SP-Star Yanyu vs. Outemu Yellow Silver
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Yanyu and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The SP-Star Yanyu and the Outemu Yellow Silver are two popular mechanical keyboard switches, both falling under the linear switch category. While they share similarities in being linear switches, they each have unique characteristics that make them stand out. The Yanyu switches are renowned for their delicate typing experience and are ideal for individuals who spend long periods typing. With a material blend that provides a crisp sound profile, the Yanyu switches are often favored by those who appreciate a subtle and polished typing feel. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver switches from Outemu are highly regarded for their light actuation force and neutral sound profile. These switches are particularly favored by gamers and typists seeking speediness and responsiveness. While these generalities can help guide you in your decision-making process, it's essential to explore each switch's intricacies to determine which one suits your preferences and needs the most.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Yanyu and the Outemu Yellow Silver switches differ significantly. The Yanyu switch features a unique blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE in its top housing, which offers a bright and pleasant sound profile. In contrast, the Yellow Silver switch employs a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. Aesthetically, the Yanyu switch's blend is not translucent, while the Yellow Silver switch's polycarbonate housing allows for the use of RGB lighting.
Moving to the bottom housing, the Yanyu switch's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend continues to provide a bright and pleasant sound profile. On the other hand, the Yellow Silver switch utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, contributing to a rounder and duller sound experience.
Although the top and bottom housings of the switches have different qualities, both the Yanyu and Yellow Silver switches will impact the sound when pressing down on a key. The qualities of the bottom housing, such as impact and bottom-out sound, will be felt more prominently. Conversely, the sound when releasing a key will be influenced by the top housing. Therefore, even with differing housing materials, users can expect similar results in terms of the overall typing experience with these switches.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, there are noticeable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Yanyu switch has an actuation force of unavailable grams, while the Yellow Silver switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Yanyu switch requires 43 grams of force, which is considered light, whereas the Yellow Silver switch requires 55 grams, falling into the medium-light category.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Yanyu switch would be a suitable choice. Its light actuation force and bottom out force allow for smoother and more effortless keystrokes. This makes it a great option for individuals who type for extended periods, such as in a work setting or during long gaming sessions.
On the other hand, the Yellow Silver switch offers a slightly heavier actuation force and bottom out force. This provides a more substantial and tactile typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. These switches are more suited for individuals who appreciate a bit more resistance and feedback when typing.
Both switches have their advantages depending on personal preferences and typing styles. If someone desires a lighter switch, they can achieve similar results to the Yanyu switch by ensuring that the actuation force and bottom out force of their preferred switch are within a similar range. Similarly, if someone prefers a heavier switch, they can opt for switches with forces closer to those of the Yellow Silver switch. Ultimately, considering the weight of a switch is essential as it directly affects the typing experience, allowing individuals to choose the option that best suits their needs.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch plays a significant role in the overall typing experience, dictating the distance the switch travels from top to bottom when a key is pressed. When comparing the travel distances of the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch and the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch, it becomes evident that both switches possess an identical travel distance of 4 mm. This means that whether typing on the Yanyu or the Yellow Silver, users can expect a consistent and uniform travel experience across both switches. While it is worth noting that both switches offer the same travel distance, providing similar results, no clarification can be made regarding which switch is shorter or longer, as their travel distances are equal.
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 Yellow Silver comes in at $3.40 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 Yanyu linear switch is best described as having a neutral sound profile with a crisp sound. This means that it produces a moderate sound that is suitable for most intents and purposes. It is not overly loud or clicky, making it appropriate for both beginners and advanced users. Additionally, the Yanyu switch is also described as having a thocky sound, which means it produces a deep and satisfying sound when pressed and released. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch is described as neutral. This means that it also has a moderate sound profile that is suitable for most users. However, since there is no additional information provided about the Yellow Silver switch's sound, we cannot make any further comparisons or judgments.
In terms of feel, the Yanyu linear switch offers a variety of qualities. It is described as having a mild feel, which means it offers a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. The Yanyu switch is also described as feathery, meaning it is exceptionally light to press and requires little exertion from the fingers. This reduces finger fatigue and makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Yanyu switch is described as having a subtle resistance that is not too light but still maintains a light typing feel. It is also said to have a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, there is no specific information provided about the feel of the Outemu Yellow Silver switch, so we cannot compare it to the Yanyu switch in this aspect.
Considering the available information, both the Yanyu and Outemu Yellow Silver linear switches have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for most users. However, the Yanyu switch is also known for its crisp and thocky sound, which may be favorable to those looking for a more pronounced and satisfying sound. In terms of feel, the Yanyu switch offers a mild, feathery, subtle, and polished experience, catering to those who prefer a gentle and comfortable typing experience. On the other hand, there is limited information provided about the feel of the Yellow Silver switch. Thus, if you are looking for a delicate typing experience or a switch that is light and comfortable for extended typing sessions, the Yanyu switch would be a good choice. If you are specifically looking for a switch with a neutral sound profile, both switches can provide similar results, but additional information about the Yellow Silver switch is needed to make a more accurate comparison.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a more delicate typing experience or plan on typing for long periods of time, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch would be a great choice. With a bottom out force of 43 grams, it offers a light and gentle typing feel. Additionally, the Yanyu's material blend provides a crisp sound profile, which can be satisfying for those who appreciate a thocky sound. On the other hand, if you prioritize speediness and responsiveness, especially for gaming or fast typists, the Outemu Yellow Silver linear switch would be a suitable option. It has a slightly higher bottom out force of 55 grams, offering a medium-light feel. While not much information is available about its sound profile, the Yellow Silver is described as having a neutral sound, which is versatile for various settings. Ultimately, the choice between the Yanyu and Yellow Silver depends on your personal preferences and specific use cases.
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