Outemu Silent White vs. Outemu Silent Yellow
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent White and the Outemu Silent Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Silent White and Outemu Silent Yellow both offer a unique typing experience. The Silent White is a linear switch, providing a smooth keystroke without any tactile bump or audible click, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow is also a linear switch, but it offers a slightly heavier actuation force compared to the Silent White, which can suit individuals who prefer a more responsive key press. While both switches are known for their silent operation, the Silent White may be preferable for those who prioritize a lighter touch, while the Silent Yellow may be better suited for those who prefer a bit more resistance. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
1.60 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
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Silent White and Outemu Silent Yellow switches, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings that create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate. The translucency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for use with RGB lighting. However, the Silent White and Silent Yellow switches differ in their nylon bottom housings. The Silent White's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Silent Yellow's nylon bottom housing provides a similar sound profile, offering a deeper and fuller typing experience.
While both the Outemu Silent White and Silent Yellow switches share similarities in their polycarbonate top housings, the differences lie in the bottom housings' materials. The Silent White's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile upon key presses, absorbing more sound with its softer nature. Meanwhile, the Silent Yellow's nylon bottom housing also provides a similar typing experience with its absorbent properties, creating a rounder sound. This difference showcases how the bottom housing material can significantly influence the overall sound and feel of a switch, despite similarities in other components.
In understanding how the housing materials of the Outemu Silent White and Outemu Silent Yellow switches impact sound profiles, it is evident that the top and bottom housings play crucial roles in determining the overall typing experience. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharper sound profile, the nylon bottom housings differentiate the two switches in terms of the depth and roundness of their sound. The split qualities of the housing materials allow for a unique and customizable typing experience, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, the choice between the Silent White and Silent Yellow switches would depend on the desired sound profile and typing experience one seeks.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Silent White linear switch to the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch, it is clear that the Silent White is lighter in terms of actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Silent Yellow. The Silent White has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium-weight option. In contrast, the Silent Yellow has an actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, which makes it a heavier option. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Silent White more suitable, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Silent Yellow due to its heavier actuation and bottom out force. Both switches provide a quiet typing experience, but the differing force levels cater to different preferences in terms of typing feel.
Travel distance
The Outemu Silent White linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3mm, while the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch has a travel distance of 4mm. In this case, the Silent White has a shorter travel distance compared to the Silent Yellow. The shorter travel distance of 3.3mm in the Silent White may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of 4mm in the Silent Yellow may appeal to those who prefer a deeper key press feel. Both switches offer a smooth linear feel, but the difference in travel distance can cater to individual preferences based on sensitivity and typing style. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key press feedback.
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 Silent White 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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Silent White linear switch is known for a quieter typing experience compared to traditional mechanical switches, making it a popular choice for those who prefer a silent keyboard. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch also offers a quiet typing experience, with users noting a subtle sound profile that is comfortable for both work and gaming environments. Both switches provide a low noise output, allowing for undisturbed typing sessions, with the Silent White switch potentially having a slightly softer sound than the Silent Yellow switch.
Moving on to feel, the Outemu Silent White linear switch is praised for its smooth keystrokes, offering a satisfying typing experience with minimal resistance. Users appreciate the effortless actuation and consistent feel of the keys, making it a reliable option for prolonged use. Similarly, the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch provides a smooth typing experience, with a light and responsive feel that is conducive to fast typing speeds and gaming performance. Both switches offer a comfortable keypress that minimizes finger fatigue, ideal for users who spend extended periods at their keyboards.
In conclusion, both the Outemu Silent White and Silent Yellow linear switches offer a quiet and smooth typing experience that is well-suited for various tasks including work, gaming, and general computer use. While the specific sound and feel of each switch may have subtle differences, users can expect similar results in terms of low noise output and comfortable typing feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference and the specific requirements of the user, with both options providing reliable performance in a variety of usage scenarios.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch with a lighter bottom out force and a quieter sound, the Outemu Silent White linear switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a similar level of quietness, then the Outemu Silent Yellow linear switch would be more suitable. Consider your typing preferences and environment when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Silent White and Silent Yellow linear switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound level.
Mentioned in this article
