Cherry MX Speed Silver vs. Outemu Silent Yellow
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Outemu Silent Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Outemu Silent Yellow mechanical keyboard switches, it is evident that both switches offer unique features targeting different user preferences. The MX Speed Silver is characterized by its lightning-fast response time due to its linear action and low spring resistance, making it an ideal choice for gamers seeking maximum speed and precision in their keystrokes. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow switch, although lacking specific standout features, provides a smooth and silent typing experience, perfect for those looking for a quieter typing experience. 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
30g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
pom
Stem material
pom
Top housing material
Nylon
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 Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Outemu Silent Yellow switches both have unique housing materials that contribute to the overall typing experience. The MX Speed Silver features a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Silent Yellow utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The difference in these materials highlights how the type of plastic used can impact the sound and feel of a switch.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the MX Speed Silver and the Outemu Silent Yellow switches utilize nylon, which offers similar qualities in terms of sound and feel. The nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its ability to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics. This consistency in material for the bottom housing means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of the sound and feel when pressing down on the keys.
Overall, the choice of housing material for a switch can have a significant impact on the overall typing experience. While the Cherry MX Speed Silver and Outemu Silent Yellow switches differ in their top housing materials, they both offer a similar typing experience in terms of the bottom housing material. Understanding the qualities of each housing material, whether it be nylon for a softer and fuller sound or polycarbonate for a crisper and more resonant sound, can help users find the switch that best suits their preferences for typing sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, it is evident that they have significant differences. The MX Speed Silver has a lighter actuation force of 30 grams compared to the Silent Yellow's heavier 65 grams. Additionally, the Silent Yellow requires a bottom out force of 80 grams, indicating a more substantial typing experience compared to the MX Speed Silver, which does not have a specified bottom out force. This suggests that the MX Speed Silver may provide a lighter and smoother typing experience, ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions, while the Silent Yellow offers a more tactile and sturdy feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force preferences.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Cherry MX Speed Silver has a shorter travel distance compared to the Outemu Silent Yellow. Shorter travel distances are often favored by gamers for quicker response times, while longer travel distances can provide a more satisfying key press for some users. Both switches offer a smooth linear experience, but the Cherry MX Speed Silver may feel more responsive due to its shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for key press feel and response time.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Speed Silver has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Speed Silver for $4.00.
The Outemu Silent Yellow comes in at $3.10 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 Cherry MX Speed Silver switch is known for its immediate response and rapid triggering, making it popular among gamers seeking maximum speed. When it comes to sound, the MX Speed Silver produces a thocky, low-pitched noise, giving a satisfying and deep auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow switch's sound profile is unknown, but it is essential to consider that sound is influenced by various factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Cherry MX Speed Silver is noted for its textured feel, which provides a tactile feedback through noticeable friction when pressed. Some users may appreciate this texture, while others prefer a smoother typing experience. Unfortunately, information regarding the feel of the Outemu Silent Yellow switch is not available.
In conclusion, the Cherry MX Speed Silver and Outemu Silent Yellow linear switches offer different sound and potentially tactile experiences. While the MX Speed Silver is praised for its instant response, thocky sound, and textured feel, the qualities of the Outemu Silent Yellow switch remain undisclosed. In choosing between the two, it is essential to consider whether the speed and audible feedback of the Cherry MX Speed Silver align with your preferences, or if you prefer a quieter alternative like the Silent Yellow. Ultimately, try testing both switches if possible to determine which one best suits your typing or gaming needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switches, consider your priorities. If you prioritize speed and responsiveness in gaming, the MX Speed Silver with its instant triggering and low spring resistance would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force for a more deliberate typing experience, the Outemu Silent Yellow might be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and the specific needs of your typing or gaming style. Consider factors such as sound, feel, and bottom out force to determine which switch aligns best with your preferences.
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