SP-Star Ayara vs. Gateron CAP Anniversary
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the Gateron CAP Anniversary switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the SP-Star Ayara linear switch to the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch, it's clear that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Ayara switch is known for its medium heftiness, providing a hearty typing experience with a soft bottom-out feel and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the CAP Anniversary switch stands out for its innovative CAP structure, resulting in exceptionally smooth keystrokes thanks to aerodynamic principles and reduced resistance. While the Ayara switch offers a high-pitched and neutral feel, the CAP Anniversary switch provides a snappy and creamy typing experience. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Gold-plated 20mm spring
Housing materials
Comparing the housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the Gateron CAP Anniversary, we find that the Ayara features a nylon top housing while the CAP Anniversary has a polycarbonate top housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, tends to absorb more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. In contrast, polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate allows for the transmission of RGB lighting, making it ideal for aesthetic purposes. Despite their differences, both materials impact the overall sound profile of the switches in unique ways.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Ayara and the CAP Anniversary utilize nylon for this component. This means that typing on switches from either keyboard will elicit a similar deep and full sound profile. Nylon, known for its sound absorption properties due to its softer nature, contributes to a duller and rounder sound when compared to harder plastics. In this aspect, the housing materials of these two keyboards align, providing a consistent typing experience in terms of sound profile and feel.
When considering how the housing materials affect the overall typing experience, it is important to note that the qualities of the bottom housing have more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the combination of nylon and polycarbonate in the Ayara and CAP Anniversary allows for a balance between deep, full sound and clear, resonant tones during typing. Whether you prefer the softer, more absorbing qualities of nylon or the crisper, higher-pitched characteristics of polycarbonate, both keyboards offer a unique typing experience based on their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch, there are some noticeable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Ayara has an actuation force of None grams, making it very light, while the CAP Anniversary has an actuation force of 50 grams, slightly heavier. Both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the Ayara at 62 grams and the CAP Anniversary at 65 grams. The Ayara provides a lighter typing experience, which may be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming, while the CAP Anniversary offers a slightly heavier push feel for those seeking a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
Both the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users can expect a consistent feeling in terms of key travel when using either of these switches. The 4 mm travel distance provides a satisfying tactile response while typing, offering a good balance between comfort and efficiency. Overall, whether you choose the Ayara or the CAP Anniversary switch, you can expect a similar typing experience in terms of 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 Gateron CAP Anniversary has an MSRP of $4.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the CAP Anniversary for $4.10.
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 with a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch's sound profile is not specified, so it is difficult to directly compare the two switches in this aspect. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is influenced by various factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Ayara switch is characterized as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience due to its smooth finish. In contrast, the Gateron CAP Anniversary switch offers a combination of descriptors, including snappy and creamy, suggesting a responsive and buttery typing feel. Additionally, it also shares the polished descriptor with the Ayara switch, indicating a similar smoothness in key travel.
Taking into account the available information, it is clear that both the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. While the Ayara switch is known for its hearty typing experience with a clacky sound profile and polished feel, the CAP Anniversary switch boasts exceptional smoothness and stability, with a unique stem design for improved keystrokes. Ultimately, both switches may provide a satisfying typing experience, but individuals' preferences in sound and feel will determine which switch is the better choice for them.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Gateron CAP Anniversary linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a medium typing force and enjoy a hearty typing experience with a soft bottom-out feel, the Ayara switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize smooth keystrokes with reduced resistance and minimal wobble, the CAP Anniversary switch, with its unique stem design, would be a great option. Additionally, if you prefer a neutral sound profile, the Ayara switch would suit your preferences, while the CAP Anniversary offers options like snappy or creamy key feel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and what features you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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