Outemu Lotus vs. Outemu Silent Yellow
An in-depth look at the Outemu Lotus and the Outemu Silent Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Lotus and Outemu Silent Yellow both offer unique features and qualities to consider. The Lotus is a linear switch known for its smooth keystrokes and consistent feel, making it ideal for gamers and typists who prefer a responsive and seamless typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow is also a linear switch but is specially designed to reduce noise levels, making it perfect for those who work in quiet environments or share a space with others. While both switches offer distinct advantages, such as the Lotus's smoothness and the Silent Yellow's noise reduction, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing habits. 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
35g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Outemu Lotus and Outemu Silent Yellow both feature nylon as the material for the bottom housing, which results in a deep and full sound profile when typing. The nylon bottom housing in both switches is known for its ability to absorb sound due to being a softer plastic, creating a duller and rounder sound. This means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound when using either switch with a nylon bottom housing.
However, when it comes to the top housing, the Outemu Lotus utilizes nylon while the Outemu Silent Yellow uses polycarbonate. The nylon top housing of the Lotus contributes to a deeper and fuller typing sound, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent Yellow creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature. Additionally, the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent Yellow is clear, making it ideal for switches designed to use RGB lighting.
In terms of the overall typing experience, the housing materials used in the Outemu Lotus and Outemu Silent Yellow play a crucial role in the sound produced by each switch. While the nylon bottom housing creates a consistent deep and full sound profile for both switches, the difference in top housing material results in varying sound characteristics. The nylon top housing of the Lotus produces a duller and rounder sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent Yellow contributes to a sharper and crisper sound. Ultimately, users can choose between the switches based on their preference for the type of sound profile they desire in their typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Lotus linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, it's clear that there are significant differences in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Lotus has a lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a gentler typing experience. In contrast, the Silent Yellow switch requires a heavier actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a more solid and substantial typing feel. Those looking for a switch with a lighter touch may opt for the Lotus, while individuals who prefer a more robust keystroke may favor the Silent Yellow. Both switches offer distinct typing experiences, catering to different preferences and needs. If you enjoy a specific actuation force or bottom out force, choosing the appropriate switch will ensure you achieve similar results in terms of typing comfort and typing speed.
Travel distance
The Outemu Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, whereas the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of the two switches' travel distances, the Outemu Lotus offers a slightly shorter distance compared to the Outemu Silent Yellow. For those who prefer a faster response time and a shorter travel distance, the Lotus switch would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial keypress and a longer travel distance may opt for the Silent Yellow switch. Both switches offer varying travel distances, catering to different preferences and needs in typing or gaming experiences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
In this case, both switches are $3.10. As such, price can't serve as a tiebreaker when choosing between the Lotus and Silent Yellow.
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 Outemu Lotus linear switch is known for its smooth keystrokes and consistent actuation, making it a popular choice for fast typists. Its sound profile is relatively quiet compared to other switches, ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch is designed specifically to reduce noise, providing a nearly silent typing experience without sacrificing the smoothness and responsiveness expected from a linear switch. With both switches offering a similar linear feel, users can expect a consistent typing experience with either option, with the main difference being the sound output. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference for sound, as both switches provide a satisfying typing feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Outemu Lotus linear switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, your decision should be based on your preferences for typing feel and sound. If you prefer a lighter touch and a quieter typing experience, the Outemu Lotus switch with its 50-gram bottom out force may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier touch and don't mind a bit more sound while typing, the Outemu Silent Yellow switch with its 80-gram bottom out force may be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference and what feels best for your typing style.
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