KTT Kang White vs. SP-Star Yanyu

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the KTT Kang White and the SP-Star Yanyu. The Kang White is a linear switch that is best known for its exquisite representation of a poppy linear switch, providing a dazzling typing sound that is sure to impress. Moreover, its self-lubricating material ensures an unparalleled smoothness when typing. On the other hand, the Yanyu is also a linear switch but is renowned for delivering a more delicate typing experience, making it perfect for those who spend long periods of time typing. Its material blend gives it a crisp sound profile that adds to the overall typing satisfaction. While these general highlights offer a glimpse into the qualities of each switch, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your specific needs and preferences.

By the numbers

KTT Kang White Linear

SP-Star Yanyu Linear

$1.99 per 10

$5.80

$5.40 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The KTT Kang White and the SP-Star Yanyu both come with unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Kang White features a polycarbonate top housing, while the Yanyu utilizes a Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing. These differences in materials lead to contrasting sound profiles. The Kang White's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, thanks to its stiffness and clear translucency. In contrast, the Yanyu's blend offers a pleasant sound that is not particularly sharp but leans towards the brighter side. Despite the variations, both switches provide quality sound experiences, catering to different sound preferences.

Moving on to the bottom housings, the Kang White employs a nylon material while the Yanyu combines Polymer nylon and UHMWPE. The use of nylon in the Kang White elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Meanwhile, the Yanyu's unique blend of Polymer nylon and UHMWPE brings forth a distinctive sound profile that is pleasant, not particularly sharp, but still leaning towards brighter tones. Although the two switches differ in bottom housing materials, they both offer unique sound experiences that will cater to different sound preferences.

When it comes to pressing down and releasing a key, the housing materials of the switches play a significant role. The qualities of the bottom housing material impact the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down. In the case of the Kang White, the nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound experience. On the other hand, the Yanyu's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend bottom housing offers a unique sound profile that combines pleasant tones without being overly sharp. Conversely, the top housing material has more influence on the sound when a key is released. The Kang White's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound upon key release, while the Yanyu's blend leans towards a brighter sound. These distinctions in sound during key release provide users with diverse audio feedback based on their preference.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Kang White linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, there are notable differences. The Kang White has an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Yanyu's actuation force is unknown. Both switches have different bottom out forces, with the Kang White requiring 58 grams and the Yanyu only 43 grams. These variances suggest that the Kang White is slightly heavier overall compared to the Yanyu.

Considering weight is a crucial aspect, as it affects the typing experience in various ways. Those who prefer lighter switches may opt for the Yanyu, as it provides a more effortless typing sensation, convenient for extended periods of typing or gaming. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial and tactile experience may gravitate towards the Kang White, given its heavier bottom out force. This can provide a more satisfying push feel while typing.

While the actuation force of the Yanyu remains unknown, it is important to note that if it coincides with the 45 grams of the Kang White, users can expect a similar actuation experience from both switches. However, the discrepancy in bottom out force indicates that the overall typing feel may still differ between the two. All in all, the Kang White tends to be the heavier option, catering to those who prefer a stronger push, while the Yanyu offers a lighter alternative for those who value extended typing comfort.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Kang White linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, it is evident that both switches have an equal travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either switch, users will experience a consistent sensation of key travel. Therefore, whether one opts for the Kang White or the Yanyu, they can expect similar results in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Kang White linear switch is best known for its dazzling and poppy typing sound. The low-pitched sound profile of this switch produces a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. This creates a pleasant and enjoyable auditory experience while typing. In addition, the self-lubricating material of the Kang White switch ensures an unparalleled smoothness during key presses. This smoothness enhances the overall typing experience, making it satisfying and effortless.

On the other hand, the Yanyu linear switch is perfect for those seeking a delicate typing experience or for those who need to type for long periods of time. The Yanyu switch is described as having a crisp sound profile, which means it produces a clean and sharp sound when the keys are pressed. The sound is not overly loud or distracting, making it suitable for various environments. The Yanyu switch also falls into the neutral category in terms of sound, meaning it has a moderate sound profile that suits a wide range of users, whether beginners or advanced typists, and can be used at home or in a professional setting.

In terms of feel, specific information about the tactile characteristics of the Kang White switch is unknown. However, the Yanyu switch offers a mild typing experience with a range of gentle and comfortable qualities. It has a feathery feel, meaning it requires minimal effort to press the keys, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The Yanyu switch also has a subtle resistance that provides a gentle typing feel without being overly light or heavy. Additionally, this switch is described as polished, which means it has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.

Overall, both the Kang White and Yanyu switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you are looking for a switch with a dazzling and poppy sound, along with an unparalleled smoothness, the Kang White is a great choice. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch provides a delicate typing experience with a crisp sound profile and comfortable qualities such as a feathery feel and subtle resistance. Both switches fall into the neutral category in terms of sound, making them suitable for most users. Considering the available information, you can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel with these switches, while experiencing their individual characteristics.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a linear switch with a medium bottom out force, the KTT Kang White would be a great choice. This switch offers a dazzling typing sound and an unparalleled smoothness, thanks to its self-lubricating material. In terms of sound, the Kang White has a low-pitched profile, which produces a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Its neutral sound profile makes it suitable for various environments, whether you are a beginner or advanced user.

On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch would be a better option. These switches are perfect for those seeking a delicate typing experience or typing for long periods. The Yanyu switch has a crisp sound profile, thanks to its material blend. In terms of sound, the Yanyu has a neutral profile, which again makes it suitable for most users. Additionally, it exhibits a thocky characteristic, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed.

When it comes to the feel, the Kang White does not have specified descriptors. In contrast, the Yanyu offers a mild typing experience, being approachable to most users. It also has a feathery characteristic, reducing finger fatigue and making it comfortable for extended typing sessions. The Yanyu switch also has a subtle resistance, suitable for shared spaces, and a polished finish, resulting in a sleek and smooth typing experience.

Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Kang White and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switches will depend on your personal preferences. If you prefer a medium bottom out force, dazzling typing sound, and unparalleled smoothness, the Kang White is a great option. However, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, crisp sound profile, and characteristics like thocky and feathery, the Yanyu switch would be more suitable for you. Consider your desired typing experience and sound profile when making your decision.

Mentioned in this article

KTT Kang White Linear

$1.99 per 10

Learn more

SP-Star Yanyu Linear

$5.80

$5.40 per 10

Learn more