Kailh Plum vs. SP-Star Yanyu

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch can greatly impact your typing experience. Two popular options to consider are the Kailh Plum, a tactile switch, and the SP-Star Yanyu, a linear switch. The Plum stands out with its unique combination of weightiness and a subtle tactile bump, setting it apart from other tactile switches. On the other hand, the Yanyu is known for its delicate typing experience and is especially suitable for prolonged typing sessions. Its material blend contributes to a crisp sound profile. Both switches fall under the category of neutral and mild, but the Yanyu also offers thocky, feathery, subtle, and polished characteristics. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Housing materials

The Kailh Plum and SP-Star Yanyu differ in their choice of housing materials. The Plum utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, while the Yanyu features a polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This makes it ideal for those who prefer a more clear and resonant sound, especially when combined with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Yanyu's unique blend of polymer nylon and UHMWPE creates a sound profile that is pleasant and brighter, veering away from sharpness.

When it comes to the bottom housing, the Plum opts for nylon, while the Yanyu uses the same polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend. Nylon, being a softer plastic, produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound, which some may find appealing for a more satisfying typing experience. Similarly, the Yanyu's blend offers a sound profile that is pleasant, albeit not particularly sharp. It provides a balance between sharpness and brightness, potentially suiting users who prefer a slightly brighter sound.

Considering the impact of the top and bottom housings on the overall sound and feel, it is worth noting that the qualities brought by each housing material are divided between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on a switch, the bottom housing plays a more significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while the specific materials differ between the Plum and Yanyu, users can expect similar results in terms of the overall sound profile and typing experience.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Plum tactile switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, there are notable differences in their weight. The Plum switch has an actuation force of unavailable grams, while the Yanyu switch also has an actuation force of unavailable grams. Therefore, in terms of actuation force, it is difficult to determine a clear distinction between the two switches.

However, when considering the bottom out force, the Plum switch requires 70 grams of force, categorizing it as medium-heavy. In contrast, the Yanyu switch only requires 43 grams, making it a lighter option. This discrepancy in bottom out force allows for a differentiated typing experience between the two switches.

The weight of a keyboard switch is an important consideration for individuals. Some prefer lighter switches as it enables them to type for longer durations, which is ideal for work keyboards or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, some users prefer a heavier actuation force to provide a more substantial and tactile typing experience.

In conclusion, while the actuation force of the Kailh Plum tactile switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch remains unknown, we can determine that the Plum switch possesses a heavier bottom out force compared to the Yanyu switch. This difference in weight provides users with the option to choose between a medium-heavy typing experience or a lighter touch.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the Kailh Plum tactile switch is 3.6 mm, while the travel distance of the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch is 4 mm. Based on these measurements, it is clear that the Yanyu has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Plum. The Yanyu's 4 mm travel distance falls within the range of the most traditional distance for switches, which is 4.0 mm. On the other hand, the Plum's 3.6 mm travel distance is slightly shorter, appealing to gamers who prefer faster response times. This shorter travel distance allows for quicker key presses and is favored by gamers seeking increased responsiveness. However, it is important to note that some individuals may find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt. For those who enjoy a deeper feeling when pressing a key, the Yanyu's longer travel distance may be the preferred option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Kailh Plum tactile switch is unique in that it feels hefty without featuring a large tactile bump. This sets it apart from many other tactile switches, where tactility and weightiness go hand in hand. The sound profile of the Plum switch is neutral and enjoyable, providing a pleasant typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch is known for offering a delicate typing experience, making it a great choice for those who type for long periods of time. The Yanyu switch has a crisp sound profile thanks to its material blend. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

In terms of sound, both the Plum and Yanyu switches are described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that they have a moderate sound profile that suits a wide range of purposes, whether for beginners or advanced users, and whether used at home or in the workplace. However, the Yanyu switch is also described as having a thocky sound, which produces a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed and released.

When it comes to feel, both the Plum and Yanyu switches offer a gentle typing experience. The Plum switch is described as mild, providing a safe and approachable typing feel. It is also categorized as a stepped switch, which means it has two stages in its tactile feedback, with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch is described as mild, feathery, subtle, and polished. It offers a gentle resistance and is exceptionally light to press, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Yanyu switch has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction.

In conclusion, the Plum and Yanyu switches offer different subjective qualities. The Plum switch is unique in its hefty feel without a large tactile bump, providing a neutral and enjoyable sound profile. The Yanyu switch, on the other hand, is known for its delicate typing experience with a crisp sound profile. Both switches offer a mild feel, suiting most users, and have a neutral sound profile suitable for various purposes. If you are looking for similar results in terms of sound and feel, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you value a heavier switch with a unique tactile experience and a neutral sound profile, the Kailh Plum tactile switch would be a great choice for you. These switches have a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a medium-heavy feel, and offer a mild and stepped typing experience. The Plum switches are known for their weightiness without a pronounced tactile bump, making them stand out among other tactile switches. Additionally, their sound profile is described as neutral and enjoyable.

On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch that offers a delicate typing experience and a crisp sound profile, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch would be a suitable option. With a bottom out force of 43 grams, these switches are light and reduce finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The Yanyu switches have a mild feel and are described as feathery, subtle, and polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience. The sound profile of the Yanyu switches is also neutral, with a thocky option available for those who prefer a deeper and more satisfying sound.

Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Plum tactile switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch depends on your personal preferences for key weight, tactility, and sound. Consider how heavy of a switch you prefer and whether you value a unique tactile experience or a delicate typing experience. Additionally, think about the sound profile that appeals to you, whether it's a neutral profile or a deeper thocky sound. By considering these factors, you can select the switch that best suits your typing style and preferences.

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