SP-Star Ayara vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two options that often come to mind are the SP-Star Ayara and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver. These switches have their own unique qualities that make them appealing to different types of users. The Ayara, with its medium heftiness, provides a hearty typing experience, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a satisfying feel while typing. It offers a soft bottom-out feel and a perfectly clacky sound profile, adding to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Silver from Gateron's budget-friendly lineup is specifically designed for gamers. With a shorter travel distance of 3.4mm, compared to the standard 4mm, these switches offer lightning-fast responsiveness, giving gamers a competitive advantage. The switch also features vibrant RGB lighting and a medium-high pitch, enhancing the visual and auditory elements of gaming. 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
1.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Two-stage
Spring
22mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Ayara utilizes a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Silver features a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that produces a more clear and resonant sound. While the Ayara's nylon bottom housing is similar to the G Pro 3.0 Silver's nylon bottom housing in terms of sound, the difference in their top housing materials brings contrasting qualities to the switches.
The Ayara's nylon bottom housing and the G Pro 3.0 Silver's nylon bottom housing are essentially the same, as both use this classic switch housing material. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon's softer plastic nature, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, if you choose either the Ayara or the G Pro 3.0 Silver, you can expect a similar sound experience with the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
However, the main difference lies in the top housing materials of the two switches. The Ayara's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a duller and rounder sound when you release a key. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Silver's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for a more clear and resonant key release. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, adding a visual aesthetic to the G Pro 3.0 Silver. Therefore, if you desire a switch with a sharper and more resonant sound upon releasing a key, along with the capability for RGB lighting, the G Pro 3.0 Silver would be the better choice.
In summary, while the bottom housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver are the same, their top housing materials result in different sound profiles. The Ayara's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound upon key release, whereas the G Pro 3.0 Silver's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound. Additionally, the polycarbonate top housing allows for the inclusion of RGB lighting, catering to users looking for both a visually appealing and sonically distinct switch. Although both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, the Ayara and the G Pro 3.0 Silver offer contrasting sound experiences when it comes to key release due to their differing top housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch, we can see some notable differences. The Ayara's actuation force is of unknown grams, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver has an actuation force of 45 grams. This means that the Ayara may require a slightly heavier force to trigger a keystroke compared to the G Pro 3.0 Silver. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Ayara has a slightly heavier force of 62 grams, whereas the G Pro 3.0 Silver has a lighter force of 50 grams.
Considering weight, some may prefer a lighter actuation force, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue, making it ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, those seeking a more substantial typing experience may prefer a heavier actuation force for a stronger push feel. In this case, the G Pro 3.0 Silver would be the lighter option in terms of actuation force, and the Ayara would offer a heavier force for a more substantial typing experience.
It is worth mentioning that while the specific actuation force of the Ayara is unknown, it can be inferred that it is likely heavier than the G Pro 3.0 Silver considering the Ayara's heavier bottom out force of 62 grams. However, since the G Pro 3.0 Silver has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, it may offer a similar typing experience to the Ayara, as both switches have a relatively light actuation force. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on individual preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch, it becomes evident that both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either switch, users will experience a consistent 4 mm travel distance. Consequently, whether using the Ayara or the G Pro 3.0 Silver, the feeling of key presses will be similar, as both switches offer the same level of travel distance. Thus, in terms of travel distance, these switches provide equal results for keyboard users.
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 Silver has an MSRP of $3.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Silver for $3.27.
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 Ayara switch produces a perfectly clacky sound profile, which is neutral in pitch. This means that it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, suitable for most purposes. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch has a low-pitched, bassy sound with a thocky quality. This switch offers a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses. If you prefer a sharp and crisp sound, the Ayara switch is a great choice, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch provides a more bass-heavy and mellow tone.
In terms of feel, the Ayara switch is polished, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. It offers reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch is described as buttery and creamy, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. This switch provides a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. If you prefer a switch with a sleek typing experience, the Ayara switch would be a good fit, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch offers a silky sensation, as if gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys.
Overall, both switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ayara switch is best for those who prefer a hearty typing experience, with a soft bottom-out feel and a clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch excels in gaming, offering lightning-fast responsiveness and an exhilarating auditory element to enhance your gaming sessions. Both switches have their strengths and can provide a satisfying typing or gaming experience, depending on your preferences. Keep in mind that the sound and feel of the switch can also be influenced by other factors, such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a hearty typing experience and a medium actuation force, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch would be a great choice for you. These switches provide a soft bottom-out feel and a clacky sound profile, perfect for those who enjoy a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, if you're looking for an exceptional gaming experience with lightning-fast responsiveness and vibrant RGB lighting, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch is the way to go. With a lighter bottom out force and a shorter travel distance, these switches offer unmatched value for gamers. In terms of sound, the Ayara has a neutral or high-pitched profile, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver is characterized by a bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound. When it comes to feel, the Ayara provides a polished switch experience, reducing friction and ensuring smooth key travel. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Silver offers a buttery and creamy typing sensation, allowing for a seamless and effortless keystroke experience. Overall, both switches have their own unique strengths and are ideal for different preferences and use cases.
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