KTT F2 vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the KTT F2 and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT F2 and the SP-Star Yanyu stand out as popular options, both being linear switches. The KTT F2 switches are favored for their distinct hollow sound signature, medium-light weightiness, and lightly textured feel with each keystroke, providing a comfortable and tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu switches are known for offering a delicate typing experience with a crisp sound profile, making them ideal for extended typing sessions. While the F2 is characterized as 'Feathery', 'Mild', 'Neutral', 'Subdued', and 'Subtle', the Yanyu is described as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', 'Feathery', 'Subtle', and 'Polished'. Each switch has its own unique characteristics and benefits, catering to different preferences and typing styles. 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
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Polycarbonate
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
The housing materials of the KTT F2 and the SP-Star Yanyu differ significantly in terms of composition and resulting sound profile. The F2 utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiff nature, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the Yanyu features a unique blend of polymer nylon and UHMWPE for its top and bottom housing, resulting in a sound profile that is described as pleasant, with a slightly brighter tone. While both switches offer distinct sound characteristics, the F2's polycarbonate housing leans towards a sharper and crisper sound compared to the Yanyu's polymer blend housing.
Aesthetically, the housing materials of the F2 and Yanyu also differ in terms of transparency and visual appeal. The polycarbonate top housing of the F2 is translucent, making it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting as the translucency allows for the illumination to shine through. In comparison, the polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend used in the Yanyu's top housing is not transparent, offering a more opaque and solid appearance. This distinction in transparency may influence the overall look of the switches when used in keyboards, especially for those who prioritize the visual aspect of their mechanical keyboards.
Furthermore, the impact of the housing materials on the overall sound and feel of the switches varies between the top and bottom housing. The bottom housing plays a significant role in determining the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing has more influence on the sound produced when a key is released. As such, the differences in housing materials between the F2 and Yanyu can lead to distinct typing experiences for users, with the F2 offering a sharper and crisper sound profile compared to the Yanyu, which leans towards a brighter and more pleasant tone in its sound characteristics.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT F2 linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, it is apparent that the F2 is lighter in terms of actuation force at 43 grams compared to the Yanyu which does not have a specified actuation force. However, when looking at the bottom out force, the Yanyu is lighter at 43 grams while the F2 has a bottom out force of 53 grams. This makes the Yanyu a lighter option overall. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Yanyu may be the better choice due to its lower bottom out force. On the other hand, the F2 may appeal to those who prefer a slightly heavier actuation force for a more substantial feel while typing. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The KTT F2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Yanyu has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the F2. The difference may not seem significant, but it can be noticeable to those who are sensitive to the feel of the switch. The F2's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for a faster response time, while the Yanyu's longer travel distance may be preferred by those who prefer a more substantial keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference in terms of key feel and responsiveness.
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 KTT F2 comes in at $3.90 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
When it comes to sound, the KTT F2 linear switch offers a more subdued and neutral sound profile, creating a quieter typing experience suitable for various environments. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu switch provides a thocky sound, known for its deep and satisfying tones when pressed. Both switches cater to different preferences in sound, with the F2 being more neutral and subtle while the Yanyu offering a richer and more pronounced sound.
Moving on to feel, the KTT F2 switch is recognized for its feathery and mild typing experience, providing a comfortable and light touch that reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the lightly textured feel adds a tactile nuance to each keystroke. Similarly, the SP-Star Yanyu switch also offers a mild and comfortable typing experience, making it approachable to most users. With both switches featuring a subtle typing feel and accommodating actuation force, users can expect a pleasant typing experience regardless of their choice.
In conclusion, while the KTT F2 and SP-Star Yanyu linear switches have some distinct differences in sound and feel, they ultimately both provide a comfortable and versatile typing experience. Whether you prefer a more subdued and neutral sound profile with a tactile feel (F2) or a thocky sound with a gentle typing experience (Yanyu), you can achieve satisfying results with either switch. Remember that individual preferences play a significant role in choosing the right switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the KTT F2 linear switch or the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing habits. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force with a lightly textured feel and a distinct hollow sound signature, the F2 is a great choice for a comfortable typing experience with a subtle sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force with a crisp sound profile and a more delicate typing experience perfect for long typing sessions, the Yanyu may be the better option for you. Both switches offer a neutral sound profile and a variety of feels, so it's important to consider what qualities are most important to you in a keyboard switch before making your decision. Ultimately, your choice between the KTT F2 and the SP-Star Yanyu will depend on your individual preferences and typing needs.
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