Outemu Tom vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the Outemu Tom and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Tom tactile switch to the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, it's clear that both offer unique advantages depending on your typing preferences. The Tom is best known for its responsiveness, while the Yanyu is praised for providing a delicate typing experience ideal for long periods of use, thanks to its material blend that produces a crisp sound profile. The Tom falls into the category of tactile switches, whereas the Yanyu is categorized as smooth. Choosing between these switches will ultimately come down to personal preference and typing style; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.20 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
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Tom and the SP-Star Yanyu, both switches utilize unique materials for their top housing. The Tom features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffness and ability to produce a sharp, high-pitched sound profile. This is in contrast to the Yanyu, which uses a blend of polymer nylon and UHMWPE for its top housing, resulting in a pleasant and brighter sound profile. While the Tom's polycarbonate top housing is ideal for those looking to enhance RGB lighting effects, the Yanyu's blend offers a different acoustic experience with its softer and more absorbent properties.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the differences between the two switches become even more distinct. The Tom incorporates a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Yanyu's blend of polymer nylon and UHMWPE for the bottom housing creates a unique sound profile that leans towards the brighter side. These distinct material choices for the bottom housing of each switch significantly impact the overall typing experience, influencing factors such as sound and feel upon bottoming out a key.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the Outemu Tom and the SP-Star Yanyu differ, the overall performance and sound quality of these switches are dependent on the combination of both housing materials. The split in housing materials between the top and bottom housings allows for a unique blend of characteristics to be felt and heard when using these switches. Whether it's the crisp and resonant sound of the polycarbonate top housing in the Tom, or the pleasant and brighter sound profile of the Yanyu's polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend, each switch offers a distinct typing experience based on the materials used in their construction.
Weight
In comparing the Outemu Tom tactile switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, the actuation force of the Tom is 55 grams, while the Yanyu's actuation force is unknown. On the other hand, the bottom out force of the Tom is not specified, while the Yanyu has a bottom out force of 43 grams, making it a lighter option. Actuation force is crucial as it determines the force needed to trigger a keystroke, while bottom out force indicates the force required to press the key all the way down. Some users may prefer the Tom for its higher actuation force, providing a more substantial typing experience, while others might opt for the Yanyu for its lighter bottom out force, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Tom tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it on the shorter side of the spectrum. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, slightly longer than the Tom. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Yanyu offering a bit more depth compared to the Tom. Gamers may lean towards the Tom for its quicker response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing may opt for the Yanyu. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and 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 Tom 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 Tom tactile switch is known for its sound qualities, which unfortunately are not specified in the provided information. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch is described as having a crisp sound profile with options for a neutral sound or a thocky sound, depending on the user's preference and typing style. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Outemu Tom tactile switch's feel is not clearly defined in the information provided. In contrast, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch offers a variety of feel options, including mild, feathery, subtle, and polished. These options cater to users who prefer a gentler typing experience, reduced finger fatigue, a subtle resistance, or a smooth and refined key travel. This range of feel options ensures that users can find a switch that best suits their typing preferences and needs.
In conclusion, while the subjective qualities of the Outemu Tom tactile switch are not specified in the information provided, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch offers a range of sound and feel options for users to choose from. Both switches have their strengths, with the Yanyu switch being known for its delicate typing experience, crisp sound profile, and variety of feel options. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's personal preferences and typing requirements.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a switch with a light bottom out force and a delicate typing experience, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. These switches are perfect for long typing sessions and produce a crisp sound profile, providing a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that offers a unique typing experience with a varied sound profile, the Outemu Tom tactile switch may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for typing feel, sound, and bottom out force. Consider your typing habits and preferences to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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