Keygeek Keygeek Raw vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Keygeek Raw and SP-Star Yanyu mechanical keyboard switches, it is evident that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Keygeek Raw stands out for its blend of Nylon and UMPE in the top housing, combined with UMPE and Silicon in the bottom, resulting in a creamy yet lightweight switch that provides a slightly textured feel - ideal for enthusiasts who prefer to hand-lube their switches. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch is praised for its delicate typing experience, perfect for extended typing sessions, and its crisp sound profile. While the Keygeek Raw is categorized as textured, mild, and neutral, the Yanyu is classified as neutral, mild, thocky, feathery, subtle, and polished. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different user preferences. 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
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
57.5g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon & UPE blend
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
UMPE & Si blend
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Keygeek Raw and SP-Star Yanyu switches both incorporate a Nylon blend in the top housing, albeit with different additional materials. The Keygeek Raw features a blend of Nylon and UPE, while the Yanyu uses Polymer nylon and UHMWPE. Both blends aim to offer a pleasant sound profile, with the Yanyu described as being on the brighter side, but not particularly sharp. This suggests that both switches prioritize a smooth and enjoyable typing experience.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Keygeek Raw utilizes a blend of UMPE and Si, while the Yanyu incorporates Polymer nylon and UHMWPE. The unique blends in both switches aim to impact the sound and feel of the switch differently. The qualities of the bottom housing are felt more prominently during bottom-out, influencing the overall sound and feel of the switch. Meanwhile, the materials of the top housing play a role in the sound produced when releasing a key, adding to the overall typing experience.
While there are differences in the specific materials used in the top and bottom housings of the Keygeek Raw and SP-Star Yanyu switches, they both prioritize a pleasant sound profile and typing experience. The unique blends in each switch are designed to enhance the overall feel and acoustics of typing. Whether it's the Nylon and UPE blend of the Keygeek Raw or the Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend of the Yanyu, users can expect a smooth and enjoyable typing experience with either switch.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, it is clear that the Yanyu is the lighter option with a bottom out force of 43 grams, while the Keygeek Raw is on the heavier side with a bottom out force of 57.5 grams. Since the actuation force for both switches is unknown, we cannot directly compare them in this aspect. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Yanyu would be the better choice, as it requires less force to bottom out. On the other hand, the Keygeek Raw would be more suitable for individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel due to its higher bottom out force. Ultimately, the weight of the switch plays a significant role in determining the typing experience, as lighter switches allow for longer typing sessions while heavier switches provide a more pronounced tactile feedback.
Travel distance
The Keygeek Raw linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, which is shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch. The Keygeek Raw offers a quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a favored choice among gamers. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch provides a bit more depth with its longer travel distance, which some users may prefer for a more tactile feel. Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preference for either a quicker response or a more substantial key press feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Keygeek Keygeek Raw has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keygeek Raw for $3.51.
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, both the Keygeek Raw and the SP-Star Yanyu switches are described as having a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for a wide range of users and environments. However, the Yanyu switch also has a "thocky" characteristic, which produces a deep and satisfying sound when pressed and released. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Keygeek Raw switch is known for its slightly textured feel, giving it a unique tactile experience. It is described as mild and subtle, offering a gentle resistance and light typing feel that is suitable for shared spaces. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch is also categorized as mild and subtle, with the added feature of being feathery, meaning it is exceptionally light to press and reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Yanyu switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience due to materials used or factory lubing.
Overall, both the Keygeek Raw and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switches offer a unique and satisfying typing experience, each with its own distinctive qualities. While the Keygeek Raw switch provides a slightly textured feel and neutral sound profile, the Yanyu switch adds a thocky sound profile and feathery feel to the mix. Depending on your preferences and typing needs, either of these switches would be a solid choice, ensuring a pleasant and efficient typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, material blend, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a creamy yet lightweight switch material blend, the Keygeek Raw may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a crisp sound profile, and a more delicate typing experience, the Yanyu switch could be a better fit. Ultimately, your personal preferences and typing style will determine which switch suits you best.
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