Kailh Sage vs. Outemu Yellow Silver

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are numerous options available, each with its own unique characteristics. Two switches that stand out are the Kailh Sage, a clicky switch, and the Outemu Yellow Silver, a linear switch. The Kailh Sage switches are best known for their distinct clicky typing experience, offering a heavy weight and refreshingly sharp clickiness. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver switches, produced by a reputable switch manufacturer, are favored for their light actuation force and neutral sound profile, making them ideal for gamers and typists who prefer speediness and responsiveness. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision regarding which switch suits your specific needs.

By the numbers

Kailh Sage Clicky

Outemu Yellow Silver Linear

$6.25 per 10

$3.40 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Kailh Sage and the Outemu Yellow Silver both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing material. This shared characteristic means that users can expect a similar result in terms of sound profile. Polycarbonate's relatively stiffer plastic composition contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is particularly advantageous for those planning to use RGB lighting, as it allows for vibrant and eye-catching effects. Therefore, whether opting for the Sage or the Yellow Silver, the top housing's polycarbonate material ensures a clear and resonant sound, as well as compatibility with RGB lighting.

Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Kailh Sage and the Outemu Yellow Silver employ nylon. This classic switch housing material imparts a distinct sound profile, characterized by a deeper and fuller tone. Nylon's relatively softer plastic composition absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. As a result, typing on switches utilizing nylon in the bottom housing provides a satisfying and rich auditory experience. Whether it is the Sage or the Yellow Silver, the nylon bottom housing guarantees a deeper and fuller sound profile that enhances the overall typing experience.

When comparing the top and bottom housings of the Kailh Sage and the Outemu Yellow Silver, it becomes apparent that their differences lie in which part of the switch's operation they predominantly impact. The bottom housing plays a more significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down. On the other hand, the top housing exerts a greater influence on the sound produced when letting go of a key. While the specific material used may vary between switches, understanding these distinctions allows users to discern how the unique qualities that each housing material brings to the switch are distributed and experienced during typing.

Weight

When comparing the Kailh Sage clicky switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, there are noticeable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The actuation force of the Sage is unavailable in grams, while the Yellow Silver requires 45 grams to trigger a keystroke. This means that the Yellow Silver is lighter in terms of actuation force, allowing for a smoother and potentially faster typing experience. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Sage requires a heavier force of 70 grams compared to the Yellow Silver's 55 grams. This makes the Sage switch more resistant and suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel during typing. Overall, the Sage switch offers a heavier actuation force and bottom out force than the Yellow Silver, providing a more substantial typing experience. However, if one prefers a lighter switch for prolonged typing sessions, they may opt for the Yellow Silver, as its actuation force is lighter and allows for smoother typing.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Sage clicky switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, it is clear that there is a difference in their distances. The Sage has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Yellow Silver has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Sage falls into the category of shorter travel distances, which is favored by gamers seeking faster response times. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver provides a slightly more substantial depth for those who prefer a more hearty feel when pressing down on a key. While both options offer their own advantages, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the level of responsiveness you seek in your typing or gaming experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Kailh Sage switch is best known for its distinct clicky typing experience, offering a heavy weight and refreshingly sharp clickiness. The sound of the Sage switch can be described as crunchy, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver switch is favored by gamers and typists who prefer a speediness and responsiveness. It features a light actuation force and a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes. The sound of the Yellow Silver switch is described as neutral, with a moderate actuation force requirement. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Kailh Sage switch offers an invigorating and sharp experience. It provides pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel, resulting in an immersive typing sensation. The sharp tactile bump of the Sage switch is distinctive with each keypress. On the other hand, information about the feel of the Outemu Yellow Silver switch is unknown.

Taking all the available information into consideration, the Kailh Sage clicky switch is known for its heavy weight, sharp clickiness, and invigorating feel. It offers a distinct clicky typing experience and a snappy and reactive feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch has a reputation for its light actuation force and neutral sound profile, making it favorable for gamers and typists who prefer speediness and responsiveness. While the sound of the Sage switch is described as crunchy, and the Yellow Silver switch as neutral, it's important to remember that the sound of a switch can be influenced by other factors. Overall, both switches offer unique qualities and can provide a satisfying typing experience, depending on individual preferences.

Conclusion

In closing, if you are looking for a clicky typing experience with a heavy weight and sharp clickiness, the Kailh Sage switch would be a great choice for you. The Sage switch offers an invigorating and sharp tactile feel, providing a satisfying and immersive typing sensation. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force and a more neutral sound profile, the Outemu Yellow Silver switch would be a better option. The Yellow Silver switch is known for its speediness and responsiveness, making it favorable for gamers and typists who prioritize a quick and efficient typing experience. Overall, the decision between these two switches ultimately boils down to personal preference and specific typing needs.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh Sage Clicky

$6.25 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Yellow Silver Linear

$3.40 per 10

Learn more