Durock Sea Glass vs. Outemu Yellow Silver
An in-depth look at the Durock Sea Glass and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two options that stand out are the Durock Sea Glass and the Outemu Yellow Silver. The Sea Glass switches are praised for their captivating pastel colors and unique typing experience, characterized by a distinct dryness, wispiness, and airiness. Despite their 62g bottom-out force, these switches remain weightless and smooth, challenging expectations. Additionally, they produce a uniquely hollow sound. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver switches from Outemu are known for their light actuation force and neutral sound profile, making them ideal for gamers and typists seeking speediness and responsiveness. While both switches have their strengths, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can make an informed decision on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
P3+
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Sea Glass and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. The Sea Glass's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing provides a unique sound profile that is not particularly sharp, but leans towards a brighter tone. This blend creates a pleasant and balanced sound experience. In contrast, the Yellow Silver's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound profile. The use of polycarbonate, known for its stiffness, results in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it perfect for showcasing RGB lighting effects. Overall, while the Sea Glass and the Yellow Silver differ in their top housing materials, both can deliver pleasing sound profiles with distinct characteristics.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the Sea Glass utilizes a Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend. Similar to its top housing, this blend results in a sound profile that is not particularly sharp but leans towards a brighter side. This creates a consistent auditory experience throughout the switch. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon, known as a classic switch housing material, offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that can be satisfying for typists. Thus, the bottom housing of each switch contributes different sound characteristics, allowing users to choose based on their preference for a brighter or deeper sound.
When both top and bottom housings are different for a switch, their qualities are divided between the bottom-out sound and feel, as well as the sound when releasing a key. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, as it is the part that directly interacts with the keypress. Thus, the blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE in the Sea Glass provides a unique tactile experience, offering a bright yet smooth bottom-out sound. Conversely, the top housing, responsible for the sound when releasing a key, has a greater influence on the sound profile. The polycarbonate top housing of the Yellow Silver produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound when the key is released, emphasizing the audible feedback during key releases. Overall, whether using the Sea Glass or the Yellow Silver switches, users can expect a comprehensive sound experience that is influenced by both the top and bottom housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Sea Glass linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. Both switches have an actuation force of 45 grams, meaning that the force required to trigger a keystroke is the same for both switches. This ensures a consistent typing experience in terms of initial key activation.
However, when it comes to bottom out force, there is a distinction between the two switches. The Durock Sea Glass has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is slightly heavier compared to the Outemu Yellow Silver with a bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that when pressing the keys all the way down, the Sea Glass switch will require a slightly greater amount of force.
The weight of a switch is an important consideration for individuals who prefer a specific typing experience. For those who desire a lighter feel, the Outemu Yellow Silver would be a suitable option, as it allows for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Durock Sea Glass, as its slightly heavier bottom out force can provide a stronger push feel.
In summary, while the actuation force remains the same for both switches, the Durock Sea Glass offers a heavier bottom out force compared to the Outemu Yellow Silver. This difference in weight allows users to choose their preferred typing experience based on their personal preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Sea Glass linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, it is evident that the Sea Glass has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Yellow Silver has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Yellow Silver being more traditional. However, it is important to note that shorter travel distances have become increasingly popular, particularly among gamers seeking faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, the Sea Glass with its shorter travel distance may be the better choice. On the other hand, some individuals find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt and prefer a switch with more depth. In this case, the Yellow Silver with its longer travel distance would be the preferred option. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on individual preferences and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Sea Glass has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sea Glass for $4.87.
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 Sea Glass linear switch offers a uniquely hollow sound signature. This means that when typing on these switches, you can expect a distinct dryness, wispiness, and airiness in the sound produced. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch is described as neutral. This means that it has a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for most purposes. However, it is worth noting that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard's design and the choice of keycaps. So, while the Sea Glass switch offers a specific sound signature, the Yellow Silver switch will provide a more versatile option that can be adjusted based on your preferences.
Moving on to feel, the Sea Glass linear switch offers a combination of frictionless, mild, and feathery qualities. These switches provide an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction when pressing the keys. The Sea Glass switch also offers a gentle typing experience with qualities that stand in a safe, middle-ground zone. Additionally, the feathery nature of these switches means they are exceptionally light to press, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions.
On the other hand, the feel of the Outemu Yellow Silver switch is unknown based on the provided information. However, based on the description of the Yellow Silver switch as having a light actuation force, we can infer that it will offer an easy-to-press experience. These switches will provide gentle resistance during key presses, requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions.
In conclusion, the Durock Sea Glass linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Sea Glass switch provides a distinct hollow sound signature and a frictionless, mild, and feathery typing experience. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver switch has a neutral sound profile (based on available information), and it offers an easy-to-press experience with a light actuation force. Both switches have their own unique characteristics, so choosing between them depends on personal preferences and the specific typing experience desired. However, if you prefer a similar lightweight and smooth typing experience, the Yellow Silver switch can provide comparable results.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a unique and captivating switch with a distinct dryness and airiness in its typing experience, as well as a weightlessness that defies expectations, the Durock Sea Glass linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. The Sea Glass switches also offer a uniquely hollow sound signature, adding to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, if you prioritize a light actuation force and a neutral sound profile, particularly for gaming and typing with speed and responsiveness, the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch would be a great fit. Ultimately, it comes down to your individual preferences and requirements. Whether you are prioritizing a distinct typing experience or a light and responsive feel, both switches have their merits and can enhance your overall typing experience. Therefore, choose the switch that aligns with your specific needs and preferences for a satisfying and enjoyable mechanical keyboard experience.
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