Jwick Taro vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the Jwick Taro 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 to consider are the Jwick Taro, a tactile switch, and the SP-Star Yanyu, a linear switch. Both switches offer their own unique benefits, making them suitable for different preferences and needs. The Taro switches are renowned for their cozy typing experience and subdued color scheme, providing a snappy, medium-level of tactility accompanied by acute and crisp clacks. On the other hand, the Yanyu switches are perfect for those seeking a more delicate typing experience or for individuals who spend extended periods typing. With their material blend, the Yanyu switches produce a crisp sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so that you can make the best decision based on your personal preferences and requirements.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Jwick Taro and the SP-Star Yanyu differ significantly, resulting in distinct sound profiles and aesthetic qualities. The Taro utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it an excellent choice for those who prioritize sound quality. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for the effective use of RGB lighting.
In contrast, the Yanyu features a blend of polymer nylon and UHMWPE for its top housing. This unique blend offers a pleasant sound profile that is not particularly sharp but leans towards the brighter side. While it may not provide the same level of clarity as polycarbonate, the Yanyu's top housing still delivers an enjoyable auditory experience. Aesthetically, both switches diverge as the Taro showcases a transparent polycarbonate housing, while the Yanyu incorporates a polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend, likely resulting in a different visual appeal.
Moving onto the bottom housings, the Taro incorporates a nylon material, which has long been favored for switch housings. Typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. The inherent softness of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Yanyu utilizes a blend of polymer nylon and UHMWPE for its bottom housing, mirroring its top housing blend. This unique combination contributes to a sound profile that is also pleasing, lacking sharpness but showcasing a brighter tone.
It is important to note that the qualities brought by each housing material are distributed between the bottom and top housings of the switch. When pressing down on the switch, one will feel the impact and qualities of the bottom housing, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. While both switches offer distinct characteristics due to their housing materials, similarities may arise regarding their pleasant sound profiles, albeit with varying degrees of pitch and sharpness.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Jwick Taro tactile switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, there are some notable differences. The Taro switch has an actuation force of unavailable grams, while the Yanyu switch also has an actuation force of unavailable grams. Therefore, in terms of actuation force, it is difficult to draw a direct comparison. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Taro switch requires 67 grams, which falls into the medium-heavy range, while the Yanyu switch requires 43 grams, which is considered light.
Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing between these switches. Some individuals may prefer lighter switches as they allow for longer periods of typing without fatigue. This is particularly advantageous for those who use their keyboards extensively for work or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, there are individuals who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. For such individuals, switches with heavier forces would be more suitable.
In terms of weight, the Taro switch can be considered heavier due to its higher bottom out force of 67 grams. This would provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Conversely, the Yanyu switch can be considered lighter with its lower bottom out force of 43 grams, making it suitable for individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience.
While the actuation forces for both switches are unknown, it is safe to assume that they are likely to provide similar results in terms of when the keystroke is triggered. However, it is important to note that the bottom out force differs significantly between the two switches. This suggests that the overall typing experience will vary, with the Taro switch offering a heavier and more substantial feel, while the Yanyu switch provides a lighter and potentially faster typing experience.
Travel distance
The Jwick Taro tactile switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch have different travel distances. The Taro has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Yanyu has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Yanyu has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Taro. Generally, a 4.0 mm travel distance is considered the most traditional, while 3.0 mm is the most shallow. However, shorter travel distances have become more popular recently, especially among gamers who value faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive feel, the Taro with its shorter travel distance would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, some people find short travel distances to feel too abrupt and prefer a deeper press. For those individuals, the Yanyu with its longer travel distance would be a better option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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, the Jwick Taro tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile with a medium actuation force requirement. This means that it produces a moderate and pleasant sound when pressed, suitable for both beginners and advanced users. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch also has a neutral sound profile but with an additional descriptor of "thocky." This means that it produces a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed and released. Both switches offer a similar sound experience overall, with the Yanyu having a slightly more pronounced and satisfying sound profile due to its "thocky" characteristic.
In terms of feel, the Jwick Taro tactile switch provides a buttery typing experience, indicating a smooth and fluid keystroke. It also has a stepped feel, which means that it has two stages of tactility with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch offers a mild and feathery typing experience. It is exceptionally light to press, reducing finger fatigue and making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. It also has a subtle and polished feel, with gentle resistance and smooth key travel. Overall, the Taro switch offers a seamless and uniform typing sensation, while the Yanyu switch provides a more gentle and light typing experience.
Considering all the available information, both the Jwick Taro tactile switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch offer their own unique qualities. The Taro switch provides a snappy tactility and a cozy typing experience, while producing acute and crisp clacks. The Yanyu switch, on the other hand, offers a delicate typing experience, perfect for long durations of typing, and produces a crisp sound profile. In terms of sound, both switches have a neutral profile, but the Yanyu switch offers a more satisfying and deep "thocky" sound. In terms of feel, the Taro switch provides a buttery and stepped experience, while the Yanyu switch offers a mild, feathery, subtle, and polished feel. Overall, both switches provide enjoyable typing experiences, with the Taro switch offering more tactile feedback and the Yanyu switch providing a lighter and gentler feel.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are someone who values a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a comfortable typing experience, the Jwick Taro tactile switch would be a great choice for you. Its snappy tactility and acute clacks provide a satisfying typing feel. Additionally, if you prefer a switch with a neutral sound profile, the Taro switch fits the bill.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a lighter bottom out force and a delicate typing experience, especially for long periods of time, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch would be more suitable for you. Its light actuation force reduces finger fatigue and makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions. Furthermore, if you appreciate a crisp sound profile and a switch with a polished finish, the Yanyu switch offers a refined typing experience.
Ultimately, the decision between the Jwick Taro tactile switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch depends on your preferences and typing needs. Both switches provide distinct qualities that cater to different typing styles. Whether you prioritize tactile feedback and medium-heavy force or a lighter touch with a delicate sound profile, you can choose the switch that best suits your preferences and typing requirements.
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