Jwick Semi-Silent Linear vs. Outemu Yellow Silver
An in-depth look at the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Outemu Yellow Silver are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct qualities for different preferences. The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear is renowned for its innovative design, providing users with a nearly silent topping-out sound while still maintaining a satisfying bottom-out clack. With its silky smooth type feel and a range of categorized options such as subdued, mild, and polished, it offers versatility to suit various typing preferences. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver is crafted by a manufacturer known for producing exceptional switches. This particular switch stands out with its light actuation force and neutral sound profile, making it ideal for gamers and typists seeking speediness and responsiveness. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, making it essential to delve deeper into their intricacies to determine the best fit for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Outemu Yellow Silver both utilize polycarbonate as their top housing material. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal material for achieving desired acoustics. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the effective use of RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches.
In terms of their bottom housing material, both switches feature nylon. This classic housing material brings about a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon's relatively softer plastic composition absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The bottom housing, being responsible for the bottom-out sound and feel, heavily influences the overall typing experience of the switches.
While the housing materials for the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Outemu Yellow Silver remain the same, with both switches utilizing polycarbonate for the top housing and nylon for the bottom housing, it is safe to say that they will deliver similar results in terms of sound profile and typing experience. The usage of polycarbonate ensures a sharper and resonant sound when pressing and releasing the keys, while the nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound during typing. These similarities indicate that users can expect comparable acoustic performances when using either switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, there are some notable differences. The Semi-Silent Linear switch has an actuation force that is unknown, while the Yellow Silver switch has an actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the Yellow Silver switch requires a slightly lighter touch to trigger a keystroke compared to the Semi-Silent Linear switch.
In terms of bottom out force, the Semi-Silent Linear switch has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is medium in terms of heaviness. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver switch has a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it slightly lighter than the Semi-Silent Linear switch.
Considering weight is important for different individuals and their preferences. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Yellow Silver switch, as it requires a lighter actuation force and has a lower bottom out force. This can be beneficial for longer typing periods, making it suitable for work or extended gaming sessions.
However, for those who seek a more substantial and tactile typing experience, the Semi-Silent Linear switch might be the better option. Its higher bottom out force provides a stronger push feel, resulting in a more satisfying keystroke.
Overall, while the actuation and bottom out forces differ slightly between the two switches, both the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and Outemu Yellow Silver switches fall within the medium range of heaviness. Depending on one's specific preferences for lighter or heavier typing experiences, either switch can provide similar results, but with slight variations in force requirements.
Travel distance
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch have contrasting travel distances. The Semi-Silent Linear has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, which is shorter compared to the 4 mm travel distance of the Yellow Silver switch. Generally, a 4.0 mm travel distance is considered traditional, while 3.0 mm is known for its shallower feel. However, in modern times, shorter travel distances have gained popularity, especially among gamers who value faster response times. Choosing the shorter travel distance option, such as the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch, will provide a more responsive typing experience. On the other hand, those who prefer a deeper keystroke may opt for the Outemu Yellow Silver switch, with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the preference for travel distance will depend on individual typing preferences and desired levels of responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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 Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch has a subdued sound when pressed. It is not completely silent, but it offers a more subtle sound compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. Both switches have a moderate actuation force requirement, making them suitable for various purposes and skill levels. 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 chosen.
When it comes to feel, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch is known for providing a mild typing experience. It is a gentle switch that falls within a safe middle-ground zone, making it approachable for most users. Additionally, it is described as snappy and buttery, offering a super responsive and smooth typing sensation. The switch's polished finish further enhances its overall feel, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, there is no specific information available about the feel of the Outemu Yellow Silver switch.
In conclusion, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and Outemu Yellow Silver switches have some differences in terms of sound and feel. The Semi-Silent Linear switch provides a more subdued sound, while the Yellow Silver switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. In terms of feel, the Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a mild, snappy, and buttery typing experience with a polished finish, while information about the feel of the Yellow Silver switch is not available. Both switches have a moderate actuation force requirement, making them suitable for a wide range of users.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a switch with a medium bottom out force, both the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the Outemu Yellow Silver are solid options. If you prioritize a more subdued and neutral sound profile, the Semi-Silent Linear is a great choice. It offers a whisper-quiet topping-out sound while maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound. On the other hand, if you prefer a neutral sound profile, the Yellow Silver will be suitable for your needs. As for the feel, the Semi-Silent Linear provides a mild, snappy, buttery, and polished typing experience, making it approachable and versatile. Unfortunately, there is no specific description available for the feel of the Yellow Silver. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your individual preferences and priorities. Consider whether you prioritize sound or feel, and choose the switch that aligns best with your preferences. In the end, both switches offer their own unique features and can enhance your typing or gaming experience.
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