Cherry Nixie vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the Cherry Nixie and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Cherry Nixie linear switch to the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, some notable differences are apparent. The Cherry Nixie is renowned for its substantial heft and textured typing experience, offering a blend of tradition and modern innovation with the incorporation of updated materials and springs from Cherry's MX2A update. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu provides a more delicate typing experience, ideal for lengthy typing sessions, and boasts a crisp sound profile due to its unique material blend. While the Nixie is known for its low-pitched feel, the Yanyu offers a subtle and polished typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
63.5g
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
Yes
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Cherry Nixie and SP-Star Yanyu both feature nylon top housings, which offer a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic absorbing more sound. However, the Yanyu stands out with its unique blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE, providing a slightly brighter sound compared to the Nixie. This difference in sound profile can be attributed to the materials used in the top housings, showcasing how small variations in housing materials can impact the overall typing experience.
In terms of bottom housing materials, both the Nixie and Yanyu utilize nylon for its sound-absorbing properties, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. The Yanyu again deviates from the traditional nylon bottom housing with its Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend, incorporating a bit of brightness into the sound profile. This blend of materials in the bottom housing of the Yanyu offers a unique typing experience compared to the Nixie's more standard nylon bottom housing, showcasing the innovation in switch design and materials.
Overall, while both the Cherry Nixie and SP-Star Yanyu utilize nylon in their housing materials, the Yanyu sets itself apart with its blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE, resulting in a slightly brighter sound profile. The difference in sound between the two switches can be attributed to the unique housing materials used, demonstrating how subtle variations in materials can impact the typing experience. Despite these differences, both switches offer a pleasant typing experience, showcasing the versatility and importance of housing materials in switch design.
Weight
The Cherry Nixie linear switch has a higher actuation force of 63.5 grams compared to the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. Additionally, the Nixie has a heavier bottom out force of 80 grams, while the Yanyu has a lighter bottom out force of 43 grams. This means that the Nixie offers a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, whereas the Yanyu provides a lighter touch for smoother typing. For those who prefer a heavier key press, the Nixie would be the better choice, while those who prefer a lighter key press may find the Yanyu more suitable. Ultimately, the difference in actuation and bottom out forces between these two switches caters to different preferences for typing and gaming experiences.
Travel distance
Both the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, providing users with a consistent typing experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. This means that whether you opt for the Cherry Nixie or the SP-Star Yanyu, you can expect similar results in terms of keypress feel and travel distance. Ultimately, the travel distance of both switches is equal, making them both suitable options for those seeking a linear switch with a 4 mm travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry Nixie has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Nixie for $4.15.
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 Cherry Nixie linear switch is known for its deep and satisfying thocky sound, with a low-pitched tone that resonates with each key press. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu switch offers a neutral sound profile with a thocky quality that adds a crisp touch to the typing experience. Both switches provide a pleasant auditory feedback, but the Nixie may offer a richer and more bass-heavy sound compared to the Yanyu.
In terms of feel, the Cherry Nixie switch is noted for its textured typing experience, which can be preferred by users who enjoy a tactile sensation when typing. In contrast, the SP-Star Yanyu switch offers a mild and feathery feel that is gentle on the fingers and reduces fatigue during long typing sessions. The Yanyu switch also boasts a polished finish that contributes to a smooth and refined typing experience, making it comfortable for various activities such as gaming, schoolwork, or office tasks.
Overall, both the Cherry Nixie and SP-Star Yanyu linear switches provide unique qualities that cater to different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts. While the Nixie offers a more substantial and textured typing experience with a thocky, low-pitched sound, the Yanyu presents a delicate and feathery feel with a neutral, thocky sound profile. Depending on your personal preference for sound, feel, and typing experience, either switch can deliver a satisfying performance that enhances your overall keyboarding experience. Ultimately, if you enjoy a rich and textured typing feel, the Nixie may be the ideal choice, while the Yanyu is perfect for those seeking a gentle and polished typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Cherry Nixie linear switch or the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, you should take into account your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a textured typing experience that produces a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, the Cherry Nixie switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smoother typing experience with a neutral and thocky sound profile, the SP-Star Yanyu switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and whether you prioritize a heavier or lighter touch when typing.
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