Outemu Spring Breeze vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the Outemu Spring Breeze and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Spring Breeze and the SP-Star Yanyu offer distinct typing experiences. The Spring Breeze is a clicky switch, known for its satisfying tactile feedback and audible click sound. On the other hand, the Yanyu is a linear switch, favored for its smooth and consistent keystrokes. The Spring Breeze is ideal for users who enjoy the tactile sensation and audible feedback while typing, whereas the Yanyu is perfect for those seeking a more delicate and quiet typing experience, especially for long periods of time. 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
40g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
1.50 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
Nylon
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 housing materials of the Outemu Spring Breeze and the SP-Star Yanyu both utilize nylon in their construction, providing a unique typing experience. The nylon top housing of the Spring Breeze produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Yanyu's blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE in the top housing offers a pleasant, brighter sound profile. Despite their differences, both switches offer a distinct sound experience that enhances typing satisfaction.
In terms of the bottom housing, the nylon material used in both the Spring Breeze and the Yanyu contributes to the overall sound profile of the switches. The softer plastic of nylon absorbs sound effectively, creating a deeper and fuller sound when typing on these switches. However, the Yanyu's blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE in the bottom housing adds a unique twist to the sound profile, leaning towards a brighter tone compared to the Spring Breeze. Both switches showcase the versatility of nylon as a housing material, providing users with varying sound experiences based on the blend used.
Overall, the combination of different housing materials in the Outemu Spring Breeze and the SP-Star Yanyu switches offers users a wide range of sound profiles to choose from. While the nylon top housing of the Spring Breeze produces a duller and rounder sound, the Yanyu's blend of materials results in a brighter and more pleasant sound profile. The bottom housing also plays a significant role in the sound experience, with the nylon material contributing to the overall depth and fullness of the sound. Whether you prefer a softer, deeper sound or a brighter, more energetic tone, these switches provide unique options for customizing your typing experience.
Weight
The Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Spring Breeze has a medium-light actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, while the Yanyu has a light bottom out force of 43 grams and unknown actuation force. The Spring Breeze provides a slightly heavier typing experience compared to the Yanyu due to its higher bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter typing feel may lean towards the Yanyu, as it requires less force to bottom out. In contrast, those who prefer a bit more resistance might find the Spring Breeze more suitable. Both switches offer unique typing experiences, catering to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on whether you prefer a lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same amount of travel. Both switches offer a consistent and satisfying typing experience in terms of the distance the key travels. So, in this aspect, you will get similar results with both 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 Spring Breeze 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 Spring Breeze clicky switch is best known for its unique None sound profile, while the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch is best known for its crisp and delicate sound profile, making it a great choice for those who prefer a softer typing experience. The Spring Breeze's sound profile is not clearly defined, making it a bit of a wild card in terms of noise level and tone. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch falls under the 'Neutral' and 'Thocky' descriptors, meaning it has a moderate sound and a satisfying thud when pressed and released. Keep in mind that the sound produced by these switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch lacks a specific descriptor, leaving its typing experience up to interpretation. In contrast, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch offers a gentle and comfortable typing experience, falling under descriptors such as 'Mild', 'Feathery', 'Subtle', and 'Polished'. These characteristics make the Yanyu switch suitable for most users, as it strikes a balance between ease of use, comfort, and a refined typing feel. The feathery and subtle qualities of the Yanyu switch, combined with its polished finish, contribute to a smooth and comfortable typing experience that can alleviate finger fatigue during long typing sessions.
Overall, while the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch differ significantly in their sound and feel qualities, they both offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences. If you are looking for a switch with a distinct sound profile and are open to a variety of typing experiences, the Spring Breeze may be worth considering. On the other hand, if you prioritize a gentle and polished typing feel that minimizes finger fatigue, the Yanyu switch is a solid choice. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are seeking.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, you should consider your preference for typing force and sound profile. If you prefer a medium-light typing force and are looking for a clicky switch option, the Spring Breeze may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter typing force and are looking for a linear switch with a delicate typing experience and crisp sound profile, the Yanyu switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your individual typing preferences and the type of typing experience you are seeking. Consider factors such as typing force, sound profile, and overall typing feel to determine which switch would best suit your needs.
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