Bsun Pine vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the Bsun Pine and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Pine tactile switch to the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, it is evident that both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Bsun Pine switches are renowned for their sharp tactile bump and fast action, providing a direct and no-nonsense typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu switches are known for their delicate typing feel and crisp sound profile, making them ideal for extended typing sessions. While the Pine offers an invigorating and snappy typing experience, the Yanyu provides a more subtle and polished feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Pine and the SP-Star Yanyu, we can see that they both offer unique qualities that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The Pine utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharp, high-pitched sound profile that is especially suitable for RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Yanyu features a Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing, which provides a more pleasant and brighter sound profile. While both materials offer distinct sound characteristics, they cater to different preferences in terms of sound sharpness and brightness.
When it comes to the bottom housing materials, the Pine utilizes nylon, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This creates a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper sound profile of the polycarbonate top housing. In comparison, the Yanyu combines Polymer nylon and UHMWPE in its bottom housing, resulting in a unique blend that offers a pleasant and bright sound profile. While both bottom housing materials contribute to the overall typing experience, their softer or firmer compositions impact the sound and feel of the switch differently.
Overall, while the Pine and Yanyu switches have different top and bottom housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles, they both aim to provide a satisfying typing experience. The distinct qualities of the polycarbonate and nylon materials in the Pine switch create a clear and resonant sound profile, while the unique blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE in the Yanyu switch offers a pleasant and bright sound profile. Whether you prefer a sharper, high-pitched sound or a brighter and more gentle sound, both switches offer quality housing materials that cater to various sound preferences.
Weight
The Bsun Pine tactile switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Bsun Pine has a medium-heavy actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, while the SP-Star Yanyu has a light bottom out force of 43 grams with the actuation force being unknown. This means that the Pine switch requires a slightly heavier touch to register a keystroke compared to the Yanyu switch. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods may lean towards the Yanyu switch, whereas those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing may opt for the Pine switch. In terms of weight, the Yanyu switch is lighter than the Pine switch, which may be preferred by users looking for a smoother typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Bsun Pine tactile switch is 3.4 mm, which makes it shorter than the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Pine offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers looking for fast inputs. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch provides a more pronounced keypress feel with its longer travel distance, appealing to those who prefer a deeper keystroke experience. Both switches have their own advantages depending on personal preference, with the Pine being ideal for speed and the Yanyu for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual typing style and preference for travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Pine has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $3.70.
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
The BSUN Pine tactile switch is known for its sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out, providing direct and no-nonsense tactility. This results in a distinct typing experience with clear-cut feedback and fast action. In terms of sound, the Pine switch does not have a specific descriptor provided, so it may offer a unique sound profile that complements its tactile features.
On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch is designed for a more delicate typing experience, making it ideal for extended typing sessions. The Yanyu switch has a material blend that gives it a crisp sound profile, with descriptors such as neutral and thocky. The neutral sound profile indicates moderate actuation force requirement and sound level, suitable for various purposes.
When it comes to feel, the Pine switch is described as accented, invigorating, sharp, and snappy, providing a tactile typing sensation that is both responsive and immersive. In contrast, the Yanyu switch is described as mild, feathery, subtle, and polished, offering a gentle typing experience with reduced finger strain and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the BSUN Pine tactile switch offers a sharp, direct, and fast typing experience with a unique sound profile, while the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch provides a delicate and comfortable typing feel with a crisp sound profile. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Pine switch focusing on sharp tactility and fast action, and the Yanyu switch prioritizing comfort and gentle typing experience. Depending on your typing style and preference for sound and feel, you can achieve optimal results with either switch.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the BSUN Pine tactile switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out, along with a medium-heavy bottom out force, then the Pine switch would be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a more delicate typing experience, the Yanyu switch with its crisp sound profile and light feel would be more suitable. Consider your typing habits, sound preferences, and desired level of tactility to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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