Outemu Green vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the Outemu Green and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Green, a clicky switch, and the SP-Star Yanyu, a linear switch. The Outemu Green switch is best known for its satisfying clicky sound and tactile feedback, making it a favorite among gamers and typists who enjoy that extra sense of confirmation with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch is best known for its smooth linear action and delicate typing experience, perfect for long periods of typing without causing fatigue. The Yanyu's material blend gives it a crisp sound profile, creating a more subtle and polished typing 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
65g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
80g
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
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
Both the Outemu Green and SP-Star Yanyu switches feature unique housing materials that contribute to their overall sound profiles. The Green switch utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound. This is due to the stiff nature of polycarbonate, which leads to a more resonant sound. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch combines polymer nylon and UHMWPE in its top housing, resulting in a sound profile that is pleasant and on the brighter side. While both materials offer unique sound qualities, the polycarbonate in the Green switch is known for its translucency and compatibility with RGB lighting.
In terms of bottom housing, the Outemu Green switch utilizes nylon which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch blends polymer nylon and UHMWPE in its bottom housing, offering a unique sound profile that is also pleasant and bright. These differences in bottom housing materials contribute to the overall feel and sound of each switch, with the nylon in the Green switch providing a more impactful bottom-out sound and feel.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Outemu Green and SP-Star Yanyu switches, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. While the Green switch features a sharper and crisper sound due to its polycarbonate top housing, the Yanyu switch offers a pleasant and brighter sound profile with its blend of polymer nylon and UHMWPE. The bottom housing materials also play a significant role in the overall sound and feel of each switch, with the nylon in the Green switch providing a deeper and fuller sound compared to the blend in the Yanyu switch. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Green clicky switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, it is evident that they offer different experiences to the user. The Outemu Green switch has a higher actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, providing a heavier typing feel. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu switch has an unknown actuation force and a lighter bottom out force of 43 grams. The lighter weight of the Yanyu switch makes it more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming, as it requires less force to press the keys. In contrast, the heavier weight of the Green switch offers a more substantial typing experience that some users may prefer for a more tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on the user's preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Green clicky switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch is the same at 4 mm. This means that both switches will provide a similar keypress feel in terms of the distance traveled from the top to the bottom. As a result, users can expect a consistent typing experience regardless of which switch they choose. In terms of overall travel distance, neither switch is shorter or longer than the other, making them equal in this aspect.
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 Green 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 Green clicky switch is best known for its loud and tactile click, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch offers a neutral sound profile, providing a moderate level of feedback that is suitable for a wide range of users. While the Green switch is known for its clicky sound, the Yanyu switch offers a crisp and satisfying sound that is not overly loud, making it a great option for those who prefer a more subtle typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Green clicky switch is best known for its tactile and clicky feedback, providing a satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a more pronounced tactile response. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch offers a mild and feathery feel, with a gentle typing experience that is comfortable for extended use. The Yanyu switch's polished finish also adds to its smooth and refined feel, reducing friction and providing a sleek typing experience. Both switches offer unique qualities in terms of feel, catering to different preferences and typing styles.
In conclusion, the Outemu Green clicky switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Green switch provides a loud and tactile clicking sound with a satisfying typing experience, while the Yanyu switch offers a neutral sound profile and a gentle, feathery feel that is comfortable for extended use. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference and the type of typing experience that you prefer. Both switches offer quality results, but the choice between them will ultimately come down to individual preference and typing needs.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the Outemu Green clicky switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, consider the factors of bottom-out force, typing experience, sound profile, and feeling. If you prefer a heavier bottom-out force and a clicky typing experience without any specific preference on sound or feel, the Outemu Green clicky switch might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a lighter bottom-out force, a delicate typing experience, and a switch with a neutral or thocky sound profile, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, it comes down to your personal preferences and use case scenario when deciding between these two switches.
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