Outemu Silent Grey vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Grey and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Silent Grey and SP-Star Yanyu offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Outemu Silent Grey is renowned for providing a quiet and tactile typing experience, thanks to its pronounced bump and smooth keystroke. This switch is ideal for individuals who crave a satisfying yet silent typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu switch is perfect for those seeking a more delicate typing experience, especially during long typing sessions. With a material blend that produces a crisp sound profile, the Yanyu switch falls under categories like 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Subtle'. 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
1.60 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 Silent Grey and the SP-Star Yanyu switches feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Silent Grey's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound due to its stiff nature, while the Yanyu's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing offers a brighter, less sharp sound. In terms of aesthetics, the Clear housing of the Silent Grey indicates the use of polycarbonate, making it suitable for RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Yanyu's unique blend of materials provides a pleasant sound profile that is not particularly sharp.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Silent Grey utilizes nylon which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to the Yanyu's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend bottom housing, which also contributes to a pleasant and bright sound profile. The different housing materials in each switch give users a variety of options when it comes to sound preferences, with the Silent Grey offering a deeper and fuller sound while the Yanyu provides a brighter sound.
Overall, the housing materials of the Outemu Silent Grey and the SP-Star Yanyu switches play a crucial role in determining the sound characteristics of each switch. While the Silent Grey features a combination of polycarbonate and nylon for a sharper and deeper sound profile, the Yanyu utilizes a unique Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend for a brighter and more pleasant sound. Despite the differences in housing materials, both switches offer a range of sound profiles to cater to different preferences, making them versatile options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch has a higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. On the other hand, the Silent Grey has a higher bottom out force of 65 grams, while the Yanyu has a lower bottom out force of 43 grams. This means that the Silent Grey switch provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel, while the Yanyu switch offers a lighter touch, making it easier to type for longer periods of time. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and weight preference.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch is equal, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This similarity ensures that you will get consistent results in terms of key feel and feedback when using either switch. Both switches offer a moderate travel distance that provides a satisfying typing experience without requiring excessive force. Overall, the travel distance of these switches is well-suited for those who prefer a balanced and comfortable typing experience.
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 Silent Grey 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
The Outemu Silent Grey switch is best known for offering a quiet and highly tactile typing experience with a pronounced bump and smooth keystroke, making it perfect for those seeking satisfaction in a silent environment. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu switch is ideal for individuals looking for a more delicate typing experience or those who type for extended periods, thanks to its material blend that provides a crisp sound profile. When it comes to sound, the Yanyu switch is described as having a neutral or thocky profile, while the sound of the Silent Grey switch is not specified. As for the feel, the Yanyu switch is characterized as mild, feathery, subtle, and polished, offering a gentle and comfortable typing experience suitable for various users. Unfortunately, the specific feel of the Silent Grey switch is not provided. In conclusion, if you prefer a quiet and tactile typing experience, the Outemu Silent Grey switch would be a great choice, while the SP-Star Yanyu switch would be more suitable for those looking for a delicate and comfortable typing feel with a crisp sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch or the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a silent, highly tactile typing experience, the Silent Grey switch would be ideal for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a more delicate typing experience, the Yanyu switch would be a better fit. Additionally, if you are looking for a switch with a moderate sound profile and a gentle typing feel, the Yanyu switch would be a good choice. Consider these factors carefully when making your decision on which switch to go for. Ultimately, the best switch for you will be the one that aligns with your typing style and preferences.
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