TTC Venus vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the TTC Venus and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Venus and the SP-Star Yanyu mechanical keyboard switches, it's clear that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Venus is renowned for its innovative internal design, providing a seamless and frictionless typing experience with a distinctive "Q-texture" that adds a springy resistance reminiscent of chewy mochi or tapioca pearls. This switch is ideal for those seeking a smooth and engaging typing experience with light actuation and muted sound signature. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch offers a delicate typing experience suitable for long periods of use, with a crisp sound profile that is subtle and polished. While the Venus excels in providing a buttery and gummy typing feel, the Yanyu stands out for its feathery and subtle keypresses. 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
52g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
1.80 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
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Lengthened 20.5mm spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Venus and the SP-Star Yanyu offer unique characteristics that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The Venus's POM top housing provides a deeper and relatively muted sound, whereas the Yanyu's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing offers a sound profile that is brighter but not particularly sharp. Both housing materials aim to enhance the auditory experience of using the switches, albeit in different ways.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Venus utilizes a polycarbonate material to create a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the Yanyu's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend bottom housing maintains a pleasant and slightly brighter sound profile. The choice of bottom housing material can significantly impact the sound and feel of the switch when bottoming out, highlighting the importance of selecting the appropriate material for desired results.
While the top and bottom housings of the Venus and Yanyu switches differ in material composition, both serve to enhance the overall sound profile of the switches. The top housing influences the sound when releasing a key, with the POM top housing of the Venus producing a deeper sound compared to the Yanyu's brighter blend material. On the other hand, the bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, with the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Venus creating a sharper sound and the Yanyu's blend bottom housing contributing to a pleasant and slightly brighter sound profile. Ultimately, the choice of housing materials in both switches play a crucial role in shaping the user experience.
Weight
The TTC Venus linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 45 grams compared to the unknown actuation force of the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch. However, the bottom out force of the Yanyu is lighter at 43 grams compared to the 52 grams of the Venus. This means that the Venus switch provides a medium-light typing experience, while the Yanyu switch offers a lighter touch. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Yanyu, while those who prefer a bit more resistance may opt for the Venus. Both switches provide different levels of force, allowing users to choose based on their preference for prolonged typing sessions or a more substantial typing feel.
Travel distance
The TTC Venus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Yanyu switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Venus switch. The Venus switch falls on the shorter end of the spectrum, ideal for those seeking a faster response time, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch provides a slightly deeper feel when pressed, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial key press. Both switches offer a different tactile experience based on their travel distance, so choosing between them ultimately depends on individual preference.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Venus has an MSRP of $7.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Venus for $5.09.
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 TTC Venus linear switch boasts a low-pitched and muted sound profile, creating a quiet and soothing typing experience. The neutral and subdued sound signature of the Venus switch ensures that each keystroke is met with a soft and gentle auditory response. On the other hand, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch offers a neutral and thocky sound, providing a deep and satisfying tone when pressed. Both switches offer a pleasant sound profile, with the Venus leaning towards a more subtle and muted tone, while the Yanyu delivers a rich and deep sound that resonates with each key press.
Moving on to feel, the TTC Venus linear switch is renowned for its buttery and frictionless typing experience, offering a smooth and effortless keystroke with a matte sensation that is both engaging and comfortable. The Venus switch also provides a gummy and mild typing feel, making it approachable for most users seeking a refined tactile experience. Conversely, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch offers a mild and feathery typing sensation, with a polished finish that ensures a sleek and smooth key travel. The Yanyu switch also provides a subtle resistance that is gentle yet responsive, making it suitable for shared spaces due to its non-resonant sound signature.
In conclusion, both the TTC Venus linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch offer unique and desirable qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Venus switch excels in providing a muted and frictionless typing experience with a buttery sensation, while the Yanyu switch delivers a deep and satisfying thocky sound with a feathery and polished feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and tactile feedback, users can choose between the Venus for a quieter and smoother typing experience or the Yanyu for a more resonant and luxurious feel. Overall, both switches promise a delightful typing experience that will enhance any mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Venus linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, consider the unique characteristics of each. If you prioritize a slightly heavier bottom out force and a smoother, more engaging typing experience with a muted sound profile, the TTC Venus may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch, a crisp sound profile, and a more delicate typing experience, the SP-Star Yanyu switch could be the perfect fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style.
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