KTT Matcha vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the KTT Matcha and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Are you in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch but not sure which one to choose? Allow us to introduce two popular options for you to consider: the KTT Matcha, a tactile switch, and the SP-Star Yanyu, a linear switch. The KTT Matcha is renowned for its comfortable and snappy tactility, providing a satisfying typing experience. Additionally, it boasts a clean bottom-out sound, thanks to its long pole stem. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch is perfect for those who prefer a more delicate typing experience or spend long periods of time typing. Its material blend gives it a crisp sound profile, ensuring a pleasant auditory experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision about the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Matcha and the SP-Star Yanyu differ in their composition. The Matcha utilizes polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housings, while the Yanyu combines Polymer nylon and UHMWPE for its top and bottom housings. Polycarbonate has the advantage of being a stiffer plastic, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. In contrast, the Yanyu's blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE offers a pleasant sound profile that is not particularly sharp but leans towards the brighter side.
The choice of housing materials also affects the aesthetics of the switches. The Matcha's polycarbonate housing is translucent, allowing the RGB lighting to shine through effectively. This makes it particularly suitable for those who plan to use RGB lighting in their setup. On the other hand, the Yanyu's housing blend does not possess translucency, so it might not have the same visual appeal when it comes to showcasing RGB lighting effects.
When it comes to the overall feel and sound of the switches, the bottom housing plays a significant role. With the Matcha's polycarbonate bottom housing, the stiffness of the plastic contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile during bottom-out. In contrast, the Yanyu's blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE in the bottom housing offers a distinct impact and sound when the keys are pressed down. However, the top housing is where the differences between the two switches become more prominent. The polycarbonate top housing of the Matcha enhances the sound when you release a key, resulting in a crisper sound profile. Meanwhile, the Yanyu's top housing blend provides a sound profile that is not particularly sharp but still brighter in comparison.
Overall, while the Matcha and Yanyu have different housing materials, they both offer unique sound profiles. The Matcha's polycarbonate housings excel in creating a sharper and crisper sound, particularly useful for those who prioritize a clear and resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the Yanyu's blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE provides a pleasing sound that leans towards the brighter side. However, it is essential to consider the visual aspect as well, as the Matcha's translucency allows for better RGB lighting effects, whereas the Yanyu does not possess this feature.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, it is clear that both switches have relatively light forces. The Matcha has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the Yanyu's actuation force is unknown and it has a bottom out force of 43 grams.
For those who prioritize a lighter typing experience, either of these switches would be a suitable choice. The Matcha's slightly lighter actuation force may appeal to individuals who prefer a feather-light touch for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. On the other hand, the Yanyu's marginally lower bottom out force provides a gentle yet substantial typing experience for those who desire a bit more resistance.
It is worth noting that since the actuation forces are unknown for the Yanyu, it is difficult to pinpoint the exact difference in force between the two switches. However, based on the available information, it can be deduced that the Matcha is lighter in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces compared to the Yanyu. Nonetheless, both switches are designed to provide a relatively light and comfortable typing experience. So, if a user prefers a lighter feel, they can expect similar results from either of these switches.
Travel distance
The KTT Matcha tactile switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches will provide a similar tactile experience when pressed. The travel distance of a switch is the distance it travels from the top to the bottom, and in this case, both switches cover the same distance. Whether you choose the Matcha or the Yanyu, you can expect to feel the same amount of travel when typing or gaming. Neither switch is shorter or longer than the other in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
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
When it comes to sound, the KTT Matcha tactile switch is known for its clean and snappy bottom-out sound. The long pole stem of the Matcha contributes to this distinct sound profile, resulting in a crisp and bright sound when the keys are pressed. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch has a more neutral sound profile. It falls within the moderate range in terms of sound, making it suitable for various purposes, whether you're a beginner or advanced user or if you plan to use the switches at home or work. Additionally, the Yanyu switch is also described as having a "thocky" sound profile, which means it produces a deep and satisfying sound similar to a "thud" or soft "knock" when the keys are pressed and released. Keep in mind that the sound of the switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the KTT Matcha tactile switch offers a stepped experience, meaning it has two stages of tactility. While the whole keystroke is not a big bump like in hypertactile switches, the Matcha still provides a mild tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. The Matcha switch is also described as snappy, thanks to its longer or dual-staged springs, which enhances the typing experience and makes it feel more responsive. Additionally, the Matcha switch is considered accented, meaning it provides a prominent amount of tactility without being scratchy. This combination of features contributes to a comfortable and lively typing experience. The Matcha switch is also characterized as feathery, requiring little exertion from your fingers and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Finally, the Matcha switch is described as having a subtle resistance, maintaining a light typing feel and producing a non-resonant sound signature suitable for shared spaces.
In comparison, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch offers a more mild and gentle typing experience. It falls within the mild category, which means it provides a softer and more approachable typing feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The Yanyu switch is also described as feathery, requiring minimal finger exertion and reducing strain during long typing sessions. Similar to the Matcha switch, the Yanyu switch also offers a subtle resistance, providing a gentle resistance without being overly light. The Yanyu switch is also characterized as polished, meaning it has a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience. This smoothness is achieved through either the materials used or factory lubing. With a polished switch like the Yanyu, you can expect reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Considering all the available information, the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Matcha switch provides a clean and snappy bottom-out sound with its long pole stem, while the Yanyu switch offers a more neutral sound profile with a touch of "thocky" richness. In terms of feel, the Matcha switch offers a stepped and snappy experience with accented tactility, feathery lightness, and subtle resistance. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch provides a mild and gentle typing experience with feathery lightness, subtle resistance, and a polished finish. Depending on your preferences, both switches provide unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience. It is important to consider factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used to further customize the sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a light bottom out force and a clean bottom-out sound, the KTT Matcha would be a great choice. With its comfortable and snappy tactility, typing on the Matcha switches is a pleasure. The Matcha switches also produce a clacky sound when pressed, which can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. Additionally, the Matcha switches are described as stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle, providing a typing experience that is responsive, comfortable, and suitable for shared spaces.
On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a light bottom out force and a crisp sound profile, the SP-Star Yanyu would be a suitable option. These switches offer a delicate typing experience, making them perfect for extended typing sessions. The Yanyu switches are described as neutral and thocky, providing a moderate actuation force requirement and a deep, rich sound when pressed. Furthermore, the Yanyu switches are described as mild, feathery, subtle, and polished, offering a gentle typing experience with reduced finger fatigue and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize a tactile switch with a clean bottom-out sound and a more pronounced tactile feel, the Matcha would be a great fit. However, if you prefer a linear switch with a delicate typing experience and a crisp sound profile, the Yanyu would be a suitable choice. Consider factors such as bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel to determine which switch aligns best with your preferences and typing style.
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