SP-Star Ayara vs. Akko V3 Cream Black Pro
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the SP-Star Ayara linear switch to the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch, it's clear that both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Ayara switch is renowned for its medium heftiness, making it ideal for those seeking a robust typing experience. With a soft bottom-out feel and a satisfyingly clacky sound profile, this switch falls under the categories of 'Neutral', 'High-pitched', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro switch stands out as an excellent choice for budget-conscious individuals looking for quality in their mechanical keyboards. Known for its poppy and clacky sound accompanied by a smooth feel, this switch is categorized as 'Creamy', 'High-pitched', 'Bouncy', 'Snappy', and 'Polished'. 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
55g
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
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Two-stage
Spring
20mm
Housing materials
Overall, the housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro are quite similar in terms of using nylon for both the top and bottom housings. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound that may be preferred by those looking for a quieter typing experience. In this aspect, both keyboards will likely offer similar sound profiles and typing experiences.
However, where the two keyboards differ is in the top housing material. The Ayara utilizes a nylon top housing, which contributes to its deeper and fuller sound profile, while the V3 Cream Black Pro features a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, polycarbonate is often used in clear housings to allow for RGB lighting, making the V3 Cream Black Pro a visually appealing choice for those who enjoy customizable lighting effects.
In terms of functionality, the bottom housing of a switch tends to have more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. Therefore, the differences in housing materials between the Ayara and V3 Cream Black Pro will likely be more noticeable in the overall typing experience rather than just in the sound profile. Ultimately, both keyboards offer unique advantages based on their housing materials, catering to different preferences for typing sound and feel.
Weight
The SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch both fall within the medium to medium-heavy weight category. The Ayara has an actuation force of None grams, which means it is likely very light and easy to trigger, while its bottom out force is 62 grams, providing a decent amount of resistance when fully pressed. On the other hand, the V3 Cream Black Pro has an actuation force of 55 grams, slightly lighter than the Ayara, but its bottom out force is 65 grams, making it slightly heavier overall. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Ayara may be the better choice, whereas the V3 Cream Black Pro would be ideal for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a slightly heavier press. Overall, both switches offer a different balance between actuation and bottom out forces, catering to various preferences.
Travel distance
The SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch both have different travel distances. The Ayara has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the V3 Cream Black Pro has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Ayara has a longer travel distance, making it ideal for those who prefer a more hearty depth when pressing down on the key. On the other hand, the V3 Cream Black Pro has a shorter travel distance, which is preferred by gamers for faster response times. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference on which one to choose for your keyboard.
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 Akko V3 Cream Black Pro has an MSRP of $3.77 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Cream Black Pro for $2.70.
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
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 enthusiasts. The sound produced is described as high-pitched, providing a sharp and crisp typing experience. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch also has a high-pitched sound profile, delivering a poppy and clacky sound that is complemented by smooth key presses. Both switches offer a unique sound experience that can be further influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch is noted for its polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch offers a creamy and bouncy typing sensation, allowing for effortless keystrokes that glide smoothly across the keys. Additionally, the V3 Cream Black Pro switch is described as snappy, providing a super responsive typing experience with lively key feedback. Both switches offer distinct tactile experiences that cater to different preferences in typing feel.
In conclusion, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ayara switch provides a clacky sound profile and a polished typing experience, while the V3 Cream Black Pro switch delivers a poppy sound and a creamy, bouncy feel. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and typing sensation, either switch can provide a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience. Ultimately, both switches offer quality performance that can enhance your overall typing experience, ensuring that you get reliable and enjoyable results regardless of your choice.
Conclusion
Therefore, in conclusion, if you are someone who values a hearty typing experience with a soft bottom-out feel and clacky sound profile, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch with a medium bottom out force of 62 grams is the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are a budget-minded individual seeking high-quality switches that offer a unique poppy and clacky sound with notable smoothness, the Akko V3 Cream Black Pro linear switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams is the perfect fit for your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a polished typing feel or a creamy, bouncy, snappy experience, and whether you prefer a neutral or high-pitched sound profile. Choose wisely based on your personal typing preferences and needs.
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