SP-Star Ayara vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
SP-Star Ayara and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red are two mechanical keyboard switches that both offer a linear typing experience. The Ayara switch is best known for its medium heftiness, making it ideal for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. With a soft bottom-out feel and a satisfyingly clacky sound profile, the Ayara switch delivers a robust and hearty typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red is designed to provide a smooth typing experience at a budget-friendly price point. With a medium-light actuation force, these switches strike a balance between responsiveness and ease of use. Additionally, the G Pro 3.0 Red features a frosted light diffuser, allowing for brighter and more vibrant RGB lighting effects. Its medium-high pitch also adds to the satisfying auditory experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
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
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red significantly differ in their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Ayara utilizes a nylon top housing, which is known for its softer plastic nature. This allows the nylon to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile when typing on the switches. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Red features a polycarbonate top housing, which is a relatively stiffer plastic. As a result, the polycarbonate creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when the switches are pressed. Moreover, the polycarbonate housing is translucent, making it suitable for those who plan to use RGB lighting.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Ayara and the G Pro 3.0 Red employ nylon material. This choice of material is consistent with the aim of creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer nature of nylon allows for better sound absorption compared to harder plastics, which contributes to a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switches. Therefore, while there may be differences in the top housing materials, the nylon bottom housing ensures that both switches deliver a similar deep and full sound experience.
It is important to note that the qualities of the housing materials are divided between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on the switches, the bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This means that the nylon bottom housing of both the Ayara and the G Pro 3.0 Red contributes to the overall sound and feel of the switches, while the differences in their top housing materials lead to distinct sound profiles during key release.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch, it is evident that they differ in terms of weight. The Ayara switch has an actuation force of unavailable grams, making it difficult to determine how it compares to the G Pro 3.0 Red's actuation force of 45 grams, which is considered light. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Ayara switch requires 62 grams of force, which is medium, while the G Pro 3.0 Red only requires 50 grams, making it lighter.
Considering weight can be important for various reasons. Some users prefer lighter switches as it allows them to type for longer durations without experiencing fatigue, especially if they use a keyboard extensively for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, there are individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience and enjoy a stronger push feel. For these users, switches with heavier forces would be the ideal choice.
Although the exact actuation force of the Ayara switch is unknown, it can be assumed that with a bottom out force of 62 grams, it might offer a comparable experience to the G Pro 3.0 Red, which has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. Both switches offer a linear typing experience, but the Ayara switch is likely to provide a slightly heavier and more substantial typing feel due to its higher bottom out force. Meanwhile, the G Pro 3.0 Red, with its lighter actuation and bottom out forces, is better suited for users who prefer a lighter and more effortless keystroke.
Travel distance
Both the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom, both switches provide a similar experience. Whether you choose the Ayara or the G Pro 3.0 Red, you can expect to feel a consistent and comfortable 4 mm of travel distance when pressing down on a key.
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 Red 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 Red 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, both the SP-Star Ayara and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switches are described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that they produce a moderate sound that is suitable for most users, whether they are beginners or advanced typists, and whether they are using the switches at home or at work. However, the Ayara switch also has a high-pitched sound profile, which produces a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. So, if you prefer a switch with a higher-pitched sound, the Ayara would be a better choice. It's important to note that the sound of the switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps that are used.
In terms of feel, the Ayara switch is described as having a polished finish, which results in a smooth and refined typing experience. This is due to either the materials used in the switch or the factory lubrication. With the Ayara switch, you can expect reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red is described as having a creamy feel, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience. This is likely due to the factory lubrication and specific materials used in the switch. When typing on the G Pro 3.0 Red, you can expect a silky sensation, as if your fingers effortlessly glide across the keys with ease. The G Pro 3.0 Red also offers a mild typing experience, which means it has a more gentle feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Overall, both switches provide a polished and smooth typing experience, but the Ayara has a smoother and refined feel, while the G Pro 3.0 Red offers a creamy and silky sensation.
In conclusion, both the SP-Star Ayara and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switches offer their own unique qualities. When it comes to sound, the Ayara has a clacky sound profile with the option for a higher-pitched sound, while the G Pro 3.0 Red has a neutral sound profile. In terms of feel, the Ayara provides a polished and smooth typing experience, while the G Pro 3.0 Red offers a creamy and silky sensation. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, either switch could be a suitable choice. It's important to consider other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps in order to achieve the desired sound and feel.
Conclusion
In summary, if you prefer a typing experience with medium heftiness and a soft bottom-out feel, along with a perfectly clacky sound profile, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch is the way to go. These switches are recommended for those who enjoy a hearty typing experience. On the other hand, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option that delivers a smooth typing experience, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch is a great choice. With a medium-light actuation force, it strikes a balance between responsiveness and ease of use. Additionally, the G Pro Red features a frosted light diffuser, allowing for brighter and more vibrant RGB lighting effects, and a medium-high pitch for a satisfying auditory experience. Ultimately, the Ayara switch provides a neutral, high-pitched sound while the G Pro 3.0 Red switch has a neutral sound profile. In terms of feel, the Ayara offers a polished switch experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel, while the G Pro 3.0 Red provides a creamy, mild, polished, and silky typing sensation. Consider your preferences for typing experience, sound, and feel when deciding between these two switches.
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