Bsun Guyu vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the Bsun Guyu 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 BSUN Guyu and SP-Star Yanyu linear switches offer distinct features to cater to different preferences. The BSUN Guyu is revered for its unique auditory experience, with all-POM housings enhancing acoustics and a long pole stem creating a bright bottom-out sound. The medium weight and high-grade UPE stem contribute to smooth keystrokes, making typing sessions effortless and resonant. In contrast, the SP-Star Yanyu switches provide a delicate typing experience suitable for prolonged use, with a crisp sound profile due to the material blend. While the Guyu is described as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', and 'Silky', the Yanyu is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Feathery'. 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
21mm spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Guyu and SP-Star Yanyu switches both contribute to creating a unique sound profile. While the Guyu utilizes POM for both the top and bottom housing, the Yanyu features a blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE. The POM housings of the Guyu result in a deeper and relatively muted sound, whereas the Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend of the Yanyu produce a pleasant sound profile that leans towards the brighter side. Despite the difference in materials, both switches offer a pleasing and unique sound experience.
In terms of sound, the housing materials of the Bsun Guyu and SP-Star Yanyu switches have distinct characteristics. The POM construction of the Guyu creates a sound that is deeper and more muted, while the Yanyu's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend produces a brighter sound profile. The choice of housing material in each switch plays a significant role in defining the overall sound quality and experience of using the switch. Users can expect a different auditory experience based on the housing materials used in these two switches.
When comparing the bottom and top housing materials of the Bsun Guyu and SP-Star Yanyu switches, it is evident that they contribute differently to the overall sound and feel of the switch. The qualities of the housing material are split between the top and bottom housing, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affecting the sound when releasing a key. This division of qualities allows for a dynamic and unique typing experience with each switch, as users can feel and hear the influence of both the top and bottom housing materials.
Weight
The Bsun Guyu linear switch has a slightly higher actuation force of 45 grams compared to the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Yanyu has a lighter 43 grams compared to the Guyu's 50 grams. Both switches can be considered light in terms of actuation force, making them suitable for extended typing sessions. However, if someone prefers a slightly heavier typing experience, they may lean towards the Guyu switch due to its higher bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for either a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Bsun Guyu linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, we see that the Guyu has a travel distance of 3.6 mm while the Yanyu has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Guyu the shorter option and the Yanyu the longer option. The 0.4 mm difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the typing experience significantly. The Guyu's shorter travel distance may appeal to those looking for a faster response time, such as gamers, while the Yanyu's longer travel distance may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking for.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Guyu has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Guyu for $3.70.
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 BSUN Guyu linear switch is renowned for its clacky sound profile, offering a sharp and snappy auditory experience that is crisp, bright, and percussive due to its all-POM housings and long pole stem. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch provides a more neutral sound with a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. Additionally, the Yanyu switch is also described as thocky, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. When comparing the two, the Guyu offers a more distinctive and vibrant sound signature, while the Yanyu provides a versatile and comfortable sound profile that caters to a broader audience.
In terms of feel, the BSUN Guyu linear switch is praised for its creamy and frictionless typing experience, offering a smooth and effortless glide with minimal resistance. The switch is also described as polished and snappy, providing a refined and responsive feel that enhances the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch is characterized by a mild and feathery typing feel, offering a gentle and light touch that reduces finger fatigue and strain. The Yanyu switch is also described as subtle and polished, providing a smooth and sleek typing experience that is suitable for shared spaces. When comparing the two switches, the Guyu delivers a more luxurious and responsive typing feel, while the Yanyu offers a comfortable and gentle touch that is ideal for extended typing sessions.
Overall, the BSUN Guyu linear switch stands out for its distinctive clacky sound profile and creamy, frictionless feel, creating a unique typing experience that is both vibrant and effortless. In contrast, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch offers a more versatile sound profile and a mild, feathery feel that caters to a wider range of users and preferences. Depending on personal preferences and typing style, both switches provide high-quality options with their own unique qualities, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for newcomers and enthusiasts alike with similar results in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the BSUN Guyu linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, consider your preference for sound and feel. If you enjoy a brighter, crisper bottom-out sound with a medium weight and super-smooth keystrokes, the Guyu switch with its unique auditory experience may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a delicate typing experience with a crisp sound profile and a lighter actuation force for reduced finger fatigue during long typing sessions, the Yanyu switch is a suitable option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the sound and feel that aligns best with your typing preferences and needs.
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