SP-Star Ayara vs. Akko V3 Crystal Pro
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch, both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Ayara is renowned for its medium heftiness, making it a great choice for those seeking a sturdy typing experience with a soft bottom-out feel and a clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the V3 Crystal Pro stands out with its fully polycarbonate construction, which influences both its bright and chirpy sound signature and its silky smooth typing experience. While the Ayara is categorized as 'Neutral', 'High-pitched', 'Polished' and the V3 Crystal Pro as 'Bouncy', 'Chirpy', 'Polished', it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Polycarbonate
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
18mm spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro, one can see distinct differences in the sound profiles they produce. The Ayara's nylon top and bottom housings result in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic absorbing more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the V3 Crystal Pro's polycarbonate top and bottom housings lead to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile as the stiffer plastic allows for a more clear and resonant sound. This difference in material composition results in unique typing experiences for users of each keyboard.
However, despite their differences in housing materials, both the Ayara and V3 Crystal Pro offer exceptional sound quality. The nylon top and bottom housing of the Ayara create a cohesive sound profile that offers a deep and rich typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a softer sound. Conversely, the polycarbonate top and bottom housing of the V3 Crystal Pro deliver a more distinct and sharp sound, appealing to users who enjoy a crisper typing experience. While the materials may differ, both keyboards excel in providing users with high-quality sound profiles that enhance the overall typing experience.
In terms of aesthetics, the housing materials of the Ayara and V3 Crystal Pro also play a significant role. The translucent polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Crystal Pro allows for RGB lighting to shine through, creating a visually appealing keyboard that is perfect for those who enjoy customizable lighting effects. In contrast, the solid nylon housing of the Ayara offers a more classic and muted look, appealing to users who prefer a sleek and understated design. Ultimately, the choice between the two housing materials will come down to personal preference in both sound profile and aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch, it is evident that the V3 Crystal Pro is lighter in terms of actuation force, requiring 48 grams to trigger a keystroke compared to the Ayara's unknown actuation force. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Ayara requiring 62 grams and the V3 Crystal Pro needing 60 grams. For those who prefer a lighter touch when typing or gaming for extended periods, the V3 Crystal Pro may be the better option. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Ayara. In terms of weight, the Ayara provides a medium actuation force and a medium bottom out force, while the V3 Crystal Pro offers a lighter actuation force and a similar bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirement.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch, it is clear that the Ayara has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the V3 Crystal Pro's 3.8 mm. The Ayara offers a more traditional travel distance, while the V3 Crystal Pro falls on the shallower side. Gamers looking for a faster response time may prefer the shorter travel distance of the V3 Crystal Pro, while those seeking a more substantial keypress may opt for the Ayara. Both switches offer different experiences in terms of key travel, catering to individuals with varying preferences.
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 Crystal Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Crystal Pro for $3.30.
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 with a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch stands out with a chirpy sound signature, adding a unique acoustic element to your typing experience. Both switches provide distinct sound profiles that can enhance your overall typing satisfaction depending on your personal preferences, keycap choices, and keyboard setup.
In terms of feel, the Ayara switch is known for its polished finish, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the V3 Crystal Pro switch provides a bouncy sensation with spring-like feedback, giving the keys a lively feel and added rebound when pressed. Both switches offer different tactile experiences that cater to individual preferences for typing comfort and feedback, providing users with versatile options to suit their typing style.
Considering all the available information, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Ayara switch provides a hearty typing experience with a clacky sound and polished feel, the V3 Crystal Pro switch stands out with its fully polycarbonate construction, chirpy sound profile, and bouncy feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and overall typing experience, ensuring that users can find a switch that meets their specific needs and enhances their typing satisfaction.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Akko V3 Crystal Pro linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a hearty typing feel with a soft bottom-out and clacky sound profile, the Ayara switches would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and bouncy typing experience with a bright and chirpy sound signature, the V3 Crystal Pro switches may be more suited to your liking. Both switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, so ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal typing preferences.
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