SP-Star Ayara vs. Kailh Box White
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the Kailh Box White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the SP-Star Ayara and the Kailh Box White are two popular options that offer distinct typing experiences. The Ayara is a linear switch that is best known for its medium heftness and hearty typing experience. With a soft bottom-out feel and a perfectly clacky sound profile, it provides a satisfying typing sensation. On the other hand, the Box White is a clicky switch that stands out for its maximum audio feedback. Typing on these switches elicits a unique "stepping on autumn leaves"-like crunch and offers an accented tactility. While both switches offer their own advantages, determining the best switch for you requires a deeper exploration of their characteristics and your personal preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Yes
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 White differ significantly in their composition, resulting in distinct sound profiles. The Ayara utilizes a nylon top housing, which is known for its softer nature and ability to absorb more sound. This characteristic leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the Ayara switches. In contrast, the Box White employs a polycarbonate top housing, a stiffer plastic that creates a sharper and more resonant sound. This creates a higher-pitched and crisper sound profile compared to the Ayara. Additionally, the polycarbonate housing of the Box White is translucent, making it ideal for showcasing RGB lighting effects.
Although the housing materials for the bottom housing of both switches are described as nylon, it is important to note that the qualities they bring to the switches remain the same. The nylon material used in both the Ayara and the Box White contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature and enhanced sound absorption abilities. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on both switches. Therefore, despite the difference in the top housing materials, the sound profiles elicited by the bottom housing remain consistent.
The distinction between the top and bottom housing materials becomes significant when considering the overall typing experience. When pressing down on a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing are more noticeable, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. In the case of the Ayara, the softer nylon bottom housing would contribute to a slightly softer and more cushioned feel when bottoming out. Conversely, the nylon bottom housing of the Box White would also provide a similar experience, resulting in a comfortable typing feel. On the other hand, the top housing materials would have more influence on the sound when releasing a key. The polycarbonate top housing of the Box White would produce a clear and resonant sound upon key release, while the nylon top housing of the Ayara would generate a deeper and fuller sound when letting go of a key.
In conclusion, the SP-Star Ayara and the Kailh Box White utilize different housing materials that significantly impact the sound profiles of the switches. The Ayara's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the Box White's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. However, both switches share the use of nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in similar sound profiles characterized by a deeper and fuller sound. The distinction between the top and bottom housing materials also affects the typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a larger role in the sound when releasing a key.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Kailh Box White clicky switch, there are a few notable differences. The Ayara switch has an actuation force of unavailable grams, while the Box White switch has an actuation force of 50 grams. Both switches have a bottom out force of medium weight, with the Ayara at 62 grams and the Box White at 60 grams. In terms of weight, the Ayara is slightly heavier in terms of bottom out force.
Considering the weight of a switch is important for various reasons. Some individuals prefer a lighter switch as it allows for longer periods of typing without strain, which is ideal for keyboards used for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, some users prefer a heavier actuation force for a more substantial typing experience. For these individuals, a switch with a heavier actuation force is recommended.
Although the specific actuation force for the Ayara switch is not provided, both switches can deliver similar results. The Box White switch's actuation force of 50 grams is a common and widely used force, making it a popular choice among users. Therefore, if a lighter actuation force is desired, users can still expect comparable performance from both switches.
In summary, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Kailh Box White clicky switch differ slightly in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Ayara is slightly heavier in terms of bottom out force, but both switches offer similar performance and cater to users' preferences for lighter or heavier typing experiences.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch is 4 mm, while the Kailh Box White clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Comparatively, the Ayara has a longer travel distance than the Box White. The Ayara's 4.0mm travel distance falls into the more traditional range, while the Box White's 3.6mm travel distance is slightly shallower. Gamers often prefer switches with shorter travel distances as they allow for faster response times. So, if you prioritize responsiveness, the Box White clicky switch would be a better choice. However, some individuals may find short travel distances to be too abrupt and prefer switches with more depth. In that case, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch with its longer travel distance would be a suitable option. Ultimately, it's a matter of personal preference and the desired typing or gaming 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 White comes in at $2.76 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 switch offers a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement. This makes it suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work. The sound produced by the Ayara switch is described as a soft bottom-out with a perfectly clacky profile. On the other hand, the Box White switch provides a resonant and high-pitched sound profile that creates an immersive auditory experience. It is often compared to the sound of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves.
As for the feel of the switches, both the Ayara and Box White switches are described as polished. This indicates that they have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. The materials used and/or factory lubing contribute to reduced friction and smooth key travel for both switches.
In conclusion, the Ayara and Box White switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound. The Ayara provides a neutral and clacky sound profile, while the Box White offers a resonant and high-pitched experience with a crunchy feel. Both switches have a polished feel, providing reduced friction and smooth key travel. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the individual's preference for sound and typing experience. If you prefer a neutral and clacky sound with a medium heft feel, the Ayara switch is recommended. Conversely, if you desire maximum audio feedback and a resonant, high-pitched sound with an accented tactility, the Box White switch would be a better choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the SP-Star Ayara and the Kailh Box White switches, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a hearty typing experience with a soft bottom-out feel and a perfectly clacky sound profile, the Ayara switches are a great choice for you. They have a medium bottom out force of 62 grams and provide a polished feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if maximum audio feedback is your priority, the Box White switches are the way to go. With a bottom out force of 60 grams, they offer an accented tactility and a "stepping on autumn leaves" crunch sound that many users find satisfying. Like the Ayara switches, the Box White switches also provide a polished feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In terms of sound, both switches offer a high-pitched profile, which produces sharp and crisp sounds when pressed. However, the Box White switches have an additional descriptor of being resonant, providing an immersive auditory experience with a clean and sharp sound profile. If you prefer a more neutral sound profile, the Ayara switches may be more suitable for you.
All in all, both the SP-Star Ayara and the Kailh Box White switches have their unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience. Consider your desired typing feel, sound preferences, and typing style to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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