Jwick Taro vs. Outemu Yellow Silver
An in-depth look at the Jwick Taro and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introduction:
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Jwick Taro and the Outemu Yellow Silver. The Jwick Taro switch is well-known for its comfortable and subdued color scheme, offering a cozy typing experience. Users can expect a snappy and medium-level of tactility, accompanied by acute and crisp clacks. On the other hand, the Outemu Yellow Silver switch, produced by the reliable Outemu brand, is favored by gamers and typists seeking speediness and responsiveness. With a light actuation force and a neutral sound profile, it caters to those who prioritize quick reactions. Both switches have their strengths, but it's essential to delve deeper into their characteristics to determine the best fit for your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
No
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 Taro and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches have similar housing materials in terms of their polycarbonate top housings. Both switches utilize polycarbonate to create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetic when comparing the polycarbonate top housings of these two switches.
However, the housing materials differ when it comes to the nylon bottom housings. The Jwick Taro's nylon bottom housing is known to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Outemu Yellow Silver also uses a nylon bottom housing, resulting in similar qualities of a deeper and fuller sound profile. The use of nylon in the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel, as it absorbs more sound during typing. Therefore, users can expect comparable results when comparing the nylon bottom housings of both switches.
In summary, the polycarbonate top housings of the Jwick Taro and the Outemu Yellow Silver provide similar sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profiles, as well as the advantage of being compatible with RGB lighting. Both switches also utilize nylon in their bottom housings, resulting in deeper and fuller sound profiles due to the softer plastic's sound absorption capabilities. The impact of the housing materials is split between the bottom and top of the switches, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Jwick Taro tactile switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, it becomes clear that they have distinct characteristics. The Taro's actuation force is unavailable, making it difficult to draw a direct comparison. However, its bottom out force is 67 grams, indicating a medium-heavy feel. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver switch boasts an actuation force of 45 grams, offering a lighter touch, while its bottom out force is 55 grams, making it medium-light. Those seeking a lighter typing experience for extended periods might prefer the Yellow Silver due to its lighter actuation force, beneficial for work or lengthy gaming sessions. Meanwhile, individuals desiring a more substantial feel and a stronger push option should consider the Taro with its medium-heavy bottom out force. Overall, while the actuation forces of these switches differ, both the Taro and the Yellow Silver provide comparable results in terms of bottoming out requirements.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Jwick Taro tactile switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, there is a notable difference. The Taro has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Yellow Silver has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of traditional travel distances, both fall within the acceptable range. However, if you are a gamer seeking faster response times, the shorter travel distance of the Taro may be more appealing. Gamers often prefer switches with shorter travel distances, as it allows for quicker key presses. On the other hand, if you desire a deeper and more pronounced key press, the Yellow Silver with its longer travel distance might be the better choice. It is essential to consider personal preference when selecting a switch, as the sensation and experience can greatly impact typing or gaming performance. Ultimately, the decision will depend on whether you prioritize a more responsive and precise input or a more substantial and satisfying keystroke.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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
The Taro switch is best known for its cozy typing experience and snappy, medium-level tactility. Users will also hear acute and crisp clacks while typing on these switches. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver switch by Outemu is favored for its light actuation force and neutral sound profile, making it suitable for gamers and typists who prefer speediness and responsiveness. Unfortunately, no information is available regarding the feel of the Yellow Silver switch.
In terms of sound, both the Taro and Yellow Silver switches are described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that they have a moderate actuation force requirement and produce a moderate sound. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Taro switch is described as having a "buttery" and "stepped" feel. This implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The stepped feel of the Taro switch means that it has two stages of tactility, allowing users to feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel. Unfortunately, no information is available regarding the feel of the Yellow Silver switch.
Overall, both the Taro and Yellow Silver switches offer favorable qualities. They have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various purposes, whether one is a beginner or advanced user, or whether they are used at home or in the workplace. However, while the Taro switch provides a buttery and stepped feel, no information is available regarding the feel of the Yellow Silver switch. Nevertheless, based on the available information, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound with both switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a cozy and tactile typing experience, the Jwick Taro tactile switch is the way to go. With its medium-heavy bottom out force and snappy tactility, you will enjoy a comfortable and satisfying typing experience. Additionally, the Taro switch has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users in any setting, whether it be at home or work. The Taro switch is also described as buttery and stepped, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with a mild tactile feel.
On the other hand, if you prioritize speediness and responsiveness, the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch is a great choice. With a medium-light bottom out force and a light actuation force, this switch is favorable for gamers and typists who prefer a quick and precise typing experience. The Yellow Silver switch also has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes and environments.
Ultimately, the decision between the Jwick Taro tactile switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch comes down to personal preference and typing style. Consider whether you prioritize a tactile typing experience or a linear feel, and whether you prefer a heavier or lighter bottom out force. Both switches offer a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making them versatile options for any level of user. In the end, choose the switch that aligns with your preferences and typing needs.