KTT Rose vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the KTT Rose and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that come to mind are the KTT Rose and the SP-Star Yanyu. On the one hand, the Rose is known for its beautiful appearance, thanks to progressive springs that provide a unique and substantial typing experience without being heavy. Typing on these switches is like hearing bassy raindrops. Categorized as low-pitched, neutral, mild, and polished, the Rose switch offers a satisfying and balanced feel. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch is perfect for those seeking a more delicate typing experience or those who spend long periods of time typing. The material blend of the Yanyu switch gives it a crisp sound profile. Categorized as neutral, mild, thocky, feathery, subtle, and polished, it offers a subtle and refined touch to your typing. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Progressive spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The KTT Rose and the SP-Star Yanyu differ in terms of their housing materials. The Rose utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which allows for a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate is beneficial for those planning to use RGB lighting. In contrast, the Yanyu features a unique blend of polymer nylon and UHMWPE in its top housing. This combination creates a sound profile that is pleasant and bright, without being particularly sharp. While both materials contribute to a desired sound profile, they offer different characteristics to the switches.
Regarding the bottom housing, the Rose employs nylon, a classic switch housing material. Typing on switches with nylon housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Conversely, the Yanyu uses a blend of polymer nylon and UHMWPE for its bottom housing. This combination, like in the top housing, provides a unique sound profile that is pleasant and bright. Thus, while the materials differ, they both contribute to creating a desired typing experience.
When analyzing the impact of housing materials on switch performance, it is important to note that if the top and bottom housings are different for a switch, the qualities of each material will be divided between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing primarily influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing plays a larger role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Thus, the Rose and the Yanyu will provide similar results in terms of the overall sound profile and typing experience, but with slight variations depending on the combination of housing materials used in each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Rose linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, there are some noticeable differences. Starting with the actuation force, unfortunately, the exact measurements for both switches are unavailable. However, it can be inferred that the actuation force of both switches is similar or within a similar range since it is not mentioned otherwise. Moving on to the bottom out force, the KTT Rose switch has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which can be considered medium-heavy. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu switch has a lighter bottom out force of 43 grams.
Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing switches, as it can significantly impact typing experience. Some individuals prefer lighter switches, as it allows them to type for longer periods of time without experiencing fatigue. This is particularly advantageous for those who use their keyboard extensively at work or engage in long gaming sessions. In contrast, others prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. For these individuals, switches with heavier actuation forces are preferred.
In this case, the KTT Rose switch would provide a more tactile and robust typing experience due to its higher bottom out force, while the SP-Star Yanyu switch would be lighter and more suitable for extended typing sessions. However, since the actuation force is unavailable for both switches, it is difficult to determine how their performance would differ in terms of triggering a keystroke. Nonetheless, based on the information provided, we can conclude that the KTT Rose switch is heavier in terms of bottom out force compared to the SP-Star Yanyu switch.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a keyboard switch is an important factor to consider when selecting a keyboard. In the case of the KTT Rose linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience a similar distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent and tactile feedback, making them suitable for users who prefer a shorter travel distance. However, it is important to note that the travel distance is equal for both switches, ensuring that users will receive similar results regardless of which switch they choose.
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 Rose comes in at $3.01 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
The KTT Rose linear switch is best known for its unique typing experience with the use of progressive springs, providing a substantial yet not heavy feel. When it comes to sound, the Rose switch is described as having a low-pitched tone, which gives it a more bass-heavy and mellow sound compared to higher-pitched switches. Additionally, the Rose switch is considered to have a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes and skill levels.
On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch is perfect for those seeking a more delicate typing experience or spending extended periods of time typing. The Yanyu switch is known for its crisp sound profile, offering a satisfying and satisfying "thocky" sound when pressed. Similar to the Rose switch, the Yanyu switch is also described as having a neutral sound profile, making it versatile for different uses and users.
In terms of feel, both the Rose and Yanyu switches provide a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users. Both switches are polished, meaning they have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Yanyu switch specifically offers a feathery feel, with exceptionally light key presses that reduce finger fatigue and make it comfortable for extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Yanyu switch is also described as having a subtle resistance, maintaining a light typing feel suitable for shared spaces.
Overall, both the KTT Rose linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch offer unique and desirable qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Rose switch provides a low-pitched sound and a substantial typing experience, the Yanyu switch offers a crisp "thocky" sound and a delicate typing feel. Consider your personal preferences and requirements when choosing between these switches, as they both deliver high-quality performance and can be a great addition to any mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Rose linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience and sound profile. If you prefer a medium-heavy typing experience with a unique, substantial feel, the Rose switch with its progressive springs would be a great choice. The Rose switch also offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, making it suitable for most intents and purposes.
On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter and more delicate typing experience, especially for long periods of typing, the Yanyu switch with its light bottom out force would be ideal. The Yanyu switch also has a crisp sound profile, described as neutral and thocky, producing a deep and satisfying sound when pressed.
Both switches share similarities in terms of feel, with a mild and polished typing experience. They are both suitable for most users and offer reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the decision between the Rose and Yanyu switches will come down to personal preferences for typing experience and sound profile. Consider your desired bottom out force and the type of sound you prefer while typing.
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