sound. With the bottom housing having a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, users can expect a distinct typing experience when using either the Plum or the Yellow Silver due to their nylon bottom housings.
When it comes to the overall typing experience, the differences in top and bottom housings become crucial. The qualities brought by each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. Pressing down on the switch allows users to feel the impact of the bottom housing, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, when releasing a key, the top housing takes center stage, impacting the sound produced. Therefore, while both the Plum and the Yellow Silver share similar characteristics in their polycarbonate top housing, their nylon bottom housings create unique typing experiences, making them stand apart from each other.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Plum tactile switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, there are some noticeable differences. The actuation force of the Plum switch is unavailable, making it difficult to compare directly. However, the Yellow Silver switch has a lower actuation force of 45 grams, making it lighter in this aspect. The Plum switch, on the other hand, has a bottom out force of 70 grams, which is medium-heavy. In contrast, the Yellow Silver switch has a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams, classifying it as medium-light.
Considering the weight of a switch is essential for various reasons. For those who prefer lighter switches, it allows them to type for longer periods without fatigue, making it ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. Conversely, some individuals prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, opting for switches with heavier forces.
In this case, the Yellow Silver switch would be considered lighter due to its lower actuation force and bottom out force when compared to the Plum switch. However, since the actuation force of the Plum switch is not provided, it is challenging to determine if the actuation forces of both switches are similar. Nevertheless, based on the provided information, individuals seeking a lighter switch may lean towards the Yellow Silver, while those desiring a heavier switch may be more inclined to choose the Plum switch.
Travel distance
The Kailh Plum tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Plum switch falls on the shorter end of the spectrum, offering a more responsive experience favored by gamers seeking faster response times. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver switch has a slightly longer travel distance, providing a more hearty depth that some individuals may prefer. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25, whereas the Outemu Yellow Silver comes in at $3.40.
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, both the Kailh Plum tactile switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch have a neutral sound profile. This means that they produce a moderate sound during typing or gaming, making them suitable for most purposes. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. So, while the sound profile of these switches is neutral, the overall sound experience may vary depending on the setup.
When it comes to feel, the Kailh Plum tactile switch is described as mild and stepped. This means that it offers a gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The Plum switch has a unique feature of not having a huge tactile bump, which sets it apart from many other tactile switches. Despite its weightiness, the tactility is more subtle. Additionally, the Plum switch has a stepped feel, meaning that it has two stages in its keystroke. This includes a pre-travel and/or post-travel sensation. On the other hand, there is no specific information available regarding the feel of the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch.
Taking all the available information into consideration, the Kailh Plum tactile switch and Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch share some similarities. Both switches have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various users and purposes. However, the Plum switch offers a more unique and mild tactile experience with its weightiness and stepped feel, while there is no specific information available about the feel of the Yellow Silver switch. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the specific preferences and requirements of the individual user.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a unique feel, the Kailh Plum switch would be a great choice. Despite its weightiness, it doesn't feature a huge tactile bump, setting it apart from many other tactile switches. The Plum also has a neutral sound profile, making it enjoyable for typing or gaming. On the other hand, if you prefer a light actuation force and a more speedy and responsive experience, the Outemu Yellow Silver switch would be a better fit. It has a medium-light bottom out force and a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users, whether you plan to use it at home or work. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your personal preferences and the type of typing experience you are looking for.
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