SP-Star Ayara vs. HC Studio Crabapple
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the HC Studio Crabapple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the SP-Star Ayara and the HC Studio Crabapple mechanical keyboard switches, there are some key differences to consider. The Ayara is lauded for its medium heft, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a robust typing experience. With a soft bottom-out feel and a clacky sound profile, it offers a satisfying typing sensation. On the other hand, the Crabapple switches are crafted from POM, providing a smooth and frictionless typing journey. The dry smoothness of these switches, along with a subtle texture felt with each keystroke, sets them apart. While the Ayara is categorized as 'Neutral', 'High-pitched', and 'Polished', the Crabapple is labeled as 'Frictionless', 'Mild', 'Subdued', and 'Textured'. Each switch has its own strengths and appeal, but to truly understand which one is the best fit for you, let's delve deeper into the specifics of each switch.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Two-stage
Spring
Lengthened single-staged spring
Housing materials
The SP-Star Ayara utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housing materials, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile with a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the HC Studio Crabapple features POM top and bottom housing materials, creating a unique sound profile that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted. Despite the differences in materials, both switches offer a similar experience in terms of producing a deeper sound profile.
One key distinction between the Ayara and the Crabapple lies in the specific sound characteristics each housing material brings to the switches. The Ayara's nylon housing absorbs more sound due to its softer plastic composition, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound when typing. In contrast, the POM housing of the Crabapple offers a more muted sound profile that is characterized by its deep tones. This highlights how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall sound experience of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Furthermore, the split between top and bottom housing materials in a switch can have a noticeable effect on the typing experience. The qualities of the bottom housing, which include impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, are felt when pressing down on the switch. Conversely, the top housing has a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key. Understanding how each housing material contributes to the overall sound profile can help mechanical keyboard enthusiasts make informed decisions when selecting switches for their setups.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch, there is a noticeable difference in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Ayara does not have a specified actuation force, while its bottom out force is 62 grams, which is considered medium. On the other hand, the Crabapple has an actuation force of 37 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a lighter option. The Ayara provides a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force, while the Crabapple offers a lighter touch that may be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming. Both switches have their own advantages depending on personal preference, with the Ayara offering a more tactile feel and the Crabapple providing a smoother typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on whether the user prefers a lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch, we see that the Ayara has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Crabapple has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the Crabapple offers a slightly shallower keypress compared to the Ayara. For those who prefer a more responsive typing experience, the Crabapple may be the preferred choice due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, the Ayara's longer travel distance may appeal to those who enjoy a deeper keypress. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 HC Studio Crabapple has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Crabapple for $4.70.
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 linear switch offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for most users, with a moderate actuation force requirement. On the other hand, the Crabapple linear switch provides a subdued sound that is more dampened and subtle compared to most switches. This difference in sound can be attributed to the design and materials used in each switch, ultimately impacting the overall typing experience.
Moving on to feel, the Ayara linear switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Crabapple linear switch is frictionless, offering an extremely smooth and effortless typing journey with minimal resistance or friction when pressing the keys. Additionally, the Crabapple switch also features a mild and textured feel, creating a gentle typing experience that caters to a wider range of users.
Overall, while the Ayara and Crabapple linear switches offer different sound and feel qualities, both switches provide unique benefits that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer a hearty typing experience with a clacky sound profile like the Ayara, or an effortlessly frictionless typing journey with a more subdued sound like the Crabapple, both switches are designed to enhance the overall typing experience. It's important to consider your personal preferences and typing style when choosing between these two switches to ensure that you get the best results for your specific needs.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the HC Studio Crabapple linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a hearty typing feel with a clacky sound profile, the Ayara may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a smooth, frictionless typing journey with a mild, understated sound profile, the Crabapple switches would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferred typing experience, whether you lean towards a more polished and clacky feel with the Ayara or a frictionless and smooth feel with the Crabapple.
Mentioned in this article
