SP-Star Ayara vs. Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2)
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the SP-Star Ayara and the Gateron Baby Raccoon. The Ayara switch is best known for its medium heftness, making it ideal for those who prefer a hearty typing experience. It offers a soft bottom-out feel and a perfectly clacky sound profile, which adds to its overall appeal. On the other hand, the Baby Raccoon switch stands out with its bright sound signature and refreshingly crisp type feel. This is partly due to its lengthened switch stems, which are 0.64mm longer than typical stems. The result is an extraordinary linear switch that can best be described as "marbley." While these general observations provide a good starting point in choosing the right switch for your needs, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Two-stage
Spring
20mm long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the SP-Star Ayara and the Gateron Baby Raccoon switches differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Ayara features a nylon top housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound. The nylon material is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder tone. On the other hand, the Baby Raccoon utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that provides a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the polycarbonate top housing of the Baby Raccoon is especially beneficial for those planning to use RGB lighting due to its translucency.
When it comes to their bottom housings, both the Ayara and the Baby Raccoon employ nylon as the material of choice. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is softer and absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. With both switches featuring nylon bottom housings, they are likely to provide a similar experience in terms of sound, eliciting a deep and full effect.
Considering the impact on the overall keyboard experience, the choice of top and bottom housings is significant. The properties of the bottom housing, shared by both switches, play a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and feel. The softer nylon material absorbs more sound and creates a duller, rounder tone upon bottoming out. Conversely, the top housing, which differs between the Ayara and the Baby Raccoon, greatly influences the sound when releasing a key. The nylon top housing of the Ayara contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile upon key release, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Baby Raccoon creates a sharper and crisper sound.
In summary, the housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the Gateron Baby Raccoon switches diverge in their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Ayara's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, while the Baby Raccoon's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper and higher-pitched tone. Both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deep and full sound upon bottoming out. The choice of housing materials significantly impacts the sound and feel of the switches, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and the top housing influencing the sound upon releasing a key.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch, there are a few notable differences. The Ayara's actuation force is not specified, while the Baby Raccoon requires a force of 55 grams to trigger a keystroke. Both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the Ayara measuring at 62 grams and the Baby Raccoon at 63 grams. In terms of weight, the Ayara remains uncertain, while the Baby Raccoon is lighter with an actuation force of 55 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Baby Raccoon may be more suitable as it requires less force to activate the keystrokes. This can be beneficial for extended typing sessions or lengthy gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial push feel when typing may find the Ayara to be a better option. The Ayara's unlisted actuation force suggests it may require more force, providing a stronger tactile feedback for those seeking a more pronounced typing experience. Overall, both switches offer a medium bottom out force, ensuring a similar level of keypress impact for users.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch, it is evident that the Ayara has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Baby Raccoon has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Ayara's 4.0 mm travel distance is more in line with the traditional distance, while the Baby Raccoon's 3.6 mm is slightly shallower. In recent times, there has been a rise in popularity for shorter travel distances, especially among gamers who prioritize faster response times. Therefore, if you are seeking a more responsive typing experience, the Baby Raccoon with its shorter travel distance may be the preferred choice. However, it is worth noting that some individuals find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt or lacking in depth. In such cases, the Ayara with its longer travel distance would be a suitable option for those who desire a more substantial keystroke feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience one is seeking.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Gateron Baby Raccoon (V2) comes in at $5.50 per 10 switches.
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 Ayara linear switch is best described as having a clacky sound profile with a neutral overall tone. It produces a moderately sharp and crisp sound when pressed, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch is known for its resonant and marbley sound signature. The sound profile is clean, high-pitched, and sharp, providing an immersive auditory experience. The Baby Raccoon switch is ideal for those who appreciate a lively and distinct sound when typing. It is worth noting that the sound of switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Regarding feel, the Ayara linear switch offers a polished typing experience. With its smooth and refined finish, the switch allows for reduced friction and smooth key travel. Typing on this switch provides a sleek sensation and a soft bottom-out feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch offers a creamy and bouncy typing experience. It provides a smooth and buttery sensation, as if gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. The switch also offers a spring-like or elastic feedback, giving a lively feel and a rebound when pressed. Additionally, the Baby Raccoon switch has an invigorating feel, with pronounced feedback and a snappy and reactive sensation.
Taking into account all the available information, the Ayara linear switch is best suited for those who prefer a hearty typing experience with a clacky sound profile. It offers a neutral sound and a polished feel, providing a moderate typing experience. The Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch, on the other hand, offers a bright and marbly sound signature, providing a high-pitched and resonant auditory experience. It provides a creamy and bouncy feel, with a smooth and buttery typing experience. Both switches offer unique qualities, and the choice ultimately depends on personal preference. If you enjoy a clacky and hearty typing experience, the Ayara switch would be the better choice. However, if you prefer a bright and marbly sound with a creamy and bouncy feel, the Gateron Baby Raccoon switch would be more suitable.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a hearty typing experience with a soft bottom-out feel and a clacky sound profile, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. The Ayara switch has a medium bottom-out force of 62 grams, making it suitable for most typing preferences. In terms of sound, the Ayara offers a neutral option for those who prefer a moderate sound profile, as well as a high-pitched option for those who enjoy a sharp and crisp sound when typing. When it comes to feel, the Ayara provides a polished switch with reduced friction and smooth key travel, resulting in a sleek typing experience.
On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a bright sound signature and a refreshingly crisp type feel, the Gateron Baby Raccoon linear switch would be a great choice for you. The Baby Raccoon switch has a slightly higher bottom-out force of 63 grams, still within the medium range. It features lengthened switch stems, which contribute to its unique sound profile and create a marbley sensation when typing. The Baby Raccoon offers resonant, marbly, and high-pitched options in terms of sound, catering to different auditory preferences.
When it comes to feel, the Baby Raccoon offers a creamy typing experience with smooth and buttery key travel. This can be attributed to lubrication applied at the factory or specific materials used. Additionally, the Baby Raccoon also provides a bouncy and invigorating feel, giving you a spring-like feedback and a reactive typing sensation. Like the Ayara, the Baby Raccoon features a polished switch, ensuring reduced friction and a sleek typing experience.
Ultimately, your choice between the SP-Star Ayara and the Gateron Baby Raccoon will depend on your individual preferences for typing experience, sound profile, and feel. Consider the descriptions provided and choose the switch that aligns with your desired typing characteristics. Happy typing!
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