SP-Star Ayara vs. HMX Blue Topaz
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the HMX Blue Topaz switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the SP-Star Ayara and HMX Blue Topaz are both top contenders in the linear switch category. The Ayara is favored for its medium heftiness, providing a hearty typing experience with a soft bottom-out feel and clacky sound profile, making it ideal for those who enjoy a tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Blue Topaz stands out for its super smooth actuation and lightweight feel, making typing effortless and enjoyable. Its housing, adorned with glitter, adds a touch of elegance while producing a pleasing clacky sound. Both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different 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
N/A
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
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
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the HMX Blue Topaz, we can see that they both use nylon for their bottom housing. This means that both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the relatively softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. The bottom housing's impact on the bottom-out sound and feel will be similar in both switches, creating a duller and rounder sound overall. However, it is important to note that the Ayara's top housing is made of nylon, while the Blue Topaz utilizes polycarbonate. This key difference will result in a different sound profile, as polycarbonate is stiffer and creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound.
Despite the similarities in the bottom housing material, the Ayara and Blue Topaz will offer distinct sound profiles due to their differing top housing materials. While both switches use nylon for the bottom housing, the Ayara's nylon top housing will produce a deeper and fuller sound profile, whereas the Blue Topaz's polycarbonate top housing will result in a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, the Blue Topaz's clear polycarbonate housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through, providing a visually appealing feature that the Ayara's opaque nylon housing cannot match. This distinction highlights the importance of top housing material in influencing the overall sound and aesthetic experience of a switch.
Overall, the choice between the SP-Star Ayara and the HMX Blue Topaz will come down to personal preferences in sound and aesthetics. While both switches use nylon for the bottom housing, the difference in their top housing materials – nylon for the Ayara and polycarbonate for the Blue Topaz – will lead to contrasting sound profiles. Whether you prefer a deeper, fuller sound with the Ayara or a sharper, crisper sound with the Blue Topaz, understanding the impact of housing materials on switch performance is crucial in making an informed decision. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, showcasing the versatility and customization options available in the mechanical keyboard market.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch, it is evident that the Blue Topaz is the lighter option. The Ayara has an actuation force of None grams, making it unknown, and a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is medium. In contrast, the Blue Topaz has an actuation force of 40 grams, providing a light touch, and a bottom out force of 48 grams. The difference in actuation force between the switches is quite significant, with the Ayara being much lighter in this aspect. Weight considerations play a crucial role in determining the ideal switch for different users. Those who prefer a lighter actuation force may opt for the Blue Topaz for extended typing or gaming sessions, while individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Ayara's heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The SP-Star Ayara linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch has a travel distance of 3.9 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Ayara being slightly longer than the Blue Topaz. Gamers may prefer the Blue Topaz for its slightly shorter travel distance, allowing for quicker response times during intense gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Ayara with its slightly longer travel distance. Overall, both switches offer similar experiences with only a slight variation in travel distance.
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 HMX Blue Topaz has an MSRP of $4.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Blue Topaz for $3.49.
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 HMX Blue Topaz linear switch provides a clacky sound that is sharp and percussive, adding an auditory delight to the typing experience. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that can enhance the overall typing experience depending on individual preferences and settings such as the choice of board and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the SP-Star Ayara switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the HMX Blue Topaz switch is known for its easy-to-press nature, offering gentle resistance and requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Both switches offer distinct tactile sensations that cater to different typing preferences and ergonomic needs.
Overall, while the SP-Star Ayara linear switch is recommended for those seeking a hearty typing experience with a soft bottom-out feel, the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch stands out for its super smooth actuation and lightweight feel. Whether choosing the Ayara for its clacky sound profile or the Blue Topaz for its visual and auditory delight, users can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch option. Ultimately, the decision between the two will come down to individual preferences in sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the HMX Blue Topaz linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience and bottom out force. If you enjoy a medium heft and a clacky sound profile, the Ayara switch with its 62-gram bottom out force may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lightweight feel and smooth actuation, the Blue Topaz switch with its 48-gram bottom out force and glittery housing might be more appealing. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a hearty typing experience or a breezy keystroke feel. Both switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, so choose the one that best suits your typing style and preferences.
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