SP-Star Ayara vs. HMX Cheese
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the HMX Cheese switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the SP-Star Ayara and the HMX Cheese mechanical keyboard switches, there are distinct differences that cater to varying preferences. The Ayara is known for its medium heftness and hearty typing experience, offering a soft bottom-out feel and a clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Cheese stands out for its unparalleled smoothness and ultra-light design, providing a satisfyingly poppy and crispy sound signature. While the Ayara falls under the categories of 'Neutral', 'High-pitched', and 'Polished', the Cheese's category remains unspecified. Each switch offers unique qualities that may appeal to different individuals based on their particular 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
43g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
46g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Two-stage
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the HMX Cheese are both made of nylon, which is known for its ability to produce a deep and full sound profile when typing. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This characteristic is consistent in both switches, making them ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience.
Despite both switches utilizing nylon for their housing materials, there may be slight differences in sound and feel depending on the design of the top and bottom housings. The bottom housing of a switch typically influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has more of an impact on the sound when releasing a key. This means that while the overall sound profile of both switches may be similar due to the nylon material, there could be subtle variations in the typing experience based on the specific design of the housing components.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the HMX Cheese offer a similar typing experience due to their use of nylon, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. The differences in sound and feel may come from the specific design of the top and bottom housings in each switch, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing impacting the sound when releasing a key. Overall, both switches are likely to provide a quiet and pleasant typing experience for users who appreciate the qualities of nylon housing.
Weight
The SP-Star Ayara linear switch has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is considered medium, while the HMX Cheese linear switch has a bottom out force of 46 grams, making it a lighter option. However, the actuation force for the Ayara is unknown, while the Cheese has an actuation force of 43 grams. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Cheese switch more appealing for extended typing or gaming sessions, while those seeking a more substantial typing experience may prefer the heavier bottom out force of the Ayara.Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The SP-Star Ayara linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer of the two options compared to the HMX Cheese linear switch with a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Ayara offers a bit more depth in key press, providing a more satisfying feel for those who prefer a longer travel distance. On the other hand, the Cheese's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preference and typing style. Both switches offer their own advantages, with the Ayara providing a more traditional key press experience and the Cheese catering to those who value speed and efficiency in their typing.
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 Cheese has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cheese for $3.79.
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
When it comes to sound, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for a wide range of users, whether they are beginners or advanced typists. On the other hand, the HMX Cheese linear switch boasts a unique clacky, poppy, and crispy sound signature that is sure to stand out. Depending on personal preference, the Ayara's soft bottom-out feel and clacky sound may appeal to those looking for a more traditional typing experience, while the Cheese's smoothness and distinct sound profile may attract users seeking a lighter switch option. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch is described as offering a polished typing experience, thanks to its smooth and refined finish. This results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing feel. On the other hand, information regarding the feel of the HMX Cheese linear switch is not provided. Users interested in a polished and sleek typing experience may find the Ayara switch to be a suitable choice.
Overall, both the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the HMX Cheese linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Ayara provides a hearty typing experience with a neutral sound profile and polished feel, the Cheese stands out with its ultra-lightness and distinct clacky sound. Depending on whether you prioritize sound, feel, or both in your mechanical keyboard experience, you can choose between these switches to achieve your desired typing experience. Additionally, keep in mind that personal preferences, along with factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, can also affect the overall typing experience with these switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are someone who prefers a solid typing experience with a medium actuation force, we highly recommend the SP-Star Ayara linear switch. These switches provide a soft bottom-out feel and a clacky sound profile, making them ideal for those who enjoy a hearty typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer an ultra-light switch with a bottom out force of 46 grams and a smooth typing experience, the HMX Cheese linear switch is the way to go. These switches offer a unique sound profile and smooth key travel, making them stand out from other switches on the market. Ultimately, the choice between the Ayara and Cheese switches will depend on your personal preferences for actuation force and sound profile.
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