SP-Star Ayara vs. Kailh Box Navy
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the Kailh Box Navy switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
In the world of mechanical keyboards, two popular switch options are the SP-Star Ayara and the Kailh Box Navy. Both of these switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Ayara switch is known for its medium heftness and is recommended for those who enjoy a robust typing experience. With a soft bottom-out feel and a perfectly clacky sound profile, typing on the Ayara switches is a delight. On the other hand, if you crave a heavy typing experience and love the sound and tactility of a clicky switch, then the Box Navy switches are a perfect fit for you. These switches bring back the nostalgia of vintage buckling keyboards from the 80s with their heftiness and signature sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
90g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Two-stage
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the Kailh Box Navy switches differ significantly. The Ayara features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing. In contrast, the Box Navy utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, allowing for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the Box Navy's translucent polycarbonate top housing is advantageous for those who want to use RGB lighting.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Ayara and Box Navy switches employ nylon as their material. This similarity means that typing on both switches will elicit a similar deep and full sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, users can expect a consistent auditory experience when using either switch.
It is important to note that if a switch has different housing materials for the top and bottom, the qualities associated with each material will be divided between the two parts of the switch. When pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing's characteristics will be more noticeable, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will play a greater role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, in switches where the top and bottom housings differ, the overall sound and feel may be slightly altered based on which part of the switch is being engaged.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch, there are noticeable differences. The Ayara has an unknown actuation force, while the Box Navy requires a force of 60 grams to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Ayara has a moderate 62-gram requirement, whereas the Box Navy demands a heavier 90 grams.
Considering weight, some users may prefer a lighter switch like the Ayara for extended typing sessions at work or during long gaming sessions. The lighter actuation force allows for a more effortless typing experience, reducing finger fatigue and enabling prolonged use. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Box Navy's heavier actuation force. This provides a stronger push sensation, offering a more satisfying typing experience for those who desire a tangible feedback response.
While the specific actuation force of the Ayara is unknown, it is worth noting that both switches feature a heavier bottom out force compared to their actuation force. This means that when pressing all the way down, users will experience slightly more resistance with the Ayara due to its 62-gram bottom out force, compared to the Box Navy's 90-gram requirement. However, it should be noted that while the forces differ between the two switches, both will deliver similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch have different travel distances. The Ayara has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Box Navy has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Ayara has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Box Navy. 4.0mm is the most traditional travel distance, offering a balance between depth and responsiveness. On the other hand, 3.6mm is slightly shallower, which may appeal to gamers who prioritize faster response times. However, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt, and may prefer the switch with the longer travel distance for a more substantial feel. Overall, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
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 Kailh Box Navy 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
The subjective sound qualities of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch are neutral and high-pitched. When typing on the Ayara, you can expect a moderate sound profile that suits most intents and purposes. It is not overly rich or bassy, making it a suitable switch for beginners or advanced users, whether you plan to use it at home or work. On the other hand, the Kailh Box Navy clicky switch produces a resonant and crunchy sound. This switch offers a higher-pitched sound profile that provides an immersive auditory experience. If you enjoy the sound of stepping on crisp and crunchy autumn leaves, the Box Navy switch is an excellent choice.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the SP-Star Ayara is described as polished. This means that the switch has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. The reduced friction and smooth key travel make it a pleasure to type on. As for the Kailh Box Navy, it is characterized as having a sharp, invigorating, and stiff tactile feel. The strong and crisp tactile bump of the Box Navy switch provides high feedback intensity, allowing you to feel each keypress distinctly. The switch requires a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom out, creating a snappy and reactive typing sensation.
In summary, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch offers a medium heftness, perfect for those who prefer a hearty typing experience. It provides a soft bottom-out feel and a clacky sound profile. The Kailh Box Navy clicky switch, on the other hand, is ideal for those seeking a heavy typing experience reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards. It produces a resonant sound with a crunchy feel. Both switches have unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you prefer a switch with a smooth and polished feel, go for the Ayara. If you enjoy a sharp and invigorating tactile experience, the Box Navy is the way to go.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a medium typing experience with a soft bottom-out feel and clacky sound, the SP-Star Ayara linear switches are an excellent choice. These switches have a bottom out force of 62 grams, providing a satisfying typing experience without requiring too much force. They have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and can be used at home or work. The Ayara switches also have a polished feel, resulting in smooth key travel and reduced friction.
On the other hand, if you are seeking a heavy typing experience and love the sound and tactility of a clicky switch, the Kailh Box Navy switches are perfect for you. With a bottom out force of 90 grams, these switches offer a more pronounced tactile bump and a crisp, resonant sound reminiscent of vintage buckling keyboards from the 80s. The Box Navy switches provide an invigorating and immersive typing sensation, with a sharp feedback intensity. However, it's important to note that these switches require a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom out compared to other switches, so you'll need to apply more force when pressing the keys.
Ultimately, the choice between the SP-Star Ayara linear switches and Kailh Box Navy clicky switches depends on your preferences for typing experience, sound, and feel. Consider whether you prefer a medium or heavy typing experience, the type of sound profile you prefer (neutral or high-pitched for Ayara, resonant or crunchy for Box Navy), and the feel you want (polished for Ayara or sharp, invigorating, and stiff for Box Navy). By considering these factors, you can choose the mechanical keyboard switches that best suit your needs and preferences.
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