Bsun Akashi vs. SP-Star Ayara
An in-depth look at the Bsun Akashi and the SP-Star Ayara switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the SP-Star Ayara linear switch, it is evident that both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Akashi is known for its innovative design with a UPE stem, POM top, and nylon bottom, creating a distinct sound profile that is crisp and rich in tone. On the other hand, the Ayara switch is praised for its medium weight and satisfying clacky sound, providing a hearty typing experience. While the Akashi is described as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', and 'Snappy', the Ayara is categorized as 'Neutral', 'High-pitched', and 'Polished'. Each switch offers its own advantages, making them suitable for specific preferences. 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
37g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
UPE
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage extended spring
Spring
Two-stage
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Bsun Akashi and the SP-Star Ayara both utilize nylon in their construction, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. However, the Akashi's POM top housing provides a unique sound that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted compared to the Ayara's nylon top housing. This difference in material can result in slightly varied sound experiences for users, with the POM top housing potentially offering a more distinct sound profile.
On the bottom housing side, both the Akashi and Ayara utilize nylon, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. This similarity in material suggests that users can expect a consistent sound experience in terms of depth and fullness when typing on switches from both keyboards. The bottom housing's impact on the bottom-out sound and feel will likely be comparable between the two keyboards, providing a familiar typing experience for users who prefer the qualities of nylon in their switch housing.
In summary, while both the Bsun Akashi and the SP-Star Ayara use nylon in their bottom housings to create a deeper and fuller sound profile, the Akashi's POM top housing offers a more unique and potentially muted sound experience compared to the Ayara's nylon top housing. The split between different housing materials in each keyboard influences the overall sound and feel of typing on the switches, with the bottom housing contributing more to the bottom-out sound and feel, whereas the top housing plays a significant role in the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, users can expect a consistent sound experience in terms of depth and fullness when typing on switches from both keyboards.
Weight
In comparing the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the SP-Star Ayara linear switch, we can see that the Akashi has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the Ayara's unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Akashi requires 43 grams while the Ayara needs 62 grams, making the Akashi the lighter of the two switches. This means that the Akashi would be more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer typing sessions without as much fatigue. On the other hand, the Ayara provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force, ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel while typing. Both switches offer different experiences, catering to the preferences of users who prioritize either a lighter or heavier typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the SP-Star Ayara linear switch, it is clear that the Akashi has a shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Ayara has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. The difference may seem minimal, but for those who value faster response times, the Akashi may be the preferred option due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial key press may find the Ayara to be more to their liking. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and individual typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Akashi has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Akashi for $3.70.
The SP-Star Ayara has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ayara 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 comparing the sound qualities of the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the SP-Star Ayara linear switch, the Akashi is known for its clacky sound profile, characterized by a sharp and percussive sound when pressed. This is achieved through its unique stem and housing combination, offering a bright and crisp bottom-out sound with deep acoustic richness. In contrast, the Ayara switch is described as having a neutral sound profile with a high-pitched tone, making it suitable for various purposes. The Ayara switch provides a clacky sound that is moderately sharp and crisp, catering to those who prefer a more standard sound profile.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Akashi switch is known for providing a creamy, frictionless, polished, and silky typing experience. With a smooth and buttery sensation while typing, users can expect effortless keystrokes with minimal resistance and a refined finish. On the other hand, the Ayara switch offers a polished feel, indicating a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and sleek key travel. Both switches aim to enhance the typing experience with their respective tactile feedback and smooth key actuation, ensuring a comfortable and responsive typing feel.
In conclusion, the Bsun Akashi linear switch and SP-Star Ayara linear switch offer unique sound and feel qualities to cater to different preferences and typing styles. While the Akashi switch boasts a clacky sound with creamy, frictionless, and silky feel options, the Ayara switch provides a neutral sound with a polished typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer distinctive characteristics that can elevate the typing experience for newcomers and experienced users alike. Ultimately, selecting either switch will result in a satisfying and reliable typing experience, tailored to personal preferences and typing requirements.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when choosing between the Bsun Akashi linear switch and the SP-Star Ayara linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a light bottom-out force and a unique tactile experience with a bright, crisp sound profile, the Akashi may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium bottom-out force and a hearty typing experience with a soft bottom-out feel and clacky sound profile, the Ayara could be more suitable. Additionally, if you enjoy a creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, snappy, or easy-to-press feel, the Akashi offers a variety of typing experiences, while the Ayara is known for its polished feel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for bottom-out force, sound profile, and typing feel. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences for an ideal mechanical keyboard experience.
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