Outemu Dustproof Black vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Black and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a plethora of options to choose from, each offering a unique typing experience. Two popular linear switches that stand out are the Outemu Dustproof Black and the SP-Star Yanyu. The Dustproof Black is best known for its durability and resistance to dust, making it a reliable choice for those who want a switch that will last a long time without sacrificing performance. On the other hand, the Yanyu switches are praised for their delicate typing experience and crisp sound profile, making them a great option for users who type for extended periods of time and prefer a quieter switch. The Dustproof Black falls under a more neutral categorization, while the Yanyu is characterized by its subtlety, polish, and feathery feel. 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
60g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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 Outemu Dustproof Black features a polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. In comparison, the SP-Star Yanyu utilizes a unique blend of polymer nylon and UHMWPE in its top housing, resulting in a sound profile that is pleasant and bright but not particularly sharp. While the Dustproof Black's top housing is ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency, the Yanyu's top housing offers a different aesthetic appeal with its blend of materials.
In terms of bottom housing, the Dustproof Black utilizes nylon, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Yanyu also uses a blend of polymer nylon and UHMWPE in its bottom housing, resulting in a sound profile that is pleasant and bright, similar to its top housing. Both switches offer unique sound profiles based on their bottom housing materials, with the Dustproof Black emphasizing depth and fullness while the Yanyu focuses on brightness and pleasantness.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Dustproof Black and the SP-Star Yanyu may come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile. While the Dustproof Black offers a sharper and crisper sound due to its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing, the Yanyu provides a more unique and pleasant sound profile with its blend of polymer nylon and UHMWPE in both top and bottom housings. Regardless, both switches showcase the different qualities that housing materials can bring to the overall typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch differ significantly. The Dustproof Black has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Yanyu is lighter with an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it easier to type for longer periods without fatigue. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Yanyu switch, while those who enjoy a more substantial push feel may opt for the Dustproof Black. Both switches offer a unique typing experience based on their respective actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch are both 4 mm, meaning that they have the same distance of travel. This similarity ensures that users will experience a consistent typing experience in terms of key press depth. Both switches offer a satisfying feel with their identical travel distances, allowing for a familiar typing experience whether using the Dustproof Black or the Yanyu switch. Despite any other differences between the switches, their equal travel distances ensure that users will not have to adjust their typing style when switching between keyboards with either of these switches.
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 Dustproof Black 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 Dustproof Black and SP-Star Yanyu switches offer different experiences. The Dustproof Black's sound profile is not well-known, whereas the Yanyu switches are described as having a crisp sound profile, with descriptors like "neutral" and "thocky." The Yanyu switches are suitable for various typing scenarios due to their moderate actuation force requirement and satisfying thocky sound when pressed. However, it's important to note that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Dustproof Black switch's characteristics are unspecified, while the Yanyu switches provide a range of descriptors such as "mild," "feathery," "subtle," and "polished." These descriptors suggest that the Yanyu switches offer a gentle and comfortable typing experience with light actuation forces, reduced finger fatigue, and a smooth key travel. The Yanyu switches are well-suited for extended typing sessions, including gaming, work, or school, as they provide a pleasant and approachable feel for most users.
In conclusion, the Outemu Dustproof Black and SP-Star Yanyu linear switches offer distinct sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing needs. While the Dustproof Black's subjective qualities remain unknown, the Yanyu switches are praised for their crisp sound profile and gentle typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound, feel, and typing intensity, you can expect to receive similar results with these switches based on their respective descriptions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your individual preferences and typing habits.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, you should consider your preference for typing experience. If you prefer a heavy bottom out force and do not have a specific typing preference, the Dustproof Black may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a delicate and satisfying typing experience, the Yanyu switch would be more suitable. Additionally, if you prioritize a neutral sound profile and a gentle typing experience, the Yanyu switch would be a great fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the type of typing experience you are looking for.
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