Gateron Aliaz vs. SP-Star Ayara
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the SP-Star Ayara switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch to the SP-Star Ayara linear switch, there are clear differences in their design and performance. The Aliaz switches are tailored for quiet environments like the office, offering a medium-heavy weight for a substantial typing experience with a muted and silky feel. On the other hand, the Ayara switches are recommended for those who prefer a hearty typing experience, with a medium heftiness and a soft bottom-out feel accompanied by a clacky sound profile. While the Aliaz switches provide a pronounced typing feedback without the noise, the Ayara switches offer a satisfying tactile feel and sound. 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
60g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Two-stage
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Aliaz and the SP-Star Ayara, one can see that both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This means that both switches will have a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. However, the Aliaz's top housing is more likely to be used in combination with RGB lighting due to its translucency, while the Ayara's nylon top housing will create a deeper and fuller sound profile. This means that while both switches will have a clear and resonant sound, the Ayara may have a slightly rounder and duller sound in comparison to the Aliaz.
On the other hand, the bottom housings of the Aliaz and the Ayara differ in material, with the Aliaz featuring a polycarbonate bottom housing and the Ayara featuring a nylon bottom housing. The use of polycarbonate in the Aliaz's bottom housing will contribute to a sharper and crisper sound profile, similar to the top housing. In contrast, the nylon bottom housing of the Ayara will create a deeper and fuller sound profile with a duller and rounder tone. This means that when pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing will have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, with the Aliaz providing a clearer and resonant sound compared to the Ayara.
Overall, while the Aliaz and Ayara switches have different top and bottom housing materials, both switches offer unique sound profiles. The combination of polycarbonate top and bottom housing in the Aliaz will result in a clear, sharp, and resonant sound profile, while the nylon top and bottom housing of the Ayara will create a deeper and fuller sound with a duller tone. The differences in housing materials between the two switches highlight how material choice can significantly impact the sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch has a higher actuation force of 60 grams compared to the SP-Star Ayara linear switch which has an unknown actuation force. The Aliaz also has a heavier bottom out force of 75 grams, while the Ayara has a bottom out force of 62 grams. This makes the Aliaz switch heavier in terms of force required for both actuation and bottoming out. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of use, the Ayara switch may be the better option. On the other hand, for users who prefer a more substantial typing feel with a stronger push, the Aliaz switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for typing force.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the SP-Star Ayara linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, the amount of distance traveled from the top to the bottom will be identical. As a result, users can expect similar typing experiences in terms of key travel and actuation depth when using either of these switches. With a matched travel distance, both switches offer consistent and predictable tactile feedback and actuation points, making them popular choices among keyboard enthusiasts and typists alike.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
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 it comes to sound, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch is known for its muted profile, providing a softer and quieter typing experience ideal for office environments or for those who prefer a more discreet sound. On the other hand, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch offers a neutral sound profile with a high-pitched element, creating a clacky and sharp sound when pressed. This makes the Ayara switches more suitable for those who enjoy a bit of auditory feedback while typing. However, it is important to note that the sound produced by either switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, both the Aliaz and Ayara switches are described as offering a polished typing experience, thanks to their smooth and refined finish. The Aliaz switch provides a silky feel, enhancing the overall smoothness of the typing experience and reducing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Similarly, the Ayara switch also offers a polished feel, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel for a sleek typing experience. This makes both switches a great choice for those who prioritize a comfortable and effortless typing feel.
In conclusion, the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and SP-Star Ayara linear switch each have their own distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Aliaz switch is tailored for a quieter typing experience with a medium-heavy weight, while the Ayara switch offers a hearty typing experience with a clacky sound profile. Both switches provide a polished and smooth feel, making them suitable for users who prefer a comfortable typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound and typing feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the SP-Star Ayara linear switch, consider the environment in which you'll be typing. If you value a quieter typing experience and prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback with a heavier bottom-out force, the Aliaz switches would be the ideal choice for you, especially in office settings. On the other hand, if you enjoy a hearty typing experience with a softer bottom-out feel and clacky sound profile at a moderate bottom-out force, the Ayara switches would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific typing feel and sound you're looking for in your mechanical keyboard.
Mentioned in this article
