KTT Lightning vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the KTT Lightning and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that often come to mind are the KTT Lightning and the SP-Star Yanyu. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences and needs. The KTT Lightning is renowned for its exceptional speed, making it an excellent choice for gamers who rely on split-second reactions. With its clacky and high-pitched sound profile, typing on the Lightning provides a satisfying tactile experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu is a switch that prioritizes a delicate typing experience and long typing sessions. Its material blend delivers a crisp sound profile, and its neutral and subtle characteristics make it suitable for varied usage scenarios. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you make an informed decision on the best switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Lightning and the SP-Star Yanyu differ significantly in their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Lightning utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which produces a clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the Yanyu features a polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing, resulting in a sound profile that is not particularly sharp but leans towards the brighter side. While both materials offer unique characteristics, their sound profiles differ in terms of sharpness and brightness.
Where the top housings differ, the bottom housings of the Lightning and the Yanyu continue to showcase contrasting qualities. The Lightning's nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to nylon's ability to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics. On the other hand, the Yanyu's polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend bottom housing provides a sound profile that is pleasant but not particularly sharp, leaning towards a brighter tone. Thus, the housing materials continue to diverge in their impact on the overall sound produced by the switches.
Considering the split between top and bottom housing materials, the KTT Lightning and the SP-Star Yanyu showcase distinct characteristics in how they influence the sound profile. When pressing down on the switches, the qualities of the bottom housing become more prominent, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound generated when releasing a key. Therefore, while the housing materials may differ between the two switches, their individual contributions to the overall sound profile remain noticeable and distinct.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, there are a few key differences to note. The Lightning switch has an actuation force of 43 grams, while the Yanyu's actuation force is currently unknown. However, both switches have a bottom out force of 43 grams, which means they require the same amount of force to fully depress the key.
In terms of weight, the Lightning switch is lighter overall, with a bottom out force of 50 grams. This lighter weight may appeal to individuals who prefer a more effortless typing experience, as it allows them to type for longer durations without strain. This feature makes the Lightning switch a suitable choice for those who bring their keyboard to work or engage in long gaming sessions.
On the other hand, the Yanyu switch's actuation force remains unknown, making it difficult to directly compare to the Lightning switch. However, if the actuation force of the Yanyu switch is also light or similar to the Lightning switch, users can expect similar results in terms of ease of keystrokes and extended typing periods.
Ultimately, the decision between the KTT Lightning and SP-Star Yanyu linear switches may come down to personal preference. Some individuals may prefer the tactile feedback and stronger push feel associated with heavier forces, while others may prioritize a lighter typing experience for increased comfort. It is important to consider these factors when selecting switches to ensure the best fit for one's typing style and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When it comes to comparing the travel distance of the KTT Lightning linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, there is a notable difference between the two. The Lightning has a travel distance of 3 mm, which is shorter compared to the Yanyu's travel distance of 4 mm. A travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered more traditional, while 3.0 mm is shallower, making it a more recent preference for some users. Gamers, in particular, tend to favor shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, the Lightning switch would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, for those who prefer a more substantial key press, the Yanyu's longer travel distance may be more appealing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The KTT Lightning comes in at $3.41 per 10 switches.
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
When it comes to sound, the KTT Lightning linear switch has a clacky sound profile. This means that when the switch is pressed, it produces a sharp and snappy sound that can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. Additionally, the Lightning switch is high-pitched, which gives it a sharp and crisp sound. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch has a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate sound that is suitable for most purposes. It is neither too loud nor too soft, making it a versatile option for both beginners and advanced users. The Yanyu switch also has the potential for a thocky sound profile, which produces a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when the key is pressed and released. However, it should be noted that the sound of the switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the KTT Lightning switch offers a subtle and polished typing experience. This means that it has a gentle resistance that is not too heavy, but still provides a satisfying feel when typing. The switch also has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. This makes typing on the Lightning switch sleek and comfortable. Similarly, the SP-Star Yanyu switch offers a mild and subtle typing experience. It provides a gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The switch is also feathery, meaning it is exceptionally light to press and requires little exertion from the fingers. This reduces finger fatigue and makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions.
Considering all the available information, the KTT Lightning linear switch is best suited for those who prioritize speed and responsiveness, such as gamers or individuals in competitive environments. Its clacky sound profile and subtle, polished feel contribute to a snappy and slick typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch is a great choice for those looking for a more delicate typing experience or needing to type for extended periods. Its neutral sound profile and mild, feathery feel provide a versatile option suitable for various purposes. Both switches offer different subjective qualities based on sound and feel, allowing individuals to choose the switch that aligns with their preferences. However, it is important to remember that individual preferences may vary, and ultimately the choice of switch is subjective to personal taste.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are someone who values speed and responsiveness, the KTT Lightning linear switch may be the ideal choice for you. With a light bottom-out force of 50 grams, it allows for quick keystrokes, making it perfect for gaming or situations where split-second decisions matter. The Lightning switch offers a slick type feel and produces a clacky sound profile, which adds to the overall experience.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a delicate typing experience or find yourself typing for extended periods of time, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch would be a better fit. With a slightly lighter bottom-out force of 43 grams, it reduces finger fatigue and provides a comfortable typing experience. The Yanyu switch has a crisp sound profile, giving you a satisfying and refined typing sound.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Lightning and SP-Star Yanyu linear switches depends on your personal preferences and specific requirements. Both switches have their unique characteristics and excel in different scenarios. Whether you prioritize speed and precision or prioritize comfort and endurance, there is a switch that caters to your needs. Experimenting with both switches may also be a good idea to determine which one suits you best. In the end, the decision lies in your hands, and it's important to choose a switch that enhances your overall typing or gaming experience.
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