Outemu Silent Yellow Jade vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade and the SP-Star Yanyu mechanical keyboard switches, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. The Outemu Silent Yellow Jade switches provide a quiet and tactile typing experience with a satisfying "thocky" sound, making them ideal for those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile bump. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu switches offer a more delicate typing experience, perfect for extended typing sessions thanks to their crisp sound profile. While the Silent Yellow Jade falls into the tactile category, the Yanyu is categorized as a linear switch. 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
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade and the SP-Star Yanyu switches both feature a blend of nylon, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. However, the Yanyu switch incorporates UHMWPE in its blend, leading to a slightly brighter sound overall. The Silent Yellow Jade switch's nylon top housing is known for creating a duller and rounder sound due to the softer nature of nylon, while the Yanyu switch's blend offers a unique and pleasant sound that falls on the brighter side. Both switches utilize nylon in their bottom housing as well, providing a consistent typing experience with deep and full sound profiles.
While both switches share the use of nylon in their top and bottom housings, the Silent Yellow Jade switch focuses on creating a deeper and fuller sound profile through its softer nylon material, resulting in a dulled and rounder sound. In contrast, the Yanyu switch's blend of polymer nylon and UHWMPE offers a brighter sound profile that is still considered pleasant. The differences in sound between the two switches can be attributed to the unique blend of materials used in the Yanyu switch, which adds a touch of brightness to the overall typing experience.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housings on the overall sound and feel of a switch, it becomes clear that each component plays a significant role. The bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. In the case of the Silent Yellow Jade and Yanyu switches, the differences in their housing materials contribute to varying sound profiles, with the Yanyu switch offering a brighter and slightly sharper sound compared to the deeper and duller sound of the Silent Yellow Jade. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and typing experience.
Weight
The Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch has a higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. In terms of bottom out force, the Silent Yellow Jade requires 65 grams to fully press down, whereas the Yanyu only needs 43 grams. This makes the Yanyu the lighter option of the two, ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch when typing. However, the Silent Yellow Jade provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference, with lighter switches being better for longer typing sessions and heavier switches offering a more tactile and responsive feel.
Travel distance
The Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Silent Yellow Jade the shorter travel distance option compared to the Yanyu. The difference of 0.7 mm may not seem significant, but it can affect the overall feel and responsiveness of the key press. Gamers who prefer faster response times may lean towards the Silent Yellow Jade, while those who enjoy a deeper key press experience may opt for the Yanyu. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and desired 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 Yellow 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 Silent Yellow Jade switch offers a unique "thocky" sound, producing a deep and satisfying noise when pressed. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of typing needs and preferences. The sound produced by a switch is also influenced by factors like the keyboard itself and the keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade switch does not have a specific descriptor provided, but it offers a quiet and tactile typing experience with a punchy bump. In comparison, the SP-Star Yanyu switch is described as having a mild, feathery, subtle, and polished feel. These characteristics make it a comfortable option for long typing sessions and provide a smooth and refined typing experience.
Overall, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade switch is ideal for those looking for a quieter and tactile typing experience with a distinct sound profile, while the SP-Star Yanyu switch caters to individuals seeking a gentle and polished typing feel that reduces finger fatigue. Both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience based on your preferences and needs. Whether you choose the Silent Yellow Jade or the Yanyu, you can expect a high-quality mechanical keyboard switch that will deliver excellent performance.
Conclusion
In summarizing, when deciding between the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, consider your typing preferences and environment. If you prioritize a quiet tactile typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Silent Yellow Jade may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a light bottom out force and a delicate typing experience that is suitable for long periods of typing, the Yanyu switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing requirements.
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