Outemu Blue Jade vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the Outemu Blue Jade and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Blue Jade, a clicky switch, and the SP-Star Yanyu, a linear switch. The Blue Jade is best known for its satisfying tactile feedback and audible click, making it a favorite among users who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience. On the other hand, the Yanyu switches are perfect for those seeking a smoother and quieter typing experience, particularly suitable for long periods of typing. The Yanyu's material blend contributes to a crisp sound profile, offering a more delicate and subtle typing feel. While the Blue Jade offers a more tactile and clicky experience, the Yanyu provides a smoother and quieter alternative. 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
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Blue Jade and SP-Star Yanyu switches both utilize nylon in their top housings, albeit in different compositions. The Blue Jade's nylon top housing is praised for producing a deep and full sound profile due to its softer plastic nature, absorbing more sound and creating a rounder tone. On the other hand, the Yanyu's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing offers a unique sound profile that is bright yet not overly sharp. While both switches use nylon in their top housing, the Yanyu's blend brings a slightly brighter sound compared to the Blue Jade's more mellow tone.
In terms of bottom housings, both switches also utilize nylon, contributing to a deep and full sound profile. The Blue Jade's nylon bottom housing, like its top housing, absorbs sound well and creates a duller and rounder tone. Similarly, the Yanyu's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend bottom housing produces a pleasant sound profile that leans towards the brighter side. Despite the slight difference in composition, both switches offer a rich sound experience with their nylon bottom housings, enhancing the overall typing experience.
When comparing the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall sound and feel of the switch, the qualities of each material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has more of an influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. Both the Outemu Blue Jade and SP-Star Yanyu switches benefit from the characteristics of their respective housing materials, providing users with a unique and enjoyable typing experience.
Weight
The Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch has a higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Yanyu switch has a lighter bottom out force of 43 grams, while the Blue Jade switch has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams. This means that the Blue Jade switch offers a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force, which some users may prefer for a more tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch provides a lighter typing experience with a lower bottom out force, ideal for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions. Both switches offer varying levels of force for actuation and bottoming out, catering to different preferences in typing feel.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel before the key registers. As a result, the tactile feedback and overall typing experience will be consistent between the two switches. The equal travel distance ensures that regardless of which switch you choose, you will get a similar typing feel and performance. Therefore, there is no significant difference in travel distance between the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Yanyu has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yanyu for $5.40.
The Outemu Blue Jade 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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch is known for its sharp and distinctive click sound, adding a tactile feedback that some users find satisfying. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, providing a moderate and versatile typing experience suitable for various settings. Keep in mind that the sound of a keyboard switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Blue Jade switch offers a tactile and responsive typing experience, with a noticeable bump at the actuation point. In contrast, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch is characterized by a smooth and gentle typing feel, promoting a more delicate and comfortable typing experience that may be preferred for longer typing sessions. The Yanyu switch's light actuation force and subtle resistance contribute to reduced finger fatigue and enhanced comfort during extended use.
In conclusion, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Blue Jade switch provides a sharp click sound and a tactile typing experience, the Yanyu switch offers a smooth and gentle typing feel with a versatile neutral sound profile. Depending on personal preference and typing style, both switches can provide satisfactory results, with the Blue Jade for those seeking a more tactile feedback and the Yanyu for users looking for a softer and more delicate typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences and typing habits.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing needs. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a clicky typing experience, the Blue Jade may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a more delicate typing experience, especially for extended typing sessions, the Yanyu linear switch is a great option. Consider the sound profile and feel of each switch as well, with the Blue Jade offering a distinct clicky sound and the Yanyu providing a more subtle thocky sound. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences for a satisfying typing experience.
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