Kailh Berry vs. Outemu Silent Yellow
An in-depth look at the Kailh Berry and the Outemu Silent Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Kailh Berry linear switch to the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, it is apparent that they offer different typing experiences. The Kailh Berry switches are known for their hefty feel and springy texture, providing a deep sound profile categorized as 'Textured', 'Low-pitched', and 'Bassy'. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow switches are characterized by their silent operation without any specific descriptors. Depending on your preference for typing experience and sound profile, you may lean towards the Berry for its tactile feedback and auditory feedback, or the Silent Yellow for its quiet operation. 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
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Berry and Outemu Silent Yellow switches, we can see that they both share polycarbonate top housings. This means that they will both produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the use of polycarbonate, which is a stiffer plastic. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that have RGB lighting, adding to the aesthetic appeal. However, the use of nylon for the bottom housing in both switches results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound.
Despite sharing the same top housing material, the Kailh Berry and Outemu Silent Yellow switches differ in their bottom housing material with the Berry using nylon and the Silent Yellow using polycarbonate. This variation in material can impact the overall sound and feel of the switches. The softer nylon bottom housing of the Berry will contribute to a deeper sound profile and a softer bottom-out feel, while the Silent Yellow's polycarbonate bottom housing will result in a sharper sound profile and a crisper bottom-out feel. This difference showcases how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience.
Ultimately, the housing materials of the Kailh Berry and Outemu Silent Yellow switches play a crucial role in determining the sound and feel produced by each switch. While they both share the benefits of a polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and clear sound profile, the difference in bottom housing material highlights how the overall typing experience can vary between switches. Whether you prefer a deeper, fuller sound profile from nylon or a sharper, crisper sound profile from polycarbonate, understanding the impact of housing materials on switch performance is essential for finding the ideal keyboard switch for your typing preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, it is evident that there are notable differences between the two. The Berry switch has an actuation force of None grams, making it extremely light to trigger a keystroke, while the Silent Yellow requires 65 grams of force for actuation, showcasing a slightly heavier touch. In terms of bottom out force, the Berry switch requires 70 grams, which is considered medium-heavy, while the Silent Yellow has a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams. The difference in these forces means that the Berry switch would provide a lighter typing experience, making it suitable for extended periods of typing or gaming sessions, while the Silent Yellow switch offers a more substantial and tactile typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for either a lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Kailh Berry linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, making it shorter than the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Berry offers a slightly faster response time due to its shorter travel distance, which can be advantageous for gamers looking for quick keystrokes. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow provides a bit more depth to the key press, which may appeal to users who prefer a more pronounced feel when typing. Both switches offer a smooth linear actuation, but the difference in travel distance may cater to different preferences depending on individual typing styles. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for travel distance and key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the Kailh Berry comes in at $6.25, whereas the Outemu Silent Yellow comes in at $3.10.
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
When comparing the subjective qualities of the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, the Berry switch is known for its springy and chalk-like textured typing experience, accompanied by a fairly deep and low-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow switch does not have any specific characteristics mentioned for its typing feel or sound. Since the Silent Yellow switch lacks detailed descriptions in these aspects, it is likely that it provides a smoother and quieter typing experience compared to the Berry switch.
Overall, when considering sound and feel, the Berry switch offers a unique typing experience with its textured and springy feel, paired with a deep and bassy sound profile. In contrast, the Silent Yellow switch may provide a softer and more subdued typing feel and sound. It is important to note that individual preferences play a significant role in selecting the right switch for your mechanical keyboard setup. It is recommended to test out both switches to determine which one aligns best with your typing preferences and needs. Additionally, factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps can also influence the overall sound and feel of the switches. In conclusion, while the Berry and Silent Yellow switches may offer different subjective qualities, experimenting with both switches will help you find the perfect fit for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Kailh Berry linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a springy feel with a chalk-like texture and a deep sound profile, the Berry switch with its 70-gram bottom out force may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier typing experience with an 80-gram bottom out force and are not concerned about sound or additional tactile feedback, the Silent Yellow switch may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
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