SP-Star Ayara vs. KTT Darling
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the KTT Darling switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the SP-Star Ayara and KTT Darling both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Ayara is a linear switch that is best known for its medium heftiness, providing a hearty typing experience with a soft bottom-out feel and a clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the KTT Darling also a linear switch, offers a typing sensation that is chewy and substantial, with a pronounced bounciness and a high-pitched, resonant sound profile. While the Ayara is categorized as 'Neutral', 'High-pitched', and 'Polished', the Darling is characterized as 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', and 'Resonant'. Each switch has its own unique qualities that make it appealing to different users, so 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
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the SP-Star Ayara and the KTT Darling switches both play a significant role in the overall sound profile of the switches. The Ayara's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. In contrast, the Darling's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound due to its stiffer nature, which leads to a clearer and more resonant sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Darling switch is particularly beneficial for those who want to utilize RGB lighting, as its translucency enhances the visual appeal.
While the Ayara and Darling switches both feature a nylon bottom housing, their overall sound profiles may differ due to the combination of top and bottom housing materials. The nylon bottom housing of both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound and create a duller, rounder sound. However, the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel may vary between the two switches. The use of different materials in the top and bottom housings allows for a distinct sound experience when pressing down and releasing a key on each switch.
In summary, the choice of housing materials in the SP-Star Ayara and the KTT Darling switches ultimately affects the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. While the Ayara utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound, the Darling combines polycarbonate and nylon to achieve a sharper, higher-pitched sound with clear resonance. The split between top and bottom housing materials in the switches emphasizes the importance of each component in shaping the overall sound profile and feel of the typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the KTT Darling linear switch, it is evident that the Ayara has a higher bottom out force of 62 grams compared to the Darling's 53 grams, making the Ayara the heavier switch in terms of bottom out force. However, the Darling has a lower actuation force of 45 grams, while the Ayara's actuation force is unspecified, making the Darling the lighter switch in terms of actuation force. Both switches fall within the medium to medium-light range in terms of force required. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods may lean towards the Darling, while those looking for a more substantial typing feel may prefer the Ayara. Ultimately, the decision will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The SP-Star Ayara linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the KTT Darling linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Ayara offers a more traditional travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a deeper keypress feel. On the other hand, the Darling provides a slightly shallower travel distance, which can be favorable for gamers seeking faster response times. Both switches offer a different experience in terms of tactile feedback, with the Ayara providing a more deliberate keypress and the Darling offering a quicker and more responsive feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for keypress depth and responsiveness.
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 KTT Darling has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Darling for $3.90.
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, making it versatile for various usage scenarios. On the other hand, the KTT Darling linear switch provides a clacky and resonant sound that is crisp and engaging. If you prefer a high-pitched and lively sound, the Darling might be more to your liking compared to the Ayara's softer clack. However, both switches offer distinct auditory feedback that can enhance the typing experience, especially when paired with different keyboards and keycaps.
Moving on to feel, the Ayara switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction. In contrast, the KTT Darling switch offers a bouncy sensation, giving a spring-like feedback that adds a playful bounce to each keystroke. Depending on your preference for a smoother typing experience or a more dynamic key feel, you may gravitate towards the Ayara or Darling switch for their respective tactile qualities.
In conclusion, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the KTT Darling linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Ayara provides a clacky sound with a polished feel, the Darling offers a resonant sound and bouncy feedback. Whether you prioritize auditory feedback or tactile sensations in your mechanical keyboard experience, both switches have their own strengths that can cater to different preferences. Experimenting with these switches on your preferred keyboard setup will ultimately determine which one aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering whether to choose the SP-Star Ayara linear switch or the KTT Darling linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing experience you are seeking. If you prefer a medium heftness with a soft bottom-out feel and clacky sound profile, then the Ayara switch would be a suitable choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a linear switch with a chewy and substantial typing sensation, along with pronounced bounciness and a resonant, high-pitched sound upon bottoming out, then the KTT Darling switch may be more appealing to you. Both switches offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel, so it is important to consider what qualities you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch before making your decision.
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