TTC Gold Silver vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Silver and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Gold Silver and SP-Star Yanyu mechanical keyboard switches, it's essential to note their distinct characteristics. The TTC Gold Silver is renowned for its rapid responsiveness, offering a quick and solid bottom-out with each keystroke. Its smooth journey from press to bottom-out, paired with a resonant sound signature, makes it a top choice for those seeking speed and precision in their typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu is favored for its delicate typing experience, making it ideal for prolonged periods of use. With a crisp sound profile and a blend of materials that ensure a subtle and polished feel, the Yanyu switch appeals to those looking for a more refined typing experience. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you determine the best switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
1.40 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
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
18mm spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Gold Silver and the SP-Star Yanyu switches offer unique characteristics that contribute to the overall sound profile and feel of the switch. The Gold Silver's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and crisper sound profile, ideal for users who prefer a more defined and resonant sound. In contrast, the Yanyu's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing offers a pleasant and brighter sound profile, which may appeal to those looking for a softer and smoother typing experience. Despite their differences, both switches prioritize sound quality and versatility in their housing materials.
In terms of bottom housing, the nylon material used in the Gold Silver switch creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, giving users a more rounded and duller typing experience. On the other hand, the Yanyu's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend bottom housing offers a unique blend that provides a pleasant and bright sound profile, adding a touch of brightness to the typing experience. While both bottom housings aim to enhance the sound and feel of typing, they do so in slightly different ways, catering to different preferences and typing styles.
The division of qualities between the top and bottom housings in each switch allows for a nuanced typing experience that combines the unique characteristics of each material. When pressing down on the switch, users will feel the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. This split in characteristics highlights the attention to detail and sound customization offered by both the Gold Silver and Yanyu switches, showcasing the importance of housing materials in creating a tailored typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, it is clear that the Gold Silver is lighter in terms of actuation force at 45 grams, while the Yanyu is lighter in bottom out force at 43 grams. The Gold Silver lacks information on bottom out force, making it difficult to directly compare the two switches in this aspect. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Yanyu would be the better choice, as it requires less force to both actuate and bottom out. On the other hand, if a stronger push feel is desired for a more substantial typing experience, the Gold Silver may be the better option due to its slightly higher actuation force. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Silver 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 Gold Silver. A 3.5 mm travel distance is on the shorter side of the spectrum, making it a popular choice for gamers who value quick response times. On the other hand, the 4 mm travel distance of the Yanyu may appeal to those who prefer a deeper, more satisfying keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference regarding travel distance and how it affects typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Silver 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 Silver 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 Silver switch offers a thocky and low-pitched typing experience with a neutral overall sound profile. The sound produced is deep, rich, and satisfying, providing a sense of solidity with each keystroke. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu switch also provides a neutral sound profile with a thocky sound signature, contributing to a crisp typing experience. Both switches aim to offer a pleasant auditory experience, suitable for various typing preferences and environments.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Gold Silver switch is described as polished and silky, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. It offers a mild and subtle tactile feel, striking a balance between gentle resistance and light typing. Similarly, the SP-Star Yanyu switch offers a mild and subtle typing feel with a feathery touch, allowing for comfortable and fatigue-free extended typing sessions. Both switches prioritize smoothness and comfort in typing, catering to users who value a gentle and refined tactile experience.
In conclusion, both the TTC Gold Silver and SP-Star Yanyu switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel while also sharing some similarities such as a neutral sound profile. Users can expect a swift and harmonious typing experience with the TTC Gold Silver switch, as well as a delicate and comfortable typing experience with the SP-Star Yanyu switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preferences in sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Gold Silver linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, consider your typing preferences and intended use. If you prioritize rapid responsiveness, a solid bottom-out, and a resonant sound, the TTC Gold Silver may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter typing experience with a crisp sound profile and smooth key travel, the SP-Star Yanyu switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you value speed and precision or a gentle typing feel and reduced finger fatigue. Choose the switch that aligns with your unique typing style and needs for the best overall experience.
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