Shutter Yoyos Explained: Shutter, Shutter WA, and Shutter Elite
There are only a few names in the yoyo community that resonate as strongly as Shutter. Designed by world champion Gentry Stein, the YoYoFactory Shutter line has become a staple in both competitive and yoyo collector’s bags for years. With multiple versions now available—including the original Shutter, the Shutter Wide Angle (WA), and the Shutter Elite—you may be wondering: What’s the difference? And which one is right for you? Continue below for all the current Shutter yoyos explained in this guide.
Released in 2013, the original Shutter was a breakthrough in affordable, high-performance yoyos. Designed by Gentry Stein, a rising star who would go on to win multiple U.S. and World titles, the Shutter was crafted to last over a decade with its timeless design while still meeting the depands of changing trends for competition. Accessible to everyday, casual players and competition ready, the Shutter has gone through numerous iterations to continue to deliver upon quality performance at various price points.
Gentry used the original Shutter to win the 2014 World Yo-Yo Contest in Prague, cementing its status as a legendary yoyo.
As yoyoing styles evolved, so did players’ needs. Enter the Shutter Wide Angle (WA) in 2018.
The WA version kept the spirit of the original but featured a more competition-focused design:
- Wider profile: Easier to land on the string during fast, complex combos.
- More rim weight: Better stability and longer spin times.
- Smoother feel: The weight and width added a perfect feel for smoother execution of tricks needed for players competing on stage.
Gentry used the Shutter WA to win the 2019 World Yo-Yo Contest.
The Shutter Elite is the premium upgrade to high performing metal yoyos. Remaining the similar shape and style as the Shutter Wide Angle, it contains stainless steel rings to its aluminum body, creating:
- Extreme rim weight distribution: Unmatched spin power and stability.
- Long Lasting Spin Time: Its bimetal construction gives spin time a longer lasting feel.
- Premium feel: Smooth finishes and professional-level play for intermediate and advanced players.
While not as affordable as the other Shutters, the Shutter Elite is considered the most top performing version of the Shutter line for serious competitors.
Shutter vs. Shutter WA vs. Shutter Elite
| Feature | Shutter (Original) | Shutter WA (Wide Angle) | Shutter Elite (Bi-Metal) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Release Year | 2013 | 2018 | ~2019 |
| Material | 6061 Aluminum | 6061 Aluminum | 6061 Aluminum + Stainless steel rims |
| Shape | Organic/Butterfly | Wider | Similar to WA, optimized |
| Performance | Solid, versatile | Faster, more stable | Top-tier, ultra stable |
| Price Range | €45-€50 | €53-€55 | €120 |
| Best For | Beginners to intermediate | Competitive play | Serious competition |
