Akko V3 Silver Pro vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Silver Pro and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Akko V3 Silver Pro and the SP-Star Yanyu mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique advantages depending on your typing preferences. The Akko V3 Silver Pro is tailored for gamers, featuring a light actuation force and shortened travel distance for quick and effortless keystrokes, accompanied by a pleasing bassy sound. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu is ideal for those seeking a delicate typing experience or typing for extended periods, with a material blend that produces a crisp sound profile. While the Akko V3 Silver Pro is characterized as 'Easy-to-press' and 'Feathery', the SP-Star Yanyu is labeled as 'Neutral' and 'Feathery'. 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
40g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
13.8mm spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Silver Pro and the SP-Star Yanyu, it is clear that both switches prioritize creating a unique sound profile for users. The V3 Silver Pro utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that resonates clearly. On the other hand, the Yanyu features a Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend for its top housing, offering a pleasant and bright sound profile that is not overly sharp. Both switches aim to provide users with an enhanced auditory experience, albeit through different material compositions.
When it comes to the bottom housing of the switches, the V3 Silver Pro opts for nylon, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This results in a duller and rounder sound that adds to the overall typing experience. In contrast, the Yanyu also uses a Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend for its bottom housing, offering a similar unique sound profile that is pleasant and bright. Both switches prioritize creating a satisfying typing sound that enhances the user's overall experience, albeit through different material blends.
Overall, while the housing materials of the Akko V3 Silver Pro and the SP-Star Yanyu differ, both switches strive to provide users with a unique and pleasant typing sound. The polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Silver Pro creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, while the Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing of the Yanyu produces a brighter and pleasant sound. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the V3 Silver Pro offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend bottom housing of the Yanyu also contributes to a unique sound experience. Users can expect to enjoy a distinct auditory experience with either switch, tailored to their specific preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, we see that both switches have relatively light actuation and bottom out forces. The Akko V3 Silver Pro has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, while the SP-Star Yanyu has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 43 grams. Both switches provide a light typing experience, making them suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming. However, the slight difference in bottom out force may result in a slightly firmer feel with the Yanyu switch. For individuals who prefer a slightly heavier typing feel, the Akko V3 Silver Pro may be the better option due to its slightly higher bottom out force. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding typing force and feel.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, we can see that the V3 Silver Pro has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Yanyu has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The V3 Silver Pro, with its shorter travel distance, would be preferred by those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch, with its longer travel distance, would be a better choice for those who prefer a more substantial key press feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key press depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Silver Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Silver Pro for $3.10.
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 Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch is known for its high-pitched and crisp sound profile, offering a sharp and precise auditory feedback with each keystroke. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch provides a more neutral sound experience with a thocky characteristic, resulting in a moderate and satisfying sound when pressed. While the V3 Silver Pro leans towards a higher-pitched sound, the Yanyu delivers a deeper and more rich sound profile, catering to different preferences in keyboard switch sounds.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch offers an easy-to-press sensation with its creamy and feathery attributes, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience. The polished finish of the switch contributes to a sleek and refined keystroke, reducing friction and adding to the overall comfort of typing on this switch. In contrast, the SP-Star Yanyu switch offers a mild and subtle typing experience, characterized by a gentle resistance that is still light and approachable. The Yanyu switch also features a feathery feel, similar to the V3 Silver Pro, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions without causing finger fatigue.
Overall, the Akko V3 Silver Pro and SP-Star Yanyu linear switches present distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The V3 Silver Pro excels in providing a high-pitched and easy-to-press typing experience with a creamy and polished feel, making it ideal for gamers seeking quick and effortless keystrokes. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch offers a more neutral and thocky sound profile, along with a mild and subtle feel that is gentle on the fingers, suitable for users looking for a comfortable and approachable typing experience. Regardless of the differences, both switches aim to enhance the typing experience through their unique sound and feel characteristics, ensuring that users can enjoy a satisfying and tailored performance based on their preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch or the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, you should take into account your specific preferences and needs. If you are a gamer looking for switches engineered for speed and responsiveness, the V3 Silver Pro with its light actuation force and shortened travel distance would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prioritize a delicate typing experience with a crisp sound profile for long typing sessions, the Yanyu switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches boils down to whether you value gaming performance or a more subtle and comfortable typing feel. Choose wisely based on your individual requirements and enjoy the typing experience that best suits your needs.
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