TTC Gold Red Pro vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red Pro and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the TTC Gold Red Pro and SP-Star Yanyu both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Gold Red Pro is praised for its versatility, providing a seamless typing experience with its ease of press and neutral sound signature. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch is known for its delicacy, perfect for those who type for extended periods and enjoy a crisp sound profile. While the Gold Red Pro is polished, thocky, and low-pitched, the Yanyu is described as feathery, subtle, and polished. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
NPI
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
18.5mm spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Red Pro features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharp, higher-pitched sound profile compared to the Yanyu's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing, which offers a brighter sound. The Gold Red Pro's polycarbonate top housing is also translucent, making it ideal for use with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Yanyu's unique blend of materials provides a pleasant sound that is not particularly sharp.
In terms of bottom housing, the Gold Red Pro utilizes nylon, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. On the other hand, the Yanyu's blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE on the bottom housing creates a sound profile that is also pleasant but leans towards the brighter side. Both switches offer a different sound experience based on their bottom housing material, either producing a duller and rounder sound with nylon or a brighter sound with the blend of materials used in the Yanyu.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the TTC Gold Red Pro and the SP-Star Yanyu, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. While the Gold Red Pro's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, the Yanyu's blend of materials results in a brighter sound that is equally pleasant. The bottom housings of both switches also play a significant role in the overall sound experience, with nylon providing a deeper sound on the Gold Red Pro and the blend of materials on the Yanyu offering a brighter tone. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to individual preferences for sound profiles and aesthetics.
Weight
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has an actuation force of 43 grams, while the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch's actuation force is unknown. On the other hand, the Yanyu has a bottom out force of 43 grams, compared to the Gold Red Pro which has an unavailable bottom out force. In terms of weight, the Yanyu is lighter with a bottom out force of 43 grams, while the Gold Red Pro's weight is unknown. This means that the Yanyu may be preferable for those who like a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming, while the Gold Red Pro may be better suited for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a heavier push feel. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces play a crucial role in determining the typing experience and feel of a switch, so it's important to consider these factors when choosing a switch for your keyboard.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, it is clear that the Gold Red Pro has a shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm while the Yanyu has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. Both of these distances fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with 4.0mm being the most common. Gamers may prefer the Gold Red Pro for its shorter travel distance, which allows for quicker response times. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Yanyu with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific feel that each individual user prefers.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red Pro for $2.90.
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 TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound profile that is both deep and satisfying while being moderate in volume, making it suitable for various settings. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch also provides a thocky sound but with a crisper tone, emphasizing clarity in its sound signature. Both switches are described as neutral, catering to a wide range of users and environments. Ultimately, whether you opt for the Gold Red Pro or the Yanyu, you can expect a pleasant typing experience with a balanced sound profile.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch boasts a polished and silky typing experience with mild and subtle characteristics, ensuring a smooth and refined key press. Similarly, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch offers a mild and subtle typing feel, accompanied by a feathery touch that reduces finger fatigue, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. Both switches are polished, providing reduced friction and smooth key travel for an overall sleek typing experience. Whether you prefer a slightly gentler feel or a feather-light touch, both the Gold Red Pro and Yanyu switches deliver a satisfying tactile experience.
In conclusion, both the TTC Gold Red Pro and SP-Star Yanyu linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Gold Red Pro excels in providing a versatile and neutral sound profile with a polished and refined feel, the Yanyu emphasizes clarity in its sound and offers a slightly lighter touch for extended typing comfort. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and typing feel, but rest assured that you'll get a great typing experience with either option.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, you'll want to consider your specific needs and preferences. If you're looking for a switch that offers a versatile typing experience suitable for a variety of settings, the Gold Red Pro may be the way to go. Its neutral sound profile and adaptable nature make it a great option for both gaming and office work. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter typing experience with a crisp sound profile, the Yanyu switch could be the better choice. Its light actuation force and delicate feel make it a great option for extended typing sessions. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your individual preferences and how you plan to use your keyboard.
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