SP-Star Ayara vs. Outemu Crystal
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the Outemu Crystal switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the SP-Star Ayara and the Outemu Crystal. The Ayara switch stands out for its medium heftness, making it a great choice for those who prefer a hearty typing experience. Typing on these switches provides a soft bottom-out feel and a perfectly clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Crystal switch offers a fairly elastic typing feel and a medium-light weight, resulting in a unique, linear typing experience. When typing on the Crystals, you can expect a neutral sound profile. Both switches are categorized as high-pitched and polished, but if you're looking for chirpy feedback, the Crystal switch would be the way to go. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your specific preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Two-stage
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The SP-Star Ayara and the Outemu Crystal differ in their housing materials, with the Ayara featuring a nylon top and bottom housing, while the Crystal utilizes a polycarbonate top and bottom housing. In terms of sound profile, the Ayara's nylon housing creates a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic and higher sound absorption capabilities, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Crystal's polycarbonate housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound due to its relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound profile. Aesthetically, the polycarbonate housing of the Crystal is particularly advantageous if RGB lighting is to be used, as its translucency enhances the lighting effect.
When it comes to key feel, the qualities of the housing materials are distributed between the top and bottom of the switch. The impact on the bottom-out sound and feel is primarily influenced by the bottom housing, and since the Ayara and the Crystal have different bottom housings, this will result in a variation in the bottom-out sound and feel between the two switches. On the other hand, the sound when releasing a key will be more affected by the top housing. Therefore, the different housing materials of the Ayara and Crystal will lead to contrasting experiences in terms of both key feel and sound output.
While the Ayara and Crystal exhibit differences in their housing materials, there are also similarities in their sound profiles. Both the nylon top housing of the Ayara and the polycarbonate top housing of the Crystal contribute to a more resonant and fuller sound compared to harder plastics. Additionally, their respective bottom housings, despite being made of different materials, both aim to enhance the key feel and sound by absorbing and transmitting sound in different ways. Therefore, while there are distinct characteristics associated with each housing material, users can expect similar overall sound qualities from both the Ayara and the Crystal switches.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Outemu Crystal linear switch, a notable difference can be found in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Ayara switch has an unavailable actuation force, making it difficult to draw a direct comparison. However, its bottom out force is 62 grams, which falls under the medium range. On the other hand, the Crystal switch has an actuation force of 45 grams, making it lighter than the Ayara. Additionally, the Crystal switch has a bottom out force of 55 grams, which is classified as medium-light.
Considering the weight of the switches, it becomes evident that the choice between them depends on personal preference and typing requirements. For individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Crystal switch with its lower actuation and bottom out forces might be ideal. This lighter force allows for extended typing sessions without significant fatigue, perfect for those who use their keyboards for work or long gaming sessions.
On the contrary, some users seek a more substantial and tactile feel when typing. For these individuals, the Ayara switch with its unavailable actuation force can be a good option for a stronger push feel. The Ayara's bottom out force of 62 grams provides a more substantial typing experience compared to the Crystal switch.
In summary, the Ayara switch tends to offer a heavier and more substantial typing experience, while the Crystal switch provides a lighter feel. However, it is essential to note that without the specific actuation force of the Ayara switch, a direct comparison between the two switches' actuation forces cannot be made. Therefore, those seeking a similar typing experience to the Ayara can opt for the Crystal switch, as its medium-light bottom out force closely matches the Ayara's medium force. Ultimately, the choice between these switches should be based on personal preferences and specific typing needs.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch is the distance it travels from the top to the bottom, which is the sensation felt when you press down on a key. In the case of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Outemu Crystal linear switch, both switches have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same travel distance of 4 mm. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both the Ayara and the Crystal switches will offer similar results.
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 Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40 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 linear switch has 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 use it at home or work. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal linear switch also has a neutral sound profile, but it is described as slightly chirpy, adding a unique acoustic signature to the typing experience. Both switches are high-pitched, producing sharp and crisp sounds when pressed. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
As for feel, both the Ayara and Crystal switches are described as polished. This means that they have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. This polished feel is achieved through either the materials used or factory lubing, which reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel. With the medium heftiness of the Ayara switch, it is recommended for those who prefer a hearty typing experience, providing a soft bottom-out feel. On the other hand, the Crystal switches have a fairly elastic type feel and a medium-light weight, combining for a unique linear typing experience.
Overall, both switches offer similar qualities in terms of sound and feel. They both have neutral sound profiles, although the Crystal switch adds a slight chirpy element to its sound. Additionally, both switches have a polished finish, resulting in a smooth typing experience with reduced friction. While the Ayara switch is recommended for those who prefer a hearty typing experience, the Crystal switch offers a more elastic feel. Ultimately, your choice between the two will depend on your personal preferences and the specific typing experience you are seeking.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a more hearty typing experience with a medium bottom out force of 62 grams, we recommend the SP-Star Ayara linear switch. These switches provide a soft bottom-out feel and a clacky sound profile, which adds to the overall typing experience. Additionally, the Ayara switch offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use them at home or work. On the other hand, if you prefer a unique and linear typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams, the Outemu Crystal linear switch is a great choice. These switches have a fairly elastic feel and a neutral sound profile, along with a chirpy acoustic signature that sets them apart from other switches. Both switches offer a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your personal preferences for typing experience and sound profile.
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