KTT Mint vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the KTT Mint and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Mint and the SP-Star Yanyu are two popular options that offer unique typing experiences. The Mint is renowned for its satisfyingly smooth linear switch, which provides a delightful poppy thockiness due to its long pole stem. This switch offers a light and fleeting type feel, making it perfect for those who prefer a low-pitched and neutral typing experience. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch is ideal for individuals in search of a more delicate typing experience or those who spend extended periods of time typing. Its material blend contributes to a crisp sound profile, and it offers a relaxing, mild, and subtle typing sensation. Both switches have their own distinct qualities and appeal, catering to different preferences and needs. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The KTT Mint and SP-Star Yanyu have different housing materials for both the top and bottom housings. The Mint features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic that produces a clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the Yanyu utilizes a unique blend of polymer nylon and UHMWPE for its top housing. This blend offers a pleasant sound profile that is bright but not particularly sharp.
In terms of bottom housings, the Mint uses nylon, which is considered a classic switch housing material. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housings results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Yanyu employs a blend of polymer nylon and UHMWPE for its bottom housing. This blend adds to the unique sound profile of the switch, providing a pleasant sound that leans towards the brighter side.
Considering the differences in housing materials, the qualities they bring to the switches are split between the top and bottom housings. When pressing down on the switches, the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. Therefore, the materials used in the bottom housing, such as nylon or the polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend, will influence the overall typing experience. Conversely, the top housing material, whether polycarbonate or the polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend, will have a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both the Mint and Yanyu offer distinct and pleasant sound profiles, showcasing the unique qualities of their respective housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mint linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, there are some notable differences. The Mint switch has an actuation force of 45 grams, which is considered medium-light, while the Yanyu's actuation force is unavailable, making it difficult to compare directly. However, it is worth mentioning that the Yanyu has a bottom out force of 43 grams, which is lighter compared to the Mint's bottom out force of 53 grams.
For those looking for a lighter typing experience, the Yanyu may be the preferred choice as it offers a lower bottom out force. This can be beneficial for individuals who type for longer periods or engage in extended gaming sessions, as the lighter force allows for more comfortable and extended use. On the other hand, the Mint switch caters to individuals who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience. With its slightly heavier actuation force and bottom out force, the Mint switch provides a satisfying tactile feedback that some users may find more pleasing.
Ultimately, the decision between these two switches would depend on personal preference. If a lighter and smoother typing experience is desired, the Yanyu switch would be the ideal choice. However, if a stronger and more substantial push feel is preferred, the Mint switch would deliver the desired result.
Travel distance
The KTT Mint linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will feel the same distance that the switch travels from top to bottom. Both switches offer a consistent tactile experience and allow for precise and comfortable typing or gaming. Whether you choose the KTT Mint or the SP-Star Yanyu, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance. The travel distance is equal for both switches, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable typing or gaming 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 Mint comes in at $2.91 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 Mint and SP-Star Yanyu switches both have a neutral sound profile. This means that they have a moderate sound level and are suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or an advanced user, and whether you plan to use them at home or work. However, the Mint has an additional descriptor of being low-pitched, which means it produces a more bass-heavy and mellow sound compared to the Yanyu. On the other hand, the Yanyu has a thocky sound profile, which means it produces a deep, rich, and satisfying sound similar to a soft "knock" or a deep "thud" when the key is pressed and released. Ultimately, both switches offer a pleasant sound experience, but with different characteristics.
In terms of feel, both the KTT Mint and SP-Star Yanyu switches provide a mild typing experience. This means that they offer a gentle and approachable typing feel, suitable for most users. Additionally, both switches have a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. This smoothness is achieved through materials used or factory lubing, reducing friction and ensuring smooth key travel for comfortable typing. The Yanyu switch goes a step further and is described as feathery, which means it is exceptionally light to press and requires minimal finger exertion. This reduces finger fatigue and makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions such as gaming, school, or work. Furthermore, the Yanyu switch is also described as subtle, meaning it has a gentle resistance and a sound signature that is not resonant, making it suitable for shared spaces. Overall, both switches offer a pleasant and polished typing feel, with the Yanyu providing the added benefit of being exceptionally light and suitable for shared spaces.
In conclusion, the KTT Mint and SP-Star Yanyu switches share some similarities in terms of sound and feel. They both have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various purposes, and provide a mild typing experience with a polished finish for smooth key travel. However, the Mint has a low-pitched sound characteristic, giving it a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, while the Yanyu has a thocky sound profile, producing a deep and satisfying sound. Additionally, the Yanyu switch is exceptionally light to press, reducing finger fatigue, and has a subtle resistance, making it suitable for shared spaces. Both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, but the Yanyu provides a more delicate and lightweight option for those typing for extended periods or in shared environments. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and specific typing needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a satisfyingly smooth linear switch with a light and fleeting type feel, the KTT Mint would be the ideal choice for you. Its 53-gram bottom out force provides a medium-light typing experience. The Mint is best known for its poppy thockiness, which is achieved through its long pole stem. It also offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, creating a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. In terms of feel, the Mint provides a mild and polished typing experience, thanks to its smooth and refined finish.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more delicate typing experience or need switches for extended typing periods, the SP-Star Yanyu would be a great option. With a bottom out force of 43 grams, the Yanyu offers a light typing feel that reduces finger fatigue. It is best known for its crisp sound profile, producing a deep and satisfying thocky sound when pressed. The Yanyu also provides a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes. In terms of feel, the Yanyu offers a mild and feathery experience, with a gentle resistance that is comfortable for long typing sessions. Like the Mint, it also features a polished finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the decision between the KTT Mint and the SP-Star Yanyu comes down to your personal preferences. Consider whether you prioritize a slightly heavier typing experience with a poppy thockiness (Mint), or a lighter and more delicate typing feel with a crisp sound (Yanyu). Both switches offer a mild and polished typing experience, but the Yanyu provides a feathery and subtle feel, which may be preferable for extended typing sessions or shared spaces. Overall, whether you choose the Mint or the Yanyu, you can expect a high-quality mechanical keyboard switch that enhances your typing experience.
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