Zuoce Lavender vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Lavender and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Zuoce Lavender and SP-Star Yanyu are both linear mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique features for different types of users. The Lavender is praised for its exceptional smoothness and clacky sound signature, providing a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Yanyu is known for its delicate typing experience and crisp sound profile, making it ideal for long typing sessions. While the Lavender is categorized as 'Easy-to-press' and 'Clacky', the Yanyu is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', 'Feathery', 'Subtle', and 'Polished'. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to a variety of 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
48g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Z1 (Ly blend)
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 double-staged spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Zuoce Lavender and SP-Star Yanyu both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Lavender features POM top and bottom housings, which create a deep and muted sound profile. In contrast, the Yanyu utilizes a Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend for both top and bottom housings, resulting in a brighter and more pleasant sound profile. While both switches offer pleasing sound profiles, the difference in materials leads to a noticeable variation in tone.
However, if the top and bottom housings are the same for a given switch, such as in the case of the Lavender, the qualities of the housing material will be evenly distributed throughout the switch. This means that the sound profile will be consistent from top to bottom, offering a uniform experience when typing or gaming. In comparison, the Yanyu's use of different materials for the top and bottom housings allows for a more dynamic sound profile, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, the choice between the Zuoce Lavender and SP-Star Yanyu ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a deeper and more muted sound profile, the Lavender with its POM housings may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a brighter and more pleasant sound, the Yanyu's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend housings may be more to your liking. Both switches offer unique qualities that enhance the overall typing or gaming experience, making them excellent choices for enthusiasts looking to customize their keyboards.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Zuoce Lavender linear switch to the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, it is clear that there are significant differences between the two. The Lavender switch has a medium-light actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, providing a balanced typing experience. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch has a light bottom out force of 43 grams, with the actuation force being unknown. This makes the Yanyu switch lighter overall compared to the Lavender switch. The lighter weight of the Yanyu switch may appeal to those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming, while the Lavender switch might be more suitable for individuals who prefer a slightly heavier and more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, it is evident that the Lavender has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Yanyu has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Lavender's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers seeking quicker response times, while the Yanyu may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial key press. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Lavender leaning towards the shallower end and the Yanyu towards the deeper end. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for typing or gaming experiences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Zuoce Lavender has an MSRP of $2.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lavender for $1.99.
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 Zuoce Lavender linear switch is known for its clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy sound with each keystroke. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch offers a more neutral sound with a slight thocky quality, making it suitable for a variety of environments and preferences. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, but ultimately, they will both provide a satisfying auditory experience, depending on the user's personal preference and setup.
When it comes to feel, the Zuoce Lavender switch is characterized by its easy-to-press nature, offering minimal resistance and effortless typing experience. In contrast, the SP-Star Yanyu switch is described as mild, feathery, subtle, and polished, providing a gentle typing experience with smooth and refined key travel. While the Lavender switch focuses on a light actuation force for comfortable typing, the Yanyu switch offers a balanced feel that caters to a wider range of users, ensuring a comfortable and pleasant typing experience for extended periods.
In conclusion, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch both offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Lavender switch excels in providing a clacky sound and easy-to-press feel, while the Yanyu switch offers a more neutral sound with a variety of gentle typing experiences. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference, with both switches guaranteeing a satisfying typing experience for users, whether they prefer a sharper sound profile with minimal resistance or a balanced sound with a smooth and gentle feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience and sound profile. If you value a smooth and clacky typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force, the Lavender switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a delicate and feathery typing feel with a light bottom out force, the Yanyu switch would cater to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and the specific environment in which you will be using the keyboard. Both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your overall typing experience, so choose wisely based on what matters most to you.
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