SP-Star Ayara vs. TTC Flame Red
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the TTC Flame Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a plethora of options available, each with their own unique characteristics and features. Two popular choices in the linear switch category are the SP-Star Ayara and the TTC Flame Red. The Ayara switch is best known for its medium heftness, making it ideal for those seeking a robust and satisfying typing experience. With a soft bottom-out feel and a perfectly clacky sound profile, the Ayara provides a delightful tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Flame Red stands out with its stunning visual appeal, thanks to its dazzling light diffuser. Designed for backlit and RGB keyboards, these switches offer a weighty smoothness and a distinct clacky sound profile, making them a favorite among gamers and enthusiasts. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your specific needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
54g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Two-stage
Spring
24.5mm long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the TTC Flame Red switches have notable similarities and differences. Both switches utilize nylon as their top and bottom housing material, resulting in a similar typing experience. Nylon is renowned for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile when pressed, regardless of whether it is used in the top or bottom housing. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, users can expect a comparable typing experience in terms of sound and feel when using either the Ayara or Flame Red switches.
However, it is worth mentioning that if the top and bottom housings differ in a particular switch, the qualities associated with each housing material will be divided between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing, which plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, will contribute more to the overall typing experience when the key is pressed down. Conversely, the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound produced when a key is released. These distinctions may result in subtle variations in the sound and feel between the Ayara and Flame Red switches, depending on the specific design and composition of their housings.
Overall, whether you opt for the SP-Star Ayara or TTC Flame Red switches, you can anticipate a comparable typing experience due to their shared use of nylon as the housing material. Both switches harness the properties of nylon to provide a deeper and fuller sound profile, characterized by a dull and round tone. While subtle differences may arise from variations in their top and bottom housing materials, these discrepancies are unlikely to significantly impact the overall typing experience. Users can select either switch based on personal preference or other factors without compromising the desired qualitative aspects.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the TTC Flame Red linear switch, there are some key differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Ayara has an actuation force that is unavailable in grams, making it difficult to determine its specific weight. On the other hand, the Flame Red has an actuation force of 45 grams, which is lighter than the Ayara.
In terms of bottom out force, the Ayara requires 62 grams of force, which falls into the medium range. The Flame Red requires slightly less force at 54 grams, making it medium-light.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Flame Red would be a suitable choice due to its lighter actuation force. This allows for longer periods of typing without excessive strain. However, for those seeking a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Ayara would be a better option with its higher bottom out force. This can provide a satisfying tactile feedback while typing.
In general, the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in the overall typing experience. The difference in force between the Ayara and Flame Red may result in distinct typing experiences. It is important to consider personal preferences and needs when choosing between the two switches.
Travel distance
Both the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the TTC Flame Red linear switch have a travel distance of 4mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel. Whether you opt for the Ayara or the Flame Red, you can expect a consistent and reliable typing experience with a 4mm travel distance.
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 TTC Flame Red has an MSRP of $7.29 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flame Red for $4.38.
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 and TTC Flame Red switches have similar profiles. Both switches are described as having a neutral sound profile, which means they produce a moderate and balanced sound when pressed. However, the Ayara is also described as having a high-pitched sound, which produces a sharper and crisper tone compared to the more rich and bassy sound of the Flame Red switch. Overall, if you prefer a more neutral sound with a touch of high pitch, the Ayara would be a suitable choice, while the Flame Red offers a more standard neutral sound.
In terms of feel, the Ayara switch is described as polished, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. This indicates that the switch has a sleek finish, potentially achieved through material selection or factory lubing. With the Ayara, you can expect reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing feel. On the other hand, the Flame Red switch is described as having a mild feel. This suggests that it offers a gentler typing experience compared to switches with more distinct characteristics. The mild feel of the Flame Red switch places it in a safe middle-ground zone, making it approachable for most users. Additionally, the Flame Red switch also shares the polished characteristic, providing reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the SP-Star Ayara and TTC Flame Red switches share some similarities in sound and feel. Both switches have a neutral sound profile that is suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, or if you use the switches at home or work. Additionally, both switches have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Therefore, if you are looking for similar results in terms of sound and feel, you can expect a comparable experience from both the SP-Star Ayara and TTC Flame Red switches. However, keep in mind that other factors, such as the choice of board and keycaps, can also influence the sound and feel of the switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a hearty typing experience with a softer bottom-out feel and a clacky sound, we recommend the SP-Star Ayara switches. These switches have a medium bottom out force of 62 grams, making them suitable for most intents and purposes. Additionally, if you enjoy a polished switch with reduced friction and smooth key travel, the Ayara switches provide a sleek typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prioritize visuals and have a backlit, RGB keyboard, the TTC Flame Red switches are the best choice. These switches feature a dazzling light diffuser, enhancing the overall visual appeal of your keyboard. They offer a weighty smoothness when typing and produce a clacky sound profile. With a medium-light bottom out force of 54 grams, the Flame Red switches provide a comfortable typing experience suitable for beginners and advanced users alike.
In terms of sound, both switches have a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, making them versatile for various settings. However, if you prefer a sharper and crisper sound, the Ayara switches offer a higher-pitched option.
Ultimately, the choice between the SP-Star Ayara and TTC Flame Red switches depends on your preferences and priorities. Consider your desired typing experience, sound profile, and the visual aesthetics of your keyboard. By understanding these characteristics, you can make an informed decision that will enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.
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