Kailh Box Jade vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box Jade 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 Kailh Box Jade and the SP-Star Yanyu. The Box Jades are ideal if you're seeking a medium-heavy typing experience with a satisfying clicky sound profile and noticeable tactility. These switches are loved for their crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps when typing on them. On the other hand, the Yanyu switches are perfect for individuals who prefer a more delicate typing experience or find themselves typing for long periods of time. Their material blend gives them a crisp sound profile, and they are known for their neutral feel and mild thocky sensation. While these general descriptions provide a good sense of what each switch offers, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
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
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Kailh Box Jade and the SP-Star Yanyu switches differ in their housing materials, leading to distinct sound profiles. The Box Jade features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which enhances clarity and resonance. Moreover, its translucent nature makes it ideal for RGB lighting. In contrast, the Yanyu switch's top housing is made of a unique blend of polymer nylon and UHMWPE. This blend offers a pleasant sound profile that leans towards brightness rather than sharpness.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Box Jade utilizes nylon, a classic switch housing material. Typing on a switch with a nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch combines polymer nylon and UHMWPE in its bottom housing, again providing a unique sound profile. This blend offers a pleasant sound experience that is not particularly sharp but slightly brighter.
It is important to note that the qualities brought by the top and bottom housing materials in a switch are split between each end. When pressing down on either switch, the bottom housing's qualities are felt, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, when releasing a key, the sound and feel are primarily influenced by the top housing. Therefore, while the specific materials may differ, both the Kailh Box Jade and the SP-Star Yanyu switches offer distinct sound profiles through the combination of their top and bottom housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, it is apparent that there are significant differences. The Box Jade has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, placing it in the medium range. On the other hand, information regarding the actuation force of the Yanyu is unavailable, making it difficult to determine its exact force requirement. However, the Yanyu has a bottom out force of 43 grams, which is relatively light.
Considering weight, the lighter force of the Yanyu offers advantages for individuals who prefer a swift and effortless typing experience. This is particularly desirable for extended periods of typing, making it suitable for professional use or lengthy gaming sessions. In contrast, the Box Jade's heavier actuation and bottom out forces cater to those who seek a more substantial push feel during typing. This provides a sense of satisfaction and increased tactile feedback, making it appealing to those who enjoy a more pronounced keystroke.
While the specific actuation force of the Yanyu remains unknown, it is evident that the Box Jade requires a comparatively heavier force for triggering keystrokes. This distinction is essential in determining the desired typing experience and whether a lighter or stronger push feel is preferred. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on personal preference and the specific requirements of the user.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box Jade clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Yanyu switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Box Jade switch. While 4.0mm is the more traditional travel distance and provides a deeper key press, the Box Jade's 3.6mm is a shorter option that appeals to gamers looking for faster response times. The shorter travel distance of the Box Jade allows for quicker key presses, which can be advantageous in gaming situations. However, some users may find the shorter travel distance to feel too abrupt. In contrast, the longer travel distance of the Yanyu switch may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial key press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference, with the Box Jade offering a shorter, more responsive experience, and the Yanyu providing a longer, deeper key press.
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 Kailh Box Jade comes in at $5.50 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
The Kailh Box Jade clicky switch is best known for its medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and tactility. The sound of the Box Jade is high-pitched, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. This switch also has a crunchy sound profile, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. The feel of the Box Jade is invigorating, offering pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel for an immersive typing sensation. The tactile bumps are described as accented, providing a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle.
On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch is best suited for those looking for a more delicate typing experience or typing for long periods of time. The sound profile of the Yanyu is described as neutral, with a moderate actuation force requirement. The switch produces a crisp sound that is neither too high-pitched nor bassy. The feel of the Yanyu is mild, offering a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. It is approachable to most users, with qualities that stand in a safe, middle-ground zone. The Yanyu switch is also described as feathery, exceptionally light to press, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions.
In conclusion, the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch is best suited for those who prefer a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and invigorating feel. The sound profile is high-pitched and crunchy, while the feel is accented and invigorating. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch is ideal for those seeking a delicate typing experience or typing for long periods of time. The sound profile is neutral and crisp, while the feel is mild and feathery. Depending on your preference, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different typing preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and pronounced tactility, then the Kailh Box Jade switch would be the perfect choice for you. These switches have a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a satisfying resistance while typing. The crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps add to the immersive typing sensation. On the other hand, if you prefer a more delicate typing experience or plan to type for long periods of time, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch would be more suitable. With a bottom out force of 43 grams, these switches offer a lighter touch that reduces finger fatigue and is comfortable for extended typing sessions. The Yanyu also has a crisp sound profile with a thocky sound when pressed and released. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the level of tactility and resistance you desire as well as your typing preferences.
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