SP-Star Ayara vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the SP-Star Ayara and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black both offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The Ayara is praised for its medium heftiness, making it ideal for those seeking a hearty typing experience. With a soft bottom-out feel and a perfectly clacky sound profile, the Ayara is categorized as ['Neutral', 'High-pitched', 'Polished']. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Black stands out for being the heaviest linear switch in the G Pro series, appealing to individuals who prefer a more substantial typing sensation. It features a 60g actuation force and a 70g bottom-out force, providing a balanced medium-heavy feel, along with a medium-high pitch auditory experience. Additionally, the frosted light diffuser enhances RGB lighting effects. While both switches offer unique benefits, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. However, let's delve deeper into the specifics to help you make an informed decision on the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
60g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Two-stage
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black, it is evident that they both offer unique sound profiles attributable to their respective materials. The Ayara's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder and duller resonance. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Black's proprietary INK blend top housing exudes a pointed high-pitched sound that is described as clacky, delivering a satisfyingly thin and sharp sound experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Ayara's nylon material continues to offer a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its soft plastic composition. The G Pro 3.0 Black, on the other hand, features a POM bottom housing that produces a uniquely pleasing sound that leans towards the deeper side and is relatively more muted compared to the Ayara's bottom housing. This contrast highlights the impact that different housing materials can have on the overall sound and feel of a switch.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the Ayara and the G Pro 3.0 Black differ, the overall typing experience and sound produced by each switch will be a result of the combined qualities of both the top and bottom housing materials. The bottom housing material has a more pronounced effect on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed, while the top housing material plays a significant role in the sound produced when the key is released. Understanding these nuances can help users choose a switch that aligns with their preferences for sound and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch, we can see some differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Ayara linear switch has an actuation force of None grams, meaning it requires a very light touch to trigger a keystroke, while the G Pro 3.0 Black has an actuation force of 60 grams, slightly heavier but still considered relatively light. In terms of bottom out force, the Ayara requires 62 grams to fully press a key, which is a medium force, whereas the G Pro 3.0 Black requires 70 grams, making it slightly heavier at a medium-heavy level. In summary, the Ayara is lighter in terms of actuation force, while the G Pro 3.0 Black is heavier. Depending on individual preferences, one may prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions, while others may prefer a heavier push for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Travel distance
Both the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. In terms of travel distance, there is no difference between the two switches, so you can expect similar results when using either of them. Both switches offer a smooth linear typing experience with a consistent travel distance, making them suitable choices for those looking for a consistent typing feel.
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 G Pro 3.0 Black has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Black for $2.77.
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 that is suitable for a variety of users and environments. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch is known for its clacky sound, providing a sharp and percussive auditory experience. Depending on your preference for sound, the Ayara offers a more moderate option while the G Pro 3.0 Black delivers a more distinctive and lively typing sound.
In terms of feel, the SP-Star Ayara switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and sleek key travel. Meanwhile, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switch is known for its creamy and silky feel, offering a smooth and buttery sensation with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Both switches offer a pleasant typing experience, with the Ayara focusing on polish and refinement, and the G Pro 3.0 Black emphasizing smoothness and ease of keystrokes.
Overall, the SP-Star Ayara and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switches each have their unique strengths in sound and feel. While the Ayara provides a neutral sound with a polished typing feel, the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a clacky sound and a creamy typing sensation. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, you can achieve a satisfying typing experience with either switch, ensuring a wholesome mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a hearty typing experience with a soft bottom-out feel and clacky sound profile, the Ayara with its medium 62g bottom out force may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantive typing experience with a balanced medium-heavy feel and a medium-high pitch sound profile, the G Pro 3.0 Black with its 70g bottom out force and frosted light diffuser for vibrant RGB lighting effects may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for.
Mentioned in this article
