Akko V3 Crystal Pro vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the SP-Star Yanyu mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes evident that both offer unique qualities suited for different preferences. The V3 Crystal Pro stands out for its fully polycarbonate construction, providing a bright and chirpy sound signature along with a silky smooth typing experience, making it a great choice for those seeking a bouncy and polished switch. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch is ideal for individuals looking for a more delicate typing experience or for extended typing sessions, thanks to its crisp sound profile and feather-like feel. While the V3 Crystal Pro is characterized by its bouncy and chirpy nature, the Yanyu switch is described as neutral, mild, thocky, feathery, subtle, and polished. However, let's delve deeper into these switches' characteristics to help you determine the best option for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
48g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Polycarbonate
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
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 housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the SP-Star Yanyu differ significantly in terms of their composition and the resulting sound profiles. The V3 Crystal Pro features a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. This material is ideal for RGB lighting and offers a clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the Yanyu utilizes a unique blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a sound profile that is pleasant and bright without being overly sharp.
While the V3 Crystal Pro's polycarbonate housing material emphasizes clarity and sharpness in sound, the Yanyu's blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE delivers a more balanced and bright sound profile. These differences in housing materials impact the overall typing experience and sound feedback of each keyboard switch. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the V3 Crystal Pro contributes to the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Similarly, the Yanyu's unique blend of materials affects both the keypress and release sounds, offering a distinct typing experience from the V3 Crystal Pro.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro and the SP-Star Yanyu play a crucial role in determining the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. While the V3 Crystal Pro's polycarbonate housing emphasizes sharpness and clarity, the Yanyu's blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE offers a more balanced and pleasant sound. Whether it's the top or bottom housing, each material brings unique qualities to the overall typing experience, providing users with a variety of options to suit their personal preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality housing materials that enhance the overall performance and sound of the keyboard.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, it is evident that they have distinct differences in their actuation forces and bottom out forces. The V3 Crystal Pro has a medium actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, providing a balanced typing experience. On the other hand, the Yanyu boasts a lighter bottom out force of 43 grams, although the actuation force is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Yanyu switch for longer typing sessions or gaming, while individuals looking for a more substantial typing experience may prefer the V3 Crystal Pro. Overall, the V3 Crystal Pro offers a slightly heavier typing feel compared to the Yanyu, making it a suitable choice for those seeking a bit more resistance in their keystrokes.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch is 3.8 mm, while the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. While both switches have a fairly similar travel distance, with the Yanyu being slightly longer, the difference of 0.2 mm might not be significant to most users. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the V3 Crystal Pro being slightly on the shorter end and the Yanyu being more towards the average. If you are someone who prefers a quicker response time, you may lean towards the V3 Crystal Pro, but if you enjoy a slightly deeper press, the Yanyu might be the better option for you. Ultimately, both switches offer a comfortable travel distance for typing or gaming, so you can expect similar results regardless of which one you choose.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Crystal Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Crystal Pro for $3.30.
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, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch has a distinct chirpy quality that sets it apart from other switches. This unique acoustic signature can add a playful element to your typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch offers a more neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users. However, the Yanyu switch also provides a thocky sound, which can be deep and satisfying when pressed. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch is known for its bouncy and polished characteristics. The bouncy feel provides a spring-like feedback, giving the keys a lively sensation when pressed. Additionally, the polished finish offers a smooth and refined typing experience, reducing friction and ensuring smooth key travel. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch offers a mild and feathery typing experience, with a subtle resistance that is comfortable for extended typing sessions. Like the Crystal Pro, the Yanyu switch also boasts a polished finish for a sleek typing feel.
In conclusion, both the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Crystal Pro stands out with its chirpy sound and bouncy, polished feel, while the Yanyu provides a more neutral sound profile and a mild, feathery typing experience. Depending on your preferences, you can achieve different typing sensations with these switches. However, if you prefer a switch with a polished finish for smooth key travel, both options can provide a similar result in that aspect. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and typing feel.
Conclusion
Therefore, when it comes to deciding between the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a bright and chirpy sound signature with a silky smooth typing experience, then the V3 Crystal Pro may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and value a more delicate typing experience with a crisp sound profile, then the Yanyu switch might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your choice should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you're looking for in your mechanical keyboard.
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