Kailh Box Royal vs. SP-Star Yanyu

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Box Royal and the SP-Star Yanyu offer different experiences for users. The Box Royal is a tactile switch that is known for its sharp, binary tactility. If you prefer a nearly aggressive tactile feel while typing, these switches are perfect for you. Additionally, they have a relatively higher pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Yanyu is a linear switch that provides a more delicate typing experience. It is particularly suitable for those who spend long periods typing. The Yanyu's material blend gives it a crisp sound profile, which adds to its appeal. With these general points in mind, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences and typing style.

By the numbers

Kailh Box Royal Tactile

SP-Star Yanyu Linear

$6.25 per 10

$5.80

$5.40 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

Comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box Royal and the SP-Star Yanyu, there are some notable differences. The Box Royal uses a nylon top housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Yanyu utilizes a unique blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE for its top housing. This blend offers a sound profile that is pleasant, leaning towards the brighter side. So, while both housings provide distinct sound characteristics, the Box Royal's nylon top housing might create a duller and rounder sound, while the Yanyu's blend may result in a slightly sharper and brighter sound.

Moving on to the bottom housing, the Box Royal once again relies on a nylon material, contributing to its deeper and fuller sound when typing. On the other hand, the Yanyu employs a blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE for its bottom housing. Although this blend is described as incredibly unique, there is no specific information about its impact on the overall sound profile. Therefore, it is unclear how the Yanyu's bottom housing differs from the Box Royal's nylon bottom housing in terms of sound. However, it is worth noting that the bottom housing has a significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel of a switch, so variations in housing materials could potentially affect the typing experience differently.

In conclusion, while the Box Royal and the Yanyu have some similarities in terms of using nylon as their housing material, they also feature distinct differences. The Yanyu's blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE, both in the top and the bottom housing, provides a unique sound profile that is described as pleasant but slightly brighter. On the other hand, the Box Royal's nylon housing materials elicit a deeper and fuller sound, creating a duller and rounder profile. Although there isn't detailed information about the specific impact of the Yanyu's housing materials, it can be inferred that the top and bottom housing materials play a significant role in the overall sound and feel of both switches.

Weight

When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, some similarities and differences can be observed. Starting with the actuation force, the Kailh Box Royal requires 45 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, while the exact force requirement for the Yanyu switch is unknown. In terms of bottom out force, the Box Royal has a heavier force of 70 grams, whereas the Yanyu has a lighter force of 43 grams.

Considering weight as a factor, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Yanyu switch due to its lower bottom out force. This lighter force can allow for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue or strain on the fingers. On the other hand, individuals who desire a more substantial typing feel might opt for the Kailh Box Royal switch, with its heavier bottom out force providing a more satisfying push when pressing the keys.

While the Yanyu switch's actuation force is not specified, if it happens to be the same as the Box Royal's 45 grams, users can expect a similar triggering experience with both switches. However, the Box Royal still retains its heavier bottom out force, offering that extra level of tactile feedback and resistance.

Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences. If a lighter typing experience is desired, the Yanyu switch with its lower bottom out force may be preferable. Conversely, for those seeking a more substantial feel and a satisfying push while typing, the Kailh Box Royal switch with its heavier bottom out force could be the ideal choice.

Travel distance

The Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch both have different travel distances. The Box Royal has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Yanyu has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of traditional travel distances, the Yanyu falls within the more common range of 4.0 mm, while the Box Royal is slightly shorter at 3.6 mm. Gamers who prioritize faster response times often prefer switches with shorter travel distances, making the Box Royal a suitable choice for them. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial key press may find the Yanyu's longer travel distance of 4 mm to be more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences and the desired level of responsiveness.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Kailh Box Royal switch has a relatively higher-pitched sound profile. This means that when you press the keys, you'll hear a sharp and crisp sound. If you prefer a sound that is not rich or bassy, the Box Royal is a good choice. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu switch has a more neutral sound profile. It doesn't have an overly high or low pitch, making it suitable for most purposes. In addition, the Yanyu switch is described as "thocky," which means it produces a deep and satisfying sound similar to a soft thud or knock. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

When it comes to feel, the Kailh Box Royal switch offers a sharp tactile experience. This means that the tactile bump you feel when pressing the keys is intense and distinct. The Box Royal switch provides a strong and crisp feedback with each keypress. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu switch has a milder feel. It offers a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The Yanyu switch falls into a safe middle-ground zone, providing an approachable feel for most users. Additionally, the Yanyu switch has a feathery quality, meaning it is exceptionally light to press and requires little exertion from your fingers. This reduces finger fatigue and makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions.

In conclusion, the Kailh Box Royal switch is known for its aggressive and sharp tactility, as well as a relatively higher-pitched sound profile. It offers an intense tactile feedback that is perfect for those who prefer a more tactile and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu switch provides a more delicate and mild typing experience, with a neutral sound profile that falls within a safe middle-ground zone. Its feathery quality and approachable feel make it suitable for those typing for long periods of time or looking for a comfortable typing experience. Both switches have their own unique qualities and are suitable for different preferences, so it ultimately depends on what you're looking for in a mechanical keyboard switch. However, if you prefer a similar level of tactility and sound in both switches, the Box Royal provides a sharp tactility and higher-pitched sound, while the Yanyu offers a milder and more neutral experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you're someone who prefers a strong and aggressive tactile feedback, along with a higher pitched sound profile, then the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch would be the perfect choice for you. These switches are known for their sharp, binary tactility and medium-heavy bottom out force. On the other hand, if you're looking for a more delicate typing experience or if you tend to type for long periods of time, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch would be more suitable. With its lighter bottom out force and blend of materials, the Yanyu offers a more mild and feathery feel, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Yanyu produces a crisp and thocky sound profile, making it great for both beginners and advanced users. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on your personal preference for tactility, sound, and typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh Box Royal Tactile

$6.25 per 10

Learn more

SP-Star Yanyu Linear

$5.80

$5.40 per 10

Learn more