Durock Sea Glass vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the Durock Sea Glass and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing two popular linear mechanical keyboard switches, the Durock Sea Glass and the SP-Star Yanyu. The Sea Glass switch series by Durock is renowned for its captivating pastel colors and unique typing experience. With a distinct dryness, wispiness, and airiness, these switches provide a smooth and frictionless feel despite their 62g bottom-out force. Typing on Sea Glass switches also produces a uniquely hollow sound signature. On the other hand, the Yanyu switches offer a more delicate typing experience, perfect for those who type for extended periods. Known for its crisp sound profile, the Yanyu switch's material blend enhances its overall typing experience. Both switches have their own distinct characteristics and benefits. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
P3+
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
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 Durock Sea Glass and the SP-Star Yanyu both feature a housing material that is a blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE. This unique blend offers a sound profile that is described as pleasant, not particularly sharp but slightly brighter. Both switches also share the same qualities in terms of their top and bottom housing materials. This means that when pressing down on the switches, the bottom housing material will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material will affect the sound when releasing a key.
While the top and bottom housings of the Sea Glass and Yanyu switches have the same materials and qualities, the key difference, if any, lies in the design or construction of these components. It is possible that the shape, thickness, or internal structure of the top and bottom housings vary between the two switches, which can result in slight variations in sound and feel. However, overall, users can expect similar results from both switches in terms of the sound profile and key release experience.
The use of a blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE in the housing materials of the Durock Sea Glass and SP-Star Yanyu switches highlights the attention both manufacturers have given to producing a unique and pleasant sound profile. The choice of using these materials suggests that they have been carefully selected to provide a satisfying typing experience. The similarity in the descriptions of the sound profiles of both switches suggests that users can expect a consistently enjoyable sound when using either switch. Ultimately, whether one prefers the Sea Glass or the Yanyu will likely come down to personal preference in terms of other factors such as key weight, tactile feedback, and overall design.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Sea Glass linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Sea Glass switch has an actuation force of 45 grams, which is the force required to trigger a keystroke, and a slightly heavier bottom out force of 62 grams. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch's actuation force is currently unavailable, making it difficult to compare directly. However, the Yanyu switch does have a lighter bottom out force of 43 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Yanyu switch with its lighter bottom out force would be a suitable choice. It allows for a gentler push and may be more comfortable during longer typing sessions or gaming marathons. In contrast, the Sea Glass switch offers a more substantial typing experience with its slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces. This switch may be favored by users who prefer a stronger push feel and desire a more tactile typing experience.
Considering weight is essential when selecting switches for extended periods of typing or gaming. Lighter switches, like the Yanyu with its lower bottom out force, provide an advantage for prolonged use, reducing fatigue and enabling typists to continue without strain. Conversely, those who seek a more tactile satisfaction from their typing experience may opt for switches like the Sea Glass, with their heavier forces, ensuring a more substantial and pronounced keystroke.
In conclusion, while the actuation force of the Durock Sea Glass switch is known to be 45 grams, the unavailable actuation force for the SP-Star Yanyu switch makes it challenging to directly compare the two. However, the Sea Glass switch boasts a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Yanyu switch has a lighter bottom out force of 43 grams. Ultimately, personal preference and typing style will play a significant role in determining which switch suits an individual's needs and preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Durock Sea Glass linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, it is evident that the Sea Glass has a shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Yanyu has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. Both of these distances fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with 4.0 mm being the most common and 3.0 mm being the most shallow. However, in recent times, shorter travel distances have become popular among gamers due to their ability to provide faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, the Sea Glass with its shorter travel distance would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a more significant depth and feel that shorter travel distances can be too abrupt, then the Yanyu with its slightly longer travel distance might be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision should be based on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Sea Glass has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sea Glass for $4.87.
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
In terms of sound, the Durock Sea Glass switch offers a uniquely hollow sound signature, which adds a distinct character to the typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu switch has a neutral sound profile, providing a moderate and versatile option suitable for various environments and purposes. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
When it comes to feel, both the Sea Glass and Yanyu switches share similar qualities. They are described as providing a mild typing experience, offering a gentle resistance that is approachable to most users. Additionally, both switches are considered feathery, meaning they require little exertion from the fingers and reduce finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. These characteristics make them comfortable options for activities such as gaming, school, or work.
In conclusion, the Durock Sea Glass and SP-Star Yanyu switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Sea Glass switch provides a hollow sound signature that adds a unique touch to the typing experience, while the Yanyu switch offers a neutral sound profile suitable for most purposes. Both switches share a mild and feathery feel, making them comfortable and low-impact options. It is important to consider personal preferences and the specific use case when choosing between these two switches, as the subjective qualities can greatly impact the overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a medium bottom-out force and a distinct dry, wispiness, and airiness typing experience, then the Durock Sea Glass linear switch is the one for you. Despite its 62g bottom-out force, it possesses a weightlessness that defies expectations and offers frictionless typing. Additionally, the Sea Glass switches have a uniquely hollow sound signature. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom-out force and a more delicate typing experience, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch is the way to go. With its 43g bottom-out force, it provides a comfortable and low-impact typing feel, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The Yanyu switches also offer a crisp sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Sea Glass and SP-Star Yanyu switches depends on your preference for bottom-out force and typing experience.
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