Kailh Sage vs. SP-Star Yanyu

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Kailh Sage and the SP-Star Yanyu are two popular options with distinct features. The Sage is well-known for its clicky typing experience, offering a refreshing sharpness and a satisfying weightiness. On the other hand, the Yanyu is preferred by those seeking a more delicate typing experience, particularly if they spend long periods at the keyboard. Its material blend provides a crisp sound profile. While these general characteristics can help guide your decision, diving deeper into the specific qualities of each switch will ultimately help you determine the best fit for your typing preferences.

By the numbers

Housing materials

The housing materials of the Kailh Sage and the SP-Star Yanyu differ significantly. The Sage utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent quality of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. In contrast, the Yanyu features a unique blend of polymer nylon and UHMWPE in its top housing, offering a sound profile that is not particularly sharp but leans towards the brighter side. This blend provides a pleasant and distinct sound experience.

In terms of bottom housings, the Sage incorporates a nylon material, producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Yanyu utilizes the same polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend for its bottom housing. This unique blend once again contributes to the switch's overall sound profile, which is pleasant and distinct. While the Sage's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper sound, the Yanyu's blend contributes to a slightly brighter sound profile.

When comparing the impact of the top and bottom housings on the overall performance of the switches, it is important to note that they exhibit opposing effects. Pressing down on the switch will emphasize the qualities of the bottom housing, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. The Sage's nylon bottom housing will create a more pronounced bottom-out experience, while the Yanyu's blend will contribute to a unique sensation. On the other hand, the sound profile when releasing a key is primarily influenced by the top housing. Thus, the polycarbonate housing of the Sage and the unique blend in the Yanyu will shape the sound when letting go of a key.

In summary, the housing materials of the Kailh Sage and the SP-Star Yanyu offer distinct characteristics and sound profiles. The Sage's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound, while the Yanyu's blend of polymer nylon and UHMWPE leans towards a brighter tone. In terms of the bottom housings, the Sage's nylon yields a deeper sound, while the Yanyu's blend provides a slightly brighter tone. The impact of the housings differs depending on whether the switch is being pressed or released, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing shaping the sound when letting go of a key.

Weight

When comparing the Kailh Sage clicky switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. Unfortunately, the exact measurements for the actuation force of both switches are unavailable. However, it is known that the Sage has a bottom out force of 70 grams, which can be considered medium-heavy. On the other hand, the Yanyu has a lower bottom out force of 43 grams, making it a lighter option.

Considering the weight of a switch is important for various reasons. If one prefers a lighter feel, this allows for extended typing periods, making it ideal for work or long gaming sessions. For those seeking a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, switches with heavier forces are preferable.

While the actuation force of both the Sage and Yanyu is unknown, it is important to note that the actuation force is the force required to trigger a keystroke. Thus, in terms of actuation force, it cannot be conclusively determined whether they are the same or different. However, based on the provided information, it is evident that the Sage requires a heavier force to bottom out compared to the Yanyu.

In summary, the Kailh Sage clicky switch has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams (exact actuation force unknown), while the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch has a lighter bottom out force of 43 grams (exact actuation force unknown). Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Sage offering a potentially more substantial typing experience and the Yanyu providing a lighter feel for extended typing sessions.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Sage clicky switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, it is clear that there is a difference between the two. The Sage has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Yanyu has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Sage has a shorter travel distance compared to the Yanyu.

In terms of preferences, traditionally, a 4.0mm travel distance is considered standard, while a 3.0mm travel distance is shallower. However, with the increasing popularity of gaming, shorter travel distances are becoming more prevalent for faster response times. So, if you prefer a more responsive feel, the shorter 3.6mm travel distance of the Sage would be the better option. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt, and if you prefer a deeper key press, the longer 4mm travel distance of the Yanyu would be more suitable.

Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Kailh Sage clicky switch is best described as crunchy. This means that when pressed, the switch produces a sound similar to stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, which means it has a moderate sound profile that is suitable for most purposes. Additionally, the Yanyu switch can also produce a thocky sound, which is a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when the key is pressed and released. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

When it comes to feel, the Kailh Sage clicky switch offers an invigorating and sharp tactile experience. This means that the switch provides pronounced feedback, a moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel, resulting in an immersive typing sensation. The Sage switch's strong and crisp tactile bump is prominent and can be distinctly felt with each keypress. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch offers a milder and feathery typing experience. With its light actuation force, the Yanyu switch reduces finger fatigue and provides a comfortable typing experience for extended sessions such as gaming, school, or work. The Yanyu switch also falls into a safe middle ground in terms of sound and feel, making it approachable for most users.

In conclusion, the Kailh Sage clicky switch and SP-Star Yanyu linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Sage switch provides a heavy and crunchy clicky typing experience with pronounced feedback and a sharp tactile feel. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch offers a more delicate and mild typing experience with a neutral sound profile and a feathery, comfortable feel. Both switches have their unique advantages and are suitable for different preferences and typing needs. It is important to consider factors such as typing preferences, usage scenarios, and other keyboard components when choosing between these switches.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you're looking for a clicky typing experience with a heavier bottom out force, the Kailh Sage switches would be a great choice for you. These switches offer a sharp and refreshing clickiness, along with an invigorating and sharp tactile feel. They provide pronounced feedback and a reactive typing sensation. Additionally, if you enjoy the sound of crunchy autumn leaves, the Sage switches would be right up your alley. On the other hand, if you prefer a more delicate typing experience or need to use the switches for long periods of time, the SP-Star Yanyu switches would be the better option. With a lighter 43-gram bottom out force, these switches are suitable for extended typing sessions and reduce finger fatigue. They offer a mild and feathery feel, with a gentle resistance and smooth key travel. The Yanyu switches also provide a thocky sound profile, which is deep and satisfying. Overall, the choice between the Kailh Sage clicky switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing needs.

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