KTT Purple Click vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the KTT Purple Click and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a plethora of options available, each catering to different preferences and typing needs. In this comparison, we will be examining the KTT Purple Click, a clicky switch, and the SP-Star Yanyu, a linear switch. The Purple Click is renowned for its high-pitched and satisfying click, offering a balanced level of tactility without overwhelming the user. On the other hand, the Yanyu is perfect for those seeking a more delicate typing experience or individuals who spend long hours typing. With its crisp sound profile and a blend of materials, the Yanyu delivers a smooth and polished experience. While these general descriptions provide a glimpse into the characteristics of each switch, let's delve deeper to help you make the best choice for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
1.90 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
18mm spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The KTT Purple Click and the SP-Star Yanyu have different housing materials for both the top and bottom of the switch. The Purple Click features a polycarbonate top housing, while the Yanyu has a Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing. The polycarbonate in the Purple Click creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for those who prefer a more clear and resonant sound. In contrast, the Yanyu's blend offers a pleasant sound profile that is not particularly sharp but leans towards the brighter side. While both materials contribute to the overall sound of the switch, they provide different characteristics and cater to different preferences.
Similarly, the housing materials differ for the bottom of the switches as well. The Purple Click utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound that may be preferred by some users. On the other hand, the Yanyu combines Polymer nylon and UHMWPE in its bottom housing, offering a unique sound profile that is also pleasant but not as deep as the Purple Click's nylon bottom housing. These differences in material showcase the distinct characteristics and sound profiles that can be achieved with various housing materials.
It's important to note that the top and bottom housings play different roles in the overall sound and feel of a switch. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the choice of housing material for the top and bottom can greatly affect the overall typing experience. Despite their differences, both the Purple Click and the Yanyu aim to provide an enjoyable typing experience with their respective housing materials, catering to different preferences in sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Purple Click clicky switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Purple Click has an actuation force of 40 grams, while the Yanyu's actuation force is unknown. In terms of bottom out force, the Purple Click requires 55 grams, slightly heavier than the Yanyu's 43 grams.
These differences in force have implications for the typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Yanyu more suitable, as it requires less force for both actuation and bottoming out. This lighter touch can be beneficial for extended typing sessions or prolonged gaming periods. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Purple Click, with its medium-light actuation force and slightly heavier bottom out force.
However, it's important to note that if both switches have the same actuation force, the results could be similar regardless of the bottom out force. Weight consideration is subjective and can vary based on personal preference. Ultimately, the decision between these switches comes down to the individual's desired typing experience – whether they prefer a lighter touch or a slightly heavier push feel.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the KTT Purple Click clicky switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. Consequently, both switches provide a similar tactile feedback and sensation when pressed down. Thus, users can expect to experience comparable results in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Purple Click has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Purple Click for $2.55.
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 KTT Purple Click switch offers a unique experience with a high-pitched, satisfying click. Typing on these switches produces a crunchy sound, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. The resonant nature of the switch adds to the auditory experience, delivering clean and sharp sound profiles. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu switch provides a more neutral sound profile. It falls into the thocky category, producing a deep and satisfying "thud" or a soft "knock" when pressed and released. While the Purple Click switch offers a distinct clicky sound, the Yanyu switch focuses more on a moderate sound profile suitable for various purposes.
Moving on to feel, typing on the Purple Click switch offers an invigorating experience due to its pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and snappy feel. This creates an immersive typing sensation that is highly responsive. Additionally, the Purple Click switch can be described as a stepped switch, delivering a mild tactile experience with some pre-travel and/or post-travel sensations. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch offers a milder typing experience, falling into the mild category of switches. It provides a gentle and approachable feel, suitable for most users. The Yanyu switch also offers a feathery option, which is exceptionally light to press and reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The switch's subtle resistance and polished finish contribute to a smooth and comfortable typing experience.
In conclusion, the KTT Purple Click switch stands out for its high-pitched, satisfying click sound and invigorating feel with pronounced feedback. It offers a perfect equilibrium between light keystrokes and notable tactility. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu switch provides a more delicate typing experience, suitable for long periods of typing. Its crisp sound profile and mild feel make it approachable to a wide range of users. Despite their differences, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Whether you opt for the Purple Click or the Yanyu switch, you can expect an enjoyable typing experience tailored towards your desired level of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are seeking a switch with a satisfying click and a pronounced tactile feel, the KTT Purple Click switch would be an excellent choice. With its medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams, it offers a balanced typing experience. The Purple Click switch is known for its high-pitched and satisfying click, providing an invigorating and reactive feel while typing. Additionally, its sound profile is described as crunchy and resonant, offering an immersive auditory experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more delicate and gentle typing experience, especially for long periods of time, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch may be the ideal option. With a light bottom out force of 43 grams, the Yanyu switch provides a comfortable and approachable feel. Its sound profile is described as neutral and thocky, offering a clean and satisfying typing sound. Moreover, the Yanyu switch is known for its feathery and subtle feel, reducing finger fatigue and making it suitable for extended typing sessions.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Purple Click switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch depends on your personal preferences and typing needs. Whether you prioritize a pronounced tactile feel and satisfying click, or a gentle and comfortable typing experience, both switches offer their own unique qualities. Consider your preferences for sound, feel, and bottom out force when deciding which switch suits you best.
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