Outemu Yellow Silver vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the Outemu Yellow Silver and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
In the world of mechanical keyboards, the Outemu Yellow Silver and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° are two standout linear switches that offer unique features and benefits. The Yellow Silver, from Outemu, is well-loved for its light actuation force and neutral sound profile, making it a great choice for those who prioritize speediness and responsiveness in their typing or gaming experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° is known for its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure, which provides unparalleled smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel that absorbs sound and reduces noise. While both switches have their own strengths and appeal, ultimately the best choice will depend on your personal preferences and usage. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Yellow Silver and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° both feature polycarbonate top housings, which are known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. This means that both switches will offer similar sound profiles and visual appeal thanks to their polycarbonate top housings.
However, where these two switches differ is in their bottom housings. The Yellow Silver boasts a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Zero Degree 0°'s polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This means that typing on the Yellow Silver switch may feel different in terms of sound and feedback compared to the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, despite their similar top housings.
Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Yellow Silver and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° will depend on the user's preference for sound and feel while typing. The Yellow Silver offers a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, creating a more resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° provides a consistent sound profile with its polycarbonate top and bottom housings. Both switches have their own unique qualities, making them suitable choices for different preferences in mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, we see that both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams. However, the Yellow Silver has a bottom out force of 55 grams, while the bottom out force for the Zero Degree 0° is unknown. The Yellow Silver is considered medium-light in terms of force required, providing a balance between ease of typing and a substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° offers a lighter typing experience as its bottom out force is unavailable. This difference in bottom out force may result in a slightly softer typing feel compared to the Yellow Silver. Ultimately, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Zero Degree 0°, while those who favor a bit more resistance may opt for the Yellow Silver.
Travel distance
The Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Zero Degree 0° has the shorter travel distance compared to the Yellow Silver. The 0.4 mm difference may seem subtle, but it can impact the feel and responsiveness of the key press. Gamers may lean towards the Zero Degree 0° for its faster response time, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Yellow Silver. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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
Overall, both the Outemu Yellow Silver and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Yellow Silver provides a light actuation force and a neutral sound profile, ideal for those seeking speed and responsiveness in their typing or gaming experience. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° switch from Gateron boasts a revolutionary design that focuses on reducing sound and providing a smooth, stable, and elastic feel for a quieter typing experience. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer distinct advantages that can enhance your overall typing or gaming experience. It is important to consider other factors such as keycaps and keyboard construction when choosing between these switches to achieve the desired result. Ultimately, while the sound and feel may differ between the two switches, they both provide quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, consider your preference for actuation force and sound profile. If you value a light actuation force and a neutral sound profile, the Yellow Silver may be the better choice for you, especially if you are a gamer or typist looking for speediness and responsiveness. On the other hand, if you prioritize silent typing and smoothness, the Zero Degree 0° switch with its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, both switches have their unique features and advantages, so make your decision based on your specific needs and preferences.
Mentioned in this article
