Outemu Spring Breeze vs. TTC Yunhai
An in-depth look at the Outemu Spring Breeze and the TTC Yunhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Spring Breeze and TTC Yunhai offer distinct experiences tailored for different preferences. The Spring Breeze, known for its clicky feedback, delivers an engaging tactile response that typists often find satisfying, making it ideal for those who enjoy the nostalgic sound and feel of traditional typewriters. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai switches are celebrated for their linear design, featuring a deep, rounded sound profile paired with an incredibly light actuation force, which appeals to users who prefer a smooth and effortless keystroke without the interruption of clicking noises. Ultimately, selecting between these two switches hinges on whether you value tactile feedback or a more fluid typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that's right for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
pom
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Outemu Spring Breeze and the TTC Yunhai both feature nylon as their housing material for both the top and bottom sections, which leads to a notably similar acoustic profile when typing. Nylon is recognized as a classic material in switch housings due to its inherent properties. It is softer than many other types of plastics, which results in a sound profile that is deeper and more resonant. As a result, both switches elicit a fuller sound when used, characterized by a duller and rounder timbre that is preferable for many typists and gamers alike. This commonality in material not only influences the auditory qualities of the switches but also contributes to a tactile experience that users might find reassuringly consistent across both options.
In addition to their acoustic similarities, the nylon materials used in both the Spring Breeze and Yunhai contribute to their durability and longevity. Both switches utilize nylon for the bottom housing, which plays an especially significant role during the bottoming out process. The bottom housing's softer nature helps to absorb impact, making the keys feel cushioned upon press. Consequently, both switch models provide a degree of feedback that is satisfying to the user, thereby enhancing the overall typing experience. Given that both the Spring Breeze and Yunhai utilize the same materials in their housings, one can expect similar durability and performance, reinforcing the idea that reputation for reliability is shared between these two options.
While both models feature the same nylon materials for housing, it's essential to note that variations in switch design, actuation points, and internal mechanisms may lead to distinct overall experiences in typing feedback and sound. For instance, if one model happens to utilize a different actuation mechanism or spring weight even while retaining the nylon housing, it may yield minor differences in feel or sound upon actuation. However, the foundational acoustic properties that nylon provides will remain consistent, ensuring that users can expect similar sound profiles when typing on either the Outemu Spring Breeze or the TTC Yunhai. This shared materiality allows enthusiasts to confidently choose between the two based on other preferred features.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch, notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Spring Breeze features an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, classifying it as medium-light. In contrast, the Yunhai switch requires a slightly heavier actuation force of 42 grams, but has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that while the Yunhai switch is ultimately lighter overall, as it requires less force to bottom out, the Spring Breeze offers a more pronounced push feel thanks to its higher bottom out force. Consequently, users who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended use might gravitate towards the Yunhai switch, where it's easier on the fingers over longer sessions. However, those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience might favor the Outemu Spring Breeze, particularly for its stronger bottom out feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch, there is a clear distinction between the two. The Spring Breeze features a travel distance of 4 mm, making it a more traditional choice that provides a deeper and more tactile feel upon key presses. In contrast, the Yunhai has a shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm, which appeals to gamers and users seeking quicker response times. While both switches cater to different preferences, the Spring Breeze's greater distance may be preferred by those who enjoy a more pronounced keystroke, offering a less abrupt transition. Ultimately, if you're looking for a switch with a more robust depth, the Outemu Spring Breeze is the better option, while the TTC Yunhai provides a snappier response with its shorter travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Yunhai has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yunhai for $5.99.
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
The sound characteristics of the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch remain unspecified, leaving this aspect open to personal interpretation and system compatibility. In contrast, the TTC Yunhai linear switch is noted for its deep, rounded sound profile, which can provide a pleasant auditory experience for users. This sound profile complements the switches' design and may appeal to those who seek a more nuanced acoustic while typing. However, it's essential to remember that the overall sound produced by both switches will largely depend on additional factors such as the keyboard's construction, the type of keycaps used, and even the typing surface.
When considering the feel of both switches, the Spring Breeze's qualities are also unspecified, creating an opportunity for users to tailor their experience based on personal preference and usage context. Conversely, the TTC Yunhai switch is recognized for its incredibly light actuation force, which can result in a typing experience that feels gentle and effortless. This makes the Yunhai particularly suitable for typists looking for a switch that minimizes finger fatigue while providing a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke.
In conclusion, while the TTC Yunhai linear switch stands out for its deep sound profile and soft actuation, the Outemu Spring Breeze lacks defined qualities in both sound and feel, leaving its performance somewhat ambiguous. For typists seeking specific auditory and tactile feedback, the Yunhai would likely be the superior choice, but if the Spring Breeze can deliver in these categories once the qualities are acknowledged, it could provide a similarly enjoyable typing experience, albeit with less information to gauge its performance comprehensively.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch and the TTC Yunhai linear switch will ultimately depend on your typing preferences and intended use. If you enjoy a medium-light actuation force paired with a clicky feedback that adds a tactile and audible essence to your typing experience, then the Spring Breeze might be the right choice for you. This switch is great for those who appreciate a bit of auditory feedback with each keystroke, providing an engaging feel that can enhance typing rhythm. Alternatively, if you prefer a lighter touch and an effortless typing experience with a smoother keypress, the TTC Yunhai linear switch may be more to your liking. Known for its deep and rounded sound profile, the Yunhai offers a gentler actuation which can make long typing sessions more comfortable and less fatiguing. In summary, if you lean towards a more dynamic typing experience with tactile feedback, go for the Spring Breeze, but if you value a soft, quiet, and smooth keystroke, the Yunhai will likely serve you better. Thus, your choice should align with the typing style that suits you best.
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