Cherry MX Black vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Black and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options are the Cherry MX Black and the SP-Star Yanyu. The MX Black switch, known for its iconic status, has been further perfected by Cherry with their new Hyperglide tooling. This results in a switch that offers a classic textured smoothness, accompanied by a familiar deep sound profile. Categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Textured', and 'Stiff', the MX Black switch provides a satisfying and tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch is perfect for those seeking a more delicate typing experience or those who spend extended periods of time typing. Known for its crisp sound profile, the Yanyu switch is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', 'Feathery', 'Subtle', and 'Polished'. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
80g
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
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
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 Cherry MX Black and the SP-Star Yanyu have different housing materials for both their top and bottom housings. The MX Black utilizes a nylon material for both its top and bottom housings, while the Yanyu incorporates a unique blend of polymer nylon and UHMWPE for both its top and bottom housings. The nylon top housing of the MX Black creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Yanyu's polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing offers a sound profile that is pleasant and slightly brighter, providing a different auditory experience.
On the bottom housing front, both the MX Black and the Yanyu feature nylon materials. The nylon bottom housing of the MX Black contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to its nylon top housing. The Yanyu's polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend bottom housing, being a part of the unique blend, also contributes to the overall sound profile of the switch. However, without specific information about the qualities this blend brings to the switch, it is difficult to directly compare the sound produced by the Yanyu's bottom housing and the MX Black's bottom housing.
When it comes to the impact on sound and feel, the bottom housing of the switch plays a significant role. The qualities of the bottom housing, such as its material and structure, influence the sound and feel when the key is pressed down. In this aspect, both the MX Black and the Yanyu will likely offer similar results since they have nylon as their common bottom housing material. On the other hand, the top housing's impact is more noticeable when releasing a key. The MX Black's nylon top housing and the Yanyu's polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing will have distinct effects on the sound produced when a key is released, potentially creating different auditory experiences for the user.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces between the Cherry MX Black linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, some noticeable differences arise. The MX Black has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, making it a heavier option. On the other hand, the Yanyu's actuation force is unavailable, indicating that this information is not known, but it has a bottom out force of 43 grams, which is lighter in comparison.
Considering weight is important for different individuals based on their preferences and usage requirements. Those who prefer a lighter switch often appreciate the ability to type for extended periods without experiencing fatigue. This makes it ideal for keyboards used at work or during long gaming sessions. However, some individuals seek a more substantial typing experience and value a stronger push feel. For these users, a switch with a heavier actuation force would be more suitable.
In terms of actuation force, the available information suggests that the Cherry MX Black linear switch requires a higher force to trigger a keystroke compared to the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, although the exact value for the Yanyu is unknown. As for bottom out force, the MX Black requires more force at 80 grams, whereas the Yanyu is comparatively lighter at 43 grams. These variations in actuation and bottom out forces allow individuals to select switches that align with their personal preferences and desired typing experiences.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch plays a crucial role in the typing experience, determining how much distance the switch physically travels when pressed down. In comparing the Cherry MX Black linear switch to the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, both have an identical travel distance of 4 mm. This means that pressing down on these switches will result in a similar typing experience, with the keys traveling 4 mm from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent and comfortable typing experience with their equal travel distances.
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 Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00 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
In terms of sound, the Cherry MX Black switch is known for its low-pitched profile. This means that it produces a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. When typing on the MX Black, you can expect a familiar deep sound profile. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate sound profile that is suitable for most intents and purposes. Additionally, the Yanyu switch is said to have a thocky sound, which produces a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when the key is pressed and released. It is important to note that the actual sound of the switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Cherry MX Black switch is described as textured, which means it has noticeable friction when pressed. Some users may prefer this subtle texture, while others prefer a smoother, friction-free typing experience. Additionally, the MX Black switch is considered to be stiff, requiring a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out compared to other switches. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu switch offers a mild and feathery typing experience. It is exceptionally light to press, requiring little exertion from your fingers and reducing finger fatigue. The Yanyu switch is also described as having a subtle resistance, providing a gentle and light typing feel. It is also polished, meaning it has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Considering all the available information, the Cherry MX Black and SP-Star Yanyu switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The MX Black switch provides a low-pitched sound profile with a textured and stiff typing experience. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch offers a neutral sound profile with a thocky and polished feel. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing needs. If you are looking for a deeper and mellow sound with some texture and stiffness, the MX Black switch would be a suitable choice. Alternatively, if you prefer a more gentle and feathery typing experience with a thocky sound, the Yanyu switch would be a good option. It is important to consider your own preferences and requirements when choosing between these two switches to ensure a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the Cherry MX Black and the SP-Star Yanyu switches, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing requirements. If you prefer a heavier key switch with a deep sound profile and a textured, stiff feel, then the MX Black may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter key switch with a crisp sound profile and a mild, feathery feel, then the Yanyu switch may be more suitable. Additionally, if you are looking for a switch that is suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, or if you plan to use the keyboard at home or in a shared space, the Yanyu switch's neutral sound profile and subtle, polished feel may be a good fit. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches should be based on your personal preferences and typing needs.
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