KTT Ash Gray vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the KTT Ash Gray and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the KTT Ash Gray, a tactile switch, and the SP-Star Yanyu, a linear switch. The Ash Gray switch is designed to deliver a tactile response that strikes a perfect balance between being tactile and unobtrusive. With a light touch and crisp actuation, it offers a delightful blend of tactile feedback without overwhelming your fingertips. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch is ideal for those seeking a more delicate typing experience, especially during prolonged typing sessions. Its material blend provides a crisp sound profile, making it satisfying to use. The Ash Gray switch is categorized as easy-to-press, mild, and neutral, while the Yanyu switch is known for its neutral, mild, thocky, feathery, subtle, and polished characteristics. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
18mm spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The KTT Ash Gray and the SP-Star Yanyu have different housing materials, which greatly impact their sound profiles. The Ash Gray utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The stiffness of polycarbonate enhances clarity and resonance, making it perfect for switches with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Yanyu features a Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing, offering a pleasant sound profile that leans towards brightness rather than sharpness.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Ash Gray incorporates a nylon material, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Meanwhile, the Yanyu's bottom housing is a unique blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE, complementing the sound profile of the top housing. The resulting sound profile is pleasant, lacking sharpness but leaning towards brightness.
When using a switch with different top and bottom housing materials, the qualities of each material are divided between the bottom-out sound and feel, as well as the sound when releasing a key. In the case of the Ash Gray, the bottom housing will have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, thanks to the nylon material. The top housing, which is polycarbonate, will primarily affect the sound when letting go of a key. Similarly, the Yanyu's blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE will determine the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing contributes to the sound upon key release.
In conclusion, the KTT Ash Gray and the SP-Star Yanyu differ in their choice of housing materials, resulting in distinct sound profiles. The Ash Gray's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound, while the nylon bottom housing creates a fuller and deeper sound. On the other hand, the Yanyu's combination of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE results in a pleasant sound profile with brightness. Both switches showcase how housing materials can greatly impact the overall typing experience, with top and bottom housings playing different roles in sound production.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Ash Gray switch has an actuation force of 38 grams, providing a medium-light touch required to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the Yanyu switch's actuation force is unknown, making it difficult to directly compare. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Ash Gray requires 53 grams of pressure for a full press, while the Yanyu only requires 43 grams, indicating a lighter touch needed for complete depression.
Considering weight, the Ash Gray switch offers a slightly lighter actuation force, making it suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions where a lighter touch is preferred. This can enhance comfort and reduce finger fatigue. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch's lighter bottom out force may be advantageous for those seeking a more substantial typing experience. The heavier push feel can provide a sense of tactile feedback and satisfaction with each keystroke.
Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences. Those desiring a lighter touch may gravitate towards the Ash Gray switch, as its actuation force is known and leans towards the medium-light range. Meanwhile, the Yanyu switch offers a lighter bottom out force, giving typists a satisfying feel without requiring excessive pressure. Both switches provide unique benefits, catering to different typing styles and personal preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, it is clear that the Ash Gray has a shorter travel distance at 3.5 mm, while the Yanyu has a longer travel distance at 4 mm. The Ash Gray falls on the shorter end of the spectrum, making it a favorable choice for gamers who value faster response times due to its shallower travel. On the other hand, the Yanyu provides a more hearty depth when pressing down on a key, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more pronounced feel. It is important to consider personal preferences and the desired level of responsiveness when selecting between the two switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Ash Gray has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ash Gray for $2.55.
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.
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
When it comes to sound, both the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch have a neutral sound profile. This means that they produce a moderate sound that is suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced, and whether you are using them at home or work. However, the Yanyu switch also has a thocky sound profile, which means it produces a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. This can add an extra level of satisfaction to your typing experience. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps you choose.
In terms of feel, both the Ash Gray and the Yanyu switches offer a gentle typing experience. The Ash Gray switch is described as easy-to-press, offering minimal resistance during key presses. This makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. It also has a mild feel that falls within a safe middle-ground zone that most people will find approachable. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch has a feathery feel, meaning it is exceptionally light to press and requires little exertion from your fingers. This reduces finger fatigue and makes it comfortable for extended gaming, school, or work sessions. It also has a subtle resistance and a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction.
In conclusion, both the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch offer their own unique qualities. The Ash Gray switch provides a tactile response that is substantial yet unobtrusive, combining a light touch with a crisp actuation. It has a neutral sound profile and offers an easy-to-press feel, enhancing the typing experience with its responsive and low-impact feel. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch is perfect for those looking for a delicate typing experience or typing for long periods of time. It has a crisp sound profile with a thocky option, and its feathery feel reduces finger fatigue during extended use. The Yanyu switch also offers a subtle resistance and a polished finish for a smooth and refined typing experience. In summary, while the Ash Gray and Yanyu switches offer different qualities, both can provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch that combines a light touch with a crisp actuation, the KTT Ash Gray would be the ideal choice for you. With a bottom out force of 53 grams, it offers a medium-light feel that is not too overwhelming but still provides a delightful blend of tactile feedback. Additionally, the Ash Gray is described as easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance during key presses and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. It provides an enjoyable and low-impact typing experience. In terms of sound, the Ash Gray is described as neutral, making it suitable for most intents and purposes. On the other hand, if you prefer a more delicate typing experience and a switch that produces a deep and satisfying sound, the SP-Star Yanyu would be a great choice. With a bottom out force of 43 grams, it offers a lighter touch and is perfect for those typing for long periods of time. The Yanyu is described as mild, feathery, subtle, and polished, providing a gentle resistance and reducing finger fatigue, while also having a sound profile that is rich and satisfying. Ultimately, the decision between the KTT Ash Gray tactile switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch depends on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound profile.
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