TTC Speed Silver vs. Outemu Yellow Silver
An in-depth look at the TTC Speed Silver and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two options stand out: the TTC Speed Silver and the Outemu Yellow Silver. Both switches are linear switches, providing a smooth keystroke without any tactile feedback. The Speed Silver is best known for its fast and precise typing experience, making it ideal for those who value speed and accuracy. With a reduced travel distance, these switches allow for quick and effortless actuation. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver switch from Outemu is favored by gamers and typists who prioritize speediness and responsiveness. It features a light actuation force and a neutral sound profile, ensuring a comfortable and responsive gaming or typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities, so you can make the best decision for your specific needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Speed Silver and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches share many similarities. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing that contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which allows for a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. Both switches also utilize a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
While the housing materials may be the same for both switches, the qualities of each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on either switch, the qualities of the bottom housing will be felt. This means that the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. On the other hand, the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the overall sound profile of the two switches may differ slightly due to the variance in top and bottom housing materials.
In conclusion, both the TTC Speed Silver and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches benefit from the use of polycarbonate and nylon in their respective housing materials. The polycarbonate top housing enhances the sound profile with a sharper and crisper tone, particularly when combined with RGB lighting. Meanwhile, the nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound experience. While the switching experience may vary slightly due to the split in housing materials, both switches provide distinct sound profiles that can be appreciated by mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Speed Silver linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams and bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that both switches offer a medium-light feel in terms of force required to trigger a keystroke and to press all the way down. The weight of the switches becomes a deciding factor for individuals based on their preferences and needs. Those who prefer a lighter switch may opt for either of these options, as they allow for longer periods of typing without fatigue and are suitable for bringing to work or engaging in long gaming sessions. On the other hand, those seeking a more substantial typing experience may prefer a switch with a heavier force. In this case, both the TTC Speed Silver and Outemu Yellow Silver switches offer a similar typing experience, providing users with similar results in terms of force required.
Travel distance
The TTC Speed Silver linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch have different travel distances. The Speed Silver has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Yellow Silver has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Yellow Silver has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Speed Silver.
In terms of preferences, the Speed Silver's shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm might be more appealing to gamers who prioritize faster response times. The shorter distance allows for quicker keystrokes, resulting in a more responsive gaming experience. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver's 4 mm travel distance may be preferred by those who appreciate a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on the keys.
It's important to note that the overall preference for travel distance varies from person to person. Some individuals may find shorter travel distances too abrupt, while others may find longer distances more comfortable. Ultimately, it is a matter of personal preference and what feels most intuitive to the user. Both the TTC Speed Silver and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches offer distinct travel distances, allowing users to choose the one that aligns with their specific needs and preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
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, both the TTC Speed Silver and Outemu Yellow Silver switches have a neutral sound profile. This means that they have a moderate actuation force requirement and produce a sound that is suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced, and whether you plan to use these switches at home or work. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the TTC Speed Silver is described as having a mild typing experience. It offers a more gentle and approachable feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Additionally, the Speed Silver switch is also described as "polished," indicating that it has a smooth and refined finish. This results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, there is no available information specifically describing the feel of the Outemu Yellow Silver switch.
Taking all the available information into account, both switches offer a light actuation force and are suited for gamers and typists who prefer speediness and responsiveness. Both switches also have a neutral sound profile, suitable for various purposes. However, the TTC Speed Silver switch has the added advantage of a refined finish and a more approachable typing experience due to its mild characteristics. With the Outemu Yellow Silver switch, more information is needed to fully evaluate its overall feel and characteristics. It is important to consider personal preferences and requirements when choosing between these switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, both the TTC Speed Silver linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch have similar bottom out forces, sound profiles, and actuation forces. However, there are some differences in terms of feel. The Speed Silver is known for its mild and polished feel, offering a gentle and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, there is no specific description given for the feel of the Yellow Silver switch.
Based on this information, if you value a fast and precise typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a pristine sound profile, the Speed Silver switch would be a great choice for you. Its reduced travel distance allows for quick and effortless actuation. Additionally, the mild and polished feel of the Speed Silver switch ensures a comfortable and smooth typing experience.
Alternatively, if you prefer a switch that is suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work, both switches would be good options due to their moderate actuation force requirement and moderate sound profiles. However, since there is no specific description provided for the feel of the Yellow Silver switch, it may be worth considering how important the feel of the switch is to you before making a decision.
Ultimately, the decision between the TTC Speed Silver and Outemu Yellow Silver switches will depend on your specific preferences and priorities. It is recommended to try out both switches if possible to determine which one suits your typing or gaming style best.
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