SP-Star Ayara vs. Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the SP-Star Ayara linear switch to the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch, there are notable differences that cater to different preferences. The Ayara switch is praised for its medium heftness, making it ideal for those seeking a robust typing experience with a soft bottom-out feel and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the EF Grayish switch is crafted with custom molds from Gateron's Everfree sub-brand, offering a medium weight, neutral sound signature, and a reasonable price point, making it a standout default tactile option. Both switches fall under the 'Neutral' category, but the Ayara is categorized as 'High-pitched' and 'Polished', while the EF Grayish is labeled 'Stepped' and 'Snappy'. These general pointers can help guide your decision on which switch to choose based on your typing preferences; 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
59g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
One key difference between the SP-Star Ayara and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish is the material used for the top housing. The Ayara utilizes nylon, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the EF Grayish features a polycarbonate top housing, providing a sharper and crisper sound profile as polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic. This results in a more clear and resonant sound, especially beneficial for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. While both materials serve different purposes, they both contribute to enhancing the overall sound experience of the switches.
In contrast, when it comes to the bottom housing, both the Ayara and EF Grayish utilize nylon. This classic switch housing material offers a deep and full sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. Therefore, despite differences in their top housings, both switches provide a similar typing experience in terms of bottom-out sound and feel. The use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures a consistent tactile response and sound quality across both switches, showcasing the reliability and effectiveness of this material in switch design.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches plays a significant role in shaping the sound profile and typing experience. While the Ayara and EF Grayish may differ in their top housing materials – nylon for Ayara and polycarbonate for EF Grayish – both switches showcase the importance of material selection in achieving desired sound characteristics. Whether it is a deeper and fuller sound profile of nylon or a sharper and crisper sound profile of polycarbonate, each material brings its unique attributes to enhance the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, there are some notable differences. The Ayara has an actuation force of None grams, while the EverFree Grayish has an actuation force of 59 grams. On the other hand, the Ayara has a bottom out force of 62 grams, while the bottom out force of the EverFree Grayish is unknown. This makes the Ayara switch lighter in terms of actuation force, but heavier when comparing bottom out force.
For some users, the lighter actuation force of the Ayara may be preferable for longer typing sessions or gaming, as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke. On the other hand, the heavier bottom out force of the Ayara may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation force and bottom out force. Users looking for a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Ayara, while those seeking a heavier feel may prefer the EverFree Grayish, assuming the bottom out force is suitable for their needs.
Travel distance
The SP-Star Ayara linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Ayara switch offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a deeper key press feel. In comparison, the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch has a slightly shorter travel distance, which can result in a quicker response time, making it a popular choice among gamers. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key press 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 Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish has an MSRP of $2.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the EverFree (EF) Grayish for $2.69.
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 SP-Star Ayara linear switch offers a neutral sound profile with a clacky tone, making it suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch also provides a neutral sound profile, ensuring a pleasant typing experience without any extremes in pitch. Ultimately, the choice between these switches in terms of sound will come down to personal preference and the overall setup of your keyboard.
When it comes to feel, the Ayara switch is known for its polished finish, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction. In contrast, the EverFree (EF) Grayish switch is described as stepped and snappy, providing a tactile response with a two-stage feel for a more dynamic typing experience. Both switches offer unique tactile sensations, and the decision between them will depend on whether you prefer a polished and smooth feel or a more responsive and lively typing experience.
Taking everything into consideration, both the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish tactile switch have their own strengths in terms of sound and feel. While the Ayara switch offers a clacky sound profile and a polished feel, the EverFree Grayish switch provides a neutral sound and a stepped, snappy sensation when typing. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. If audio recordings of both switches were available, a comparison could provide a more thorough evaluation of their differences, but based on the information provided, you can expect to achieve similar results in terms of overall performance.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch with a medium bottom out force and a hearty typing experience, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch would be a great choice for you. The Ayara offers a soft bottom-out feel and a clacky sound profile, making it ideal for those who enjoy a more tactile typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a neutral sound signature and a medium weight, the Gateron EverFree (EF) Grayish switch might be more suited to your preferences. The EF Grayish switches are known for their custom molds, approachable price point, and overall comfortable typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to your personal preferences for typing feel and sound profile.
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