TTC Gold Pink vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Pink and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options for those seeking a smooth and comfortable typing experience are the TTC Gold Pink and the SP-Star Yanyu. The Gold Pink switch is renowned for its lightness, requiring just 37g of actuation force, making it one of the lightest switches available. Ideal for those who value rapid typing or gaming, these switches provide a fast and effortless keystroke, accompanied by a satisfying clacky sound. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch offers a more delicate typing experience, making it a great choice for individuals who spend long hours typing. With its material blend, the Yanyu switch produces a crisp sound profile. While these generalities provide a glimpse into the distinct characteristics of each switch, it is essential to delve deeper into their specific features to determine the best fit for your individual preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Pink and the SP-Star Yanyu have contrasting housing materials that play a significant role in the overall sound profile of the switches. The Gold Pink features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic that leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Yanyu has a Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing, which offers a pleasant sound profile that is not sharp but slightly brighter.
When it comes to the bottom housing, a similar contrast can be observed. The Gold Pink utilizes a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound when typing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound profile. In contrast, the Yanyu incorporates a unique Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend bottom housing, which also contributes to a pleasant sound profile. However, it is not particularly sharp but slightly brighter, providing a different typing experience from the Gold Pink.
While the top and bottom housings of these switches differ, it is important to note that each housing material brings distinct qualities to the overall sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, depending on the switch and the housing materials used, the typing experience can be significantly affected, resulting in a variation in the sound profile and tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Pink and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switches, it is clear that they both offer a light typing experience. The Gold Pink has an actuation force of 37 grams, while the Yanyu's actuation force is unavailable. However, this suggests that they may have a similar actuation force. Additionally, both switches have a relatively low bottom out force, with the Gold Pink requiring 45 grams and the Yanyu requiring 43 grams. Therefore, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of the pressure needed to trigger a keystroke and the force required for bottoming out. This lighter weight is advantageous for those who prefer using their keyboard for extended periods of time, whether it be for work or gaming. However, for those who desire a more substantial typing feel with a stronger push, they may want to consider options with heavier actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Pink and SP-Star Yanyu linear switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from top to bottom when a key is pressed. Whether you choose the Gold Pink or the Yanyu, you can expect the same amount of travel distance, resulting in a consistent tactile feedback and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Pink has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Pink for $4.28.
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
In terms of sound, the Gold Pink switch is described as having a clacky sound, which adds a satisfying level of feedback to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch is described as having a crisp sound profile, which suggests a more neutral sound with moderate actuation force requirements. While the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, based on the provided descriptions, the Gold Pink switch offers a more distinct and clacky sound compared to the Yanyu switch, which has a more neutral sound profile.
When it comes to feel, both the Gold Pink and Yanyu switches share similar qualities. Both switches are described as having a mild typing experience, offering a gentle and approachable feel for most users. The feathery characteristic of both switches indicates that they require little exertion to press and reduce finger fatigue, making them comfortable for extended typing sessions. Additionally, the subtle nature of both switches suggests a gentle resistance without being too light, maintaining a light typing feel. The polished feature of both switches ensures smooth and refined keystrokes, reducing friction and providing a sleek typing experience. Therefore, in terms of feel, both the Gold Pink and Yanyu switches deliver similar qualities, resulting in a smooth and comfortable typing experience.
Considering all the available information, the Gold Pink switch stands out for its light actuation force of 37g and clacky sound profile, making it a suitable choice for those who value a fast and effortless typing experience. It is ideal for rapid typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch is more suitable for individuals seeking a more delicate typing experience or those who type for long periods of time. It offers a more neutral sound profile and shares similar qualities in terms of feel with the Gold Pink switch. Therefore, if you are looking for a light and lively typing experience, the Gold Pink switch would be the recommended choice. However, if you prefer a more gentle and nuanced typing experience, the Yanyu switch would be a suitable alternative. Both switches provide a comfortable and smooth typing experience, but their sound and actuation force characteristics set them apart.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a light and lively typing experience with a satisfying level of feedback, the TTC Gold Pink linear switch is a great choice. With a bottom out force of 45 grams and an actuation force of 37 grams, these switches are perfect for rapid typing or gaming. They deliver a smooth and seamless keystroke experience, making them effortless to use. 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 a suitable option. With a slightly lighter bottom out force of 43 grams, these switches reduce finger fatigue and strain on your fingers. They also offer a crisp sound profile and a gentle typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on your personal preferences and typing needs.
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