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Automatic Yoyos vs Unresponsive Yoyos

Automatic yoyo vs unresponsive yoyo

The most fundamental distinction between beginner yoyos and the majority of yoyos used today is whether the yoyo is Automatic (also known as Responsive) or Unresponsive. We’re here to explain the key differences, what has become of modern yoyoing today, and ultimately which type is perfect for you!

Automatic Yoyos: The Classic Experience

When you think of a traditional yoyo, you may imagine that once thrown it will automatically come back up and down with only the tug of your hand. These are Automatic yoyos and designed to return to your hand easily. 

Features:

  • Automatic Return: A slight tug on the string causes the yoyo to return back to your hand once thrown. Either the yoyo is wooden and has a “Fixed Axel” such as Wooden Boho or there is a small ball bearing instead made for Responsive Play. Some of these yoyos include the YoYoFactory Spinstar, ONE, and Arrow.
  • Narrow Gap: The space between the two halves of the yoyo is relatively small, allowing for more string friction to return to your hand.
  • Beginner-Friendly: Ideal for those just starting out or for younger ages.
  • Looping Style Tricks: Select yoyos such as Loop 360 are designed with the purpose of Looking Style of Tricks (2A Style of Play). The automatic response and extra small ball bearing allow these types of tricks.
YoyoFactory Yoyo Arrow - Starter Yoyo for Fingerspin Tricks
YoyoFactory Yoyo Arrow - Starter Yoyo for Fingerspin Tricks
Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
YoyoFactory Yoyo Halo Arrow - Starter Yoyo for Fingerspin Tricks - black Black Halo
YoyoFactory Yoyo Halo Arrow - Starter Yoyo for Fingerspin Tricks - white White Halo

Yoyo Arrow – Starter Yoyo for Fingerspin Tricks

15.99 €
Yoyo Wooden Boho – Classic Wood Yoyo Toy
Yoyo Wooden Boho – Classic Wood Yoyo Toy
Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
Yoyo Wooden Boho - Classic Wood Yoyo Toy Astronomical Clock
Yoyo Wooden Boho – Classic Wood Yoyo Toy Day Night

Yoyo Wooden Boho – Classic Wood Yoyo Toy

9.99 €
Yoyo Spinstar - Beginner Responsive Yoyo
Yoyo Spinstar - Beginner Responsive Yoyo
Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
Yoyo Spinstar - Beginner Responsive Yoyo wyyc edition Fire Marble
Yoyo Spinstar - Beginner Responsive Yoyo red Red

Yoyo Spinstar – Beginner Responsive Yoyo

9.99 €
Yoyo ONE - Beginner to Pro Starter Yoyo
Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
Yoyo ONE - Beginner to Pro Starter Yoyo black Black
Yoyo ONE - Beginner to Pro Starter Yoyo blue Blue
Yoyo ONE - Beginner to Pro Starter Yoyo green Green
Yoyo ONE - Beginner to Pro Starter Yoyo red Red

Yoyo ONE – Beginner to Pro Starter Yoyo

11.99 €

Unresponsive Yoyos: Modern Yoyoing Today

Unresponsive yoyos are used by the majority of players today. These yoyos don’t return to the hand with a simple tug. Instead, they require a specific trick called “Bind” to return. This allows players to do more complex tricks without the yoyo snapping back at you unexpectedly. 

Features:

  • No Automatic Return: The yoyo will continue spinning at the end of the string until a bind is performed. Yoyos such as the Shutter and Axolotl Metal are unresponsive.
  • Wider Gap: The space between the two halves is larger, reducing friction and allowing for longer spin times.
  • Advanced Tricks: Enables intricate string tricks and longer combinations. Players in competitive levels primarily use these types of yoyos on stage today.

Yoyo Axolotl Metal – Suitable for Advanced and Fingerspin Tricks
Yoyo Axolotl Metal – Suitable for Advanced and Fingerspin Tricks
Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page
Yoyo Axolotl Metal – Suitable for Advanced and Fingerspin Tricks Gold
Yoyo Axolotl Metal – Suitable for Advanced and Fingerspin Tricks Silver
Yoyo Axolotl Metal – Suitable for Advanced and Fingerspin Tricks Green Purple Splash

Yoyo Axolotl Metal – Suitable for Advanced and Fingerspin Tricks

45.99 €

Skill Progression:

Players can start with automatic yoyos and then transition into to unresponsive play as your skill improves.

You can learn everything you need to know on how to seamlessly transition into unresponsive play by using the SkillAddicts app! Download it free today and start your yoyo journey HERE.

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    Ann Bubák – Yoyo Blog Author

    Ann Bubák, formerly Ann Connolly, brings years of yoyo contest experience and community work to every article. She focuses on yoyo tricks instruction, yoyo equipment reviews and news from the world of modern yoyoing.

    Her goal is simple, help you enjoy yo-yo more!