Outemu Brown vs. SP-Star Yanyu

Overview

When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Brown and the SP-Star Yanyu stand out as popular choices for different reasons. The Outemu Brown switch is best known for its tactile feedback, making it ideal for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu switch is beloved for its smooth linear action, making it perfect for users seeking a more delicate typing experience, especially for extended periods. While the Yanyu switch offers a crisp sound profile, the Brown switch provides a satisfying tactile feel during typing. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Outemu Brown Tactile

SP-Star Yanyu Linear

$3.10 per 10

$5.80

$5.40 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Brown and the SP-Star Yanyu, it is evident that they both offer unique characteristics that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch. The Brown's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile due to its relatively stiffer plastic composition. In contrast, the Yanyu's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing offers a pleasant, bright sound profile that is not particularly sharp. While both materials enhance the sound of the switch, the polycarbonate top housing of the Brown may be more suitable for RGB lighting due to its translucency.

On the other hand, when we look at the bottom housing materials of the Brown and the Yanyu, we see a divergence in their sound profiles. The Brown's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Yanyu's unique Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend bottom housing offers a sound profile that is pleasant and slightly on the brighter side. Although they both contribute to the overall sound profile of the switch, the nylon bottom housing of the Brown may provide a more rounded sound, while the Yanyu's blend bottom housing may offer a brighter tone.

Overall, the difference in housing materials between the Outemu Brown and the SP-Star Yanyu impacts the sound profile of the switches in distinct ways. The split between top and bottom housings allows for a unique combination of qualities that influence both the bottom-out sound and feel, as well as the sound when releasing a key. While the Brown's polycarbonate and nylon housing materials create a sharp and deep sound profile, the Yanyu's blend materials offer a more pleasant and bright sound. Both switches provide a variety of options for users looking to tailor their typing experience to their preferences.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Brown tactile switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, we can see clear differences in weight. The Outemu Brown has a medium-heavy actuation force of 53 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch has a lighter bottom out force of 43 grams, with the actuation force not specified. This lighter weight may be preferred by those looking for a smoother and faster typing experience. In terms of actuation force, the Brown switch requires a specific force to trigger a keystroke, while the Yanyu's actuation force remains unknown. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference, with the Brown being the heavier option and the Yanyu offering a lighter typing experience.

Travel distance

Both the Outemu Brown tactile switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience a consistent distance traveled from the top to the bottom. The similarity in travel distance between the two switches ensures that users can expect similar results in terms of keypress feel and responsiveness. In terms of travel distance, neither switch is shorter or longer than the other, making them both ideal choices for those looking for a standard keypress experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Outemu Brown switch is known for producing a neutral sound profile, which means it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile suitable for various needs. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu switch is described as having a thocky sound, which produces a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. Both switches offer different sound profiles, so the choice between them would depend on personal preference and the overall setup of your keyboard.

Moving on to the feel, the Outemu Brown switch lacks specific descriptors but is generally known for providing a tactile typing experience. In contrast, the SP-Star Yanyu switch offers a wide range of feels, including mild, feathery, subtle, and polished. These different feel options cater to individuals seeking various levels of typing comfort, from light and easy keypresses to a more refined and smooth typing experience. Ultimately, the feel of a switch is crucial to typing comfort, so choosing the right one is essential for a satisfying typing experience.

Considering the available information, the Outemu Brown switch is a solid choice for those seeking a tactile typing experience with a neutral sound profile. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu switch offers a variety of feel options, making it suitable for users looking for a specific typing feel, whether it be light and feathery or smooth and polished. Both switches have their unique qualities, so making a decision would depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience. Regardless of the choice, both switches are designed to enhance your typing experience and provide a reliable performance for your mechanical keyboard setup.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a tactile typing experience, the Outemu Brown switches would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smooth linear typing experience, the SP-Star Yanyu switches would be more suitable. The Yanyu switches are also ideal for those looking for a delicate typing experience or typing for extended periods of time due to their feathery and polished characteristics. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches would depend on your personal preferences in terms of typing feel, bottom out force, and sound profile.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Brown Tactile

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

SP-Star Yanyu Linear

$5.80

$5.40 per 10

Learn more