TTC Speed Silver vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the TTC Speed Silver and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two options stand out: the TTC Speed Silver and the SP-Star Yanyu. Both switches fall under the linear category, offering a smooth and consistent typing experience. The Speed Silver is renowned for its emphasis on speed and precision, making it ideal for users who prioritize quick and accurate typing. With its light-medium level of resistance and reduced travel distance, actuation becomes effortless and swift. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch caters to those who prefer a more delicate typing experience, especially during long hours of use. Its unique material blend provides a crisp sound profile, adding a subtle yet satisfying touch to each keystroke. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best switch decision for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The TTC Speed Silver and the SP-Star Yanyu differ in terms of their housing materials. The Speed Silver features a polycarbonate top housing, while the Yanyu utilizes a blend of polymer nylon and UHMWPE. The polycarbonate top housing of the Speed Silver creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, which is ideal for those looking for a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it perfect for showcasing RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the Yanyu's blend of polymer nylon and UHMWPE offers a pleasant sound profile that is not particularly sharp but leans more towards the brighter side. This unique blend provides a different auditory experience compared to the Speed Silver.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the Speed Silver is equipped with a nylon bottom housing, while the Yanyu uses the same polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend as its top housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, enhances the sound produced by the switches by absorbing more sound and creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend in the Yanyu's bottom housing offers a similar sound profile to its top housing. It provides a pleasant sound that is not too sharp but adds a touch of brightness to the overall typing experience.
It's important to note that the qualities of the housing materials are split between the top and bottom housings of the switches. When you press down on a switch, you will feel the impact and qualities of the bottom housing, which affects the bottom-out sound and feel. Meanwhile, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound produced when you release a key. Ultimately, both the Speed Silver and the Yanyu offer unique sound profiles due to their different housing materials, allowing users to choose based on their preference for sharper and crisper sounds or a more pleasant and subdued tone.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Speed Silver and SP-Star Yanyu linear switches, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The TTC Speed Silver switch has an actuation force of 45 grams, providing a medium-light touch needed to trigger a keystroke. In comparison, the actuation force for the SP-Star Yanyu switch is unavailable, making it difficult to determine its specific force requirement. However, the bottom out force of the TTC Speed Silver is 55 grams, slightly heavier than the Yanyu's 43 grams. This indicates that the Speed Silver switch offers a slightly more substantial typing experience, as it requires a stronger push to fully depress the keys.
Considering weight as a factor, those who prefer lighter switches might opt for the Yanyu, allowing for comfortable typing over extended periods, which is ideal for work or lengthy gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals seeking a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Speed Silver switch. Both switches offer distinct advantages based on individual preference, ensuring that users can find a suitable option for their typing needs.
Travel distance
The TTC Speed Silver linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch have different travel distances. The Speed Silver has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Yanyu has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Speed Silver's travel distance is shorter, making it a preferable option for gamers who value faster response times. On the other hand, the Yanyu's longer travel distance provides a deeper feel, which some individuals may prefer for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and whether one prioritizes a shorter and more responsive feel or a longer and more substantial typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
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, both the TTC Speed Silver and SP-Star Yanyu switches have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various purposes, whether you're a beginner or advanced user, and whether you'll be using them at home or work. However, the Yanyu switch also offers a thocky sound profile, which produces a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when the key is pressed and released. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be affected by other factors such as your choice of keyboard board and keycaps.
In terms of feel, both switches provide a mild typing experience that would be approachable to most users. The Speed Silver switch is also described as polished, meaning it has a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience. This is achieved through either the materials used or factory lubing, which reduces friction and provides smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch offers a feathery feel, with an exceptionally light actuation force that requires minimal exertion from your fingers. This makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions and reduces finger fatigue. Additionally, the Yanyu switch is also described as having a subtle resistance, maintaining a light typing feel, and suitable for shared spaces.
Overall, the TTC Speed Silver and SP-Star Yanyu switches have similar qualities in terms of sound and feel. Both switches provide a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various purposes. They also offer a mild typing experience and a polished finish, resulting in smooth and refined key travel. However, the Yanyu switch offers the added benefit of a thocky sound profile, as well as a feathery feel and subtle resistance that reduce finger fatigue and make it comfortable for extended typing sessions. Depending on your preference and usage, you can achieve similar results with either switch.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you value a fast and precise typing experience, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch would be the best choice for you. With a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams, these switches provide a light-medium level of resistance, allowing for quick and effortless actuation. The Speed Silver switches also have a pristine sound profile, described as neutral, which makes them suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user in a home or work environment.
On the other hand, if you are looking for a more delicate typing experience or plan to type for long periods of time, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch would be more suitable. With a light bottom out force of 43 grams, these switches offer a feathery and subtle feel, reducing finger fatigue and making them comfortable for extended typing sessions. The Yanyu switches also have a crisp sound profile, described as neutral with a thocky option available, providing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound.
Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Speed Silver and SP-Star Yanyu linear switches depends on your specific preferences and typing needs. Consider factors such as typing speed, typing style, desired sound profile, and comfort level to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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