TTC Gold Brown vs. SP-Star Yanyu

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the TTC Gold Brown and the SP-Star Yanyu. The Gold Brown switches are well-known for their balanced nature, offering a slight but satisfying bump when pressed, coupled with a moderate weightiness. These switches have a rounded sound profile that is softer than most switches while not being completely silent. On the other hand, the Yanyu switches are favored by those seeking a more delicate typing experience or those who spend long periods typing. These switches provide a crisp sound profile and are categorized as having a "thocky" and "feathery" feel. While these general descriptions may assist in your decision-making process, let's delve deeper into the specifics of each switch to help you determine the best fit for your needs.

By the numbers

TTC Gold Brown Tactile

SP-Star Yanyu Linear

$5.00

$3.28 per 10

$5.80

$5.40 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials used in the TTC Gold Brown and the SP-Star Yanyu switches exhibit significant differences in their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Gold Brown features a polycarbonate top housing, which lends itself to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances clarity and resonance. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches using RGB lighting. In contrast, the Yanyu utilizes a Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing that produces a pleasant sound profile without sharpness, leaning more towards the brighter side.

Similarly, the bottom housing materials differ between the Gold Brown and the Yanyu switches. The Gold Brown employs a nylon bottom housing, known as a classic switch housing material. Typing on switches with nylon housing creates a deeper and fuller sound due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound and generates a duller, rounder tone. The Yanyu, on the other hand, combines Polymer nylon and UHMWPE in its bottom housing, resulting in a unique blend that offers a pleasant sound profile. While not particularly sharp, this blend tends to lean towards the brighter side, contributing to a distinct auditory experience.

Notably, the choice of housing material in a switch impacts not only the sound but also the feel. When pressing down on a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing come into play. Therefore, switches with nylon bottom housing, such as the Gold Brown, will provide a different tactile experience and produce a distinct bottom-out sound. Conversely, the top housing material, such as polycarbonate in the Gold Brown, significantly influences the sound produced when releasing a key. By understanding the characteristics of each housing material, users can fine-tune their switch selection based on the desired sound and feel.

Weight

When comparing the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, there are noticeable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Gold Brown has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, making it a medium switch. On the other hand, the actuation force of the Yanyu switch is unavailable, but it has a lighter bottom out force of 43 grams.

Considering weight, some individuals prefer a lighter actuation force as it allows for longer periods of comfortable typing, which is ideal for situations like using a keyboard at work or engaging in extended gaming sessions. This lighter actuation force can help reduce fatigue and strain on the fingers. In contrast, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for switches with heavier forces. These individuals would appreciate the stronger push feel provided by switches like the Gold Brown, which require more force to trigger a keystroke.

While the specific actuation force of the Yanyu switch is unknown, it is evident that it has a lighter bottom out force compared to the Gold Brown. This implies that the Yanyu switch is generally lighter overall. Both switches offer distinct advantages depending on personal preferences and specific use cases. If an individual seeks a medium switch with a slightly heavier typing experience, the Gold Brown would be a suitable choice. If a lighter keystroke is preferred, the Yanyu switch with its lighter bottom out force would be the better option. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to individual preferences and requirements.

Travel distance

The TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience a consistent 4 mm of travel. The similarity in travel distance ensures that both switches offer a comparable tactile feedback and typing experience. Therefore, regardless of whether you choose the TTC Gold Brown or the SP-Star Yanyu, you can expect to achieve similar results in terms of the switch's travel distance.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The TTC Gold Brown tactile switch is best known for its balanced qualities. When it comes to sound, the Gold Brown switch offers a rounded sound profile that is generally softer than most switches without being completely silent. This neutral sound profile makes it suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work. The Yanyu linear switch, on the other hand, has a crisp sound profile. It falls under the category of a thocky switch, which means it produces a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed, similar to a deep "thud" or a soft "knock". The Yanyu switch, therefore, provides a distinct sound experience compared to the Gold Brown.

Moving on to feel, the Gold Brown switch offers a mild and gentle typing experience. It falls within a safe, middle-ground zone in terms of its tactile characteristics. The switch is described as buttery, meaning it provides a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. The Gold Brown switch also falls under the category of accented switches, as it provides a medium level of tactility that is prominent without being overwhelming or too subtle. Additionally, the switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish for a sleek typing experience. This is achieved through the use of high-quality materials and factory lubing, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.

Similarly, the Yanyu linear switch also offers a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users. It falls within a safe, middle-ground zone, just like the Gold Brown switch. The Yanyu switch is described as feathery, meaning it is exceptionally light to press and requires little exertion from your fingers. This light actuation force reduces finger fatigue, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. The switch is also described as subtle, offering gentle resistance without being too feather-light, and producing a sound signature that is not resonant. This makes it suitable for shared spaces. Again, the Yanyu switch is mentioned as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish for a sleek typing experience.

Taking all the available information into account, the Gold Brown and Yanyu switches have some similarities and some differences. In terms of sound, both switches fall under the category of neutral switches, meaning they have a moderate sound profile. However, the Gold Brown switch has a rounded and softer sound profile, while the Yanyu switch has a distinct thocky sound. In terms of feel, both switches fall under the category of mild switches, providing a gentle typing experience. Both switches are also described as polished, ensuring smooth and refined keystrokes. However, the Gold Brown switch is highlighted for its buttery and accented qualities, whereas the Yanyu switch is highlighted for its feathery and subtle characteristics. Overall, both switches offer a balanced and comfortable typing experience, catering to different preferences and requirements.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a balanced typing experience with a slight, satisfying bump and a moderate weightiness, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch is a great choice. These switches have a rounded sound profile that is softer than most switches without being completely silent. On the other hand, if you prefer a more delicate typing experience or anticipate typing for long periods of time, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch is perfect for you. The Yanyu's material blend gives it a crisp sound profile. Both switches have a neutral sound and feel, making them suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use them at home or work. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal preference for either a balanced tactile switch or a smooth linear switch.

Mentioned in this article

TTC Gold Brown Tactile

$5.00

$3.28 per 10

Learn more

SP-Star Yanyu Linear

$5.80

$5.40 per 10

Learn more