KTT Miaowu vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the KTT Miaowu and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT Miaowu and the SP-Star Yanyu mechanical keyboard switches, we see that both are linear switches, but they offer different experiences based on their unique characteristics. The Miaowu, known for its enhanced stem stability and smoother keystroke action, is categorized as 'Bouncy' and 'Clacky', making it a great choice for those who prefer a more tactile and responsive typing experience. On the other hand, the Yanyu switches are lauded for providing a delicate typing experience, perfect for long typing sessions, with a material blend that produces a crisp sound profile. Categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', 'Feathery', 'Subtle', and 'Polished', the Yanyu offers a different feel from the Miaowu. 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
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the KTT Miaowu and the SP-Star Yanyu offer unique sound profiles based on their composition. The Miaowu's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper, higher-pitched sound compared to the Yanyu's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing, which offers a more pleasant and brighter tone. While the polycarbonate top housing is known for its clear and resonant sound, the blend used in the Yanyu switch creates a sound profile that is not particularly sharp but still vibrant.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the Miaowu utilizes nylon, which produces a deeper and fuller sound when typing due to its softer composition that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Yanyu's unique Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend bottom housing contributes to a pleasant and slightly brighter sound profile. The difference in bottom housing materials affects the overall sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, with the Miaowu offering a duller and rounder sound, while the Yanyu provides a more vibrant tone.
Overall, while the Miaowu and Yanyu switches have differences in their housing materials, both offer distinctive sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The use of polycarbonate in the Miaowu's top housing creates a sharp and crisp sound, while the Yanyu's blend produces a more pleasant and bright tone. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the Miaowu gives a deeper sound, whereas the Yanyu's unique blend contributes to a slightly brighter tone. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound characteristics and typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Miaowu linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch differ slightly. The Miaowu has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a relatively light switch overall. In comparison, the Yanyu's actuation force is unknown, but its bottom out force is 43 grams, also on the lighter side. Both switches lean towards a lighter feel, which may appeal to users looking for a smoother typing experience that doesn't require as much force. Users who prefer a more substantial typing experience may find these switches to be too light for their liking. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Miaowu linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, we can see that the Miaowu has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Yanyu has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Miaowu has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Yanyu. Generally, a shorter travel distance results in faster response times, making it a preferred choice for gamers seeking quick reactions. On the other hand, a longer travel distance can provide a more tactile and satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a deeper keypress. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Miaowu has an MSRP of $4.32 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Miaowu for $3.71.
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 KTT Miaowu linear switch is known for its clacky sound profile, which produces a sharp and snappy sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive when pressed. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch has a more neutral sound profile overall, with a moderate actuation force requirement. Additionally, the Yanyu switch offers a thocky option, which produces a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. Both switches provide different auditory experiences, catering to those who prefer a more clacky or thocky sound.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Miaowu linear switch is described as bouncy, providing a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation that gives the keys a lively feel with rebound when pressed. In contrast, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch offers a variety of options, ranging from a mild typing experience to a feathery light touch that reduces finger fatigue. Additionally, the Yanyu switch provides a subtle typing feel that is gentle with light resistance, as well as a polished finish for smooth key travel. These various feel options cater to different preferences, offering a comfortable typing experience for extended use.
Overall, both the KTT Miaowu linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Miaowu switch is known for its clacky sound and bouncy feel, providing a sharp and lively typing experience. In contrast, the Yanyu switch offers a range of sound profiles from neutral to thocky, as well as a variety of feel options from mild to feathery, catering to different preferences. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, as both provide distinct typing experiences that can enhance your overall keyboarding experience.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are looking for a smoother keystroke action and enhanced stem stability, the KTT Miaowu linear switch would be a great choice. With a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams, this switch provides a bouncy and lively typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a more delicate typing experience and a crisp sound profile, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch with its 43-gram bottom out force may be more suitable for you. The Yanyu switch offers a feathery and polished feel, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. Ultimately, the decision between the Miaowu and Yanyu switches will come down to your personal preference for typing feel and sound profile.
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