SP-Star Ayara vs. Gateron Beer
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the Gateron Beer switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Gateron Beer tactile switch offer unique characteristics for different typing preferences. The Ayara switch provides a medium heftiness that appeals to those seeking a robust typing experience, with a soft bottom-out feel and a clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Beer switch stands out with its vibrant translucent green color, lightweight design, and stepped tactility that offers a subtle typing experience. While the Ayara switch is categorized as 'Neutral', 'High-pitched', and 'Polished', the Beer switch is categorized as 'Clacky', 'Easy-to-press', and 'Stepped'. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences, but diving deeper into their specific characteristics can help you make an informed decision.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
38g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Two-stage
Spring
22mm lengthened gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The SP-Star Ayara and Gateron Beer switches both offer unique qualities with their housing materials. The Ayara features a nylon top housing that creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic absorbing more sound. In contrast, the Beer utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper and crisper sound profile with its stiffer plastic material. While the Ayara's nylon bottom housing contributes to a rounder sound profile, the Beer's polycarbonate bottom housing enhances the clarity and resonance of the switch's sound.
Despite their differences, both the Ayara and Beer switches prioritize the impact of their housing materials on sound quality. The split qualities between the top and bottom housings demonstrate how each material influences the overall typing experience. The Ayara's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper sound on bottom-out, while the Beer's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper and crisper sound. On the other hand, the Ayara's nylon top housing affects the sound when releasing a key, while the Beer's polycarbonate top housing enhances the sound profile during typing.
In terms of aesthetics, the Ayara and Beer switches differ in their use of housing materials to achieve specific visual effects. The clear polycarbonate top housing of the Beer switch allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the overall appearance of the switch. In comparison, the nylon housing of the Ayara may not offer the same translucency for RGB lighting effects. Despite these visual differences, both switches offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials, catering to individual preferences for typing experiences.
Weight
The SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Gateron Beer tactile switch differ in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Ayara has an actuation force of None grams, making it lighter in terms of triggering a keystroke, while the Beer has an actuation force of 38 grams. In contrast, the Ayara has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is heavier compared to the Beer's 50 grams. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming may lean towards the Gateron Beer tactile switch, while those seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the SP-Star Ayara linear switch. Both switches offer unique benefits based on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Gateron Beer tactile switch, the Ayara has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Beer's 3.4 mm. The Ayara offers a more traditional distance, while the Beer provides a slightly shallower feel. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Beer for faster response times, while those who want a more robust key press may opt for the longer travel distance of the Ayara. Both switches offer different experiences in terms of travel distance, so the choice ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style.
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 Beer has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Beer for $4.59.
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 SP-Star Ayara linear switch offers a neutral sound profile, suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Gateron Beer tactile switch has a distinct clacky sound signature, providing a sharp and percussive typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound, the Ayara delivers a moderate and versatile option, while the Beer offers a more vibrant and lively typing sound.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Ayara is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Gateron Beer tactile switch is known for being easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance during key presses and requiring minimal force to activate. Additionally, the Beer switch features a stepped tactility, providing a subtle two-stage bump sensation during typing.
Taking into account the available information, it is evident that the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Gateron Beer tactile switch offer different but equally appealing qualities. The Ayara excels in providing a hearty typing experience with a soft bottom-out feel and a clacky sound profile, while the Beer switch stands out for its lightweight feel, stepped tactility, and distinct clacky sound signature. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. However, it is worth noting that both switches are designed to enhance the overall typing experience and are sure to deliver satisfactory results.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Gateron Beer tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a hearty typing experience with a soft bottom-out feel and clacky sound profile, then the Ayara switch would be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a switch with gentle resistance that is easy to press, offering a subtle stepped tactility and a clacky sound signature, then the Gateron Beer switch would suit your preferences better. Ultimately, consider the sound and feel characteristics that align with your typing preferences when making your decision between these two switches.
Mentioned in this article
