SP-Star Ayara vs. TTC Gold Pink
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the TTC Gold Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the SP-Star Ayara and the TTC Gold Pink, both of which fall under the category of linear switches. The Ayara switch is best known for its medium heftness, making it ideal for those who prefer a sturdy typing experience. With a soft bottom-out feel and a perfectly clacky sound profile, typing on the Ayara switches is a delight. On the other hand, the Gold Pink switches offer a different experience, with a light 37g actuation force that makes them one of the lightest switches available. Designed for those who value speed and efficiency, the Gold Pink switches are perfect for rapid typing or gaming. They deliver a satisfying level of feedback with their clacky sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the most suitable switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Two-stage
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the TTC Gold Pink differ significantly in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Ayara features a nylon top housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. In contrast, the Gold Pink utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound profile. Additionally, the polycarbonate top housing is particularly beneficial for users interested in RGB lighting due to its translucency.
On the other hand, both the Ayara and the Gold Pink employ a nylon bottom housing. This material choice also elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softness and sound-absorbing properties. Consequently, both switches will have a similar sound profile when it comes to bottoming-out sounds and feels. However, it is important to note that if a switch utilizes different materials for the top and bottom housings, the qualities of each housing material will be divided between pressing down on the switch and releasing a key. The bottom housing will primarily affect the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will have a more significant impact on the sound produced when letting go of a key.
In summary, the Ayara and the Gold Pink demonstrate distinct sound profiles based on their housing materials. The Ayara's nylon top housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, while the Gold Pink's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound. Both switches utilize a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a similar sound when bottoming-out. However, it is important to consider that the top housing's material will have a more significant influence on the sound produced when releasing a key.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the TTC Gold Pink linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Ayara switch has an actuation force of unavailable grams, making it difficult to determine how it compares to the Gold Pink switch, which has an actuation force of 37 grams. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Ayara switch requires 62 grams, which is considered medium, while the Gold Pink switch only requires 45 grams, which is lighter.
Considering weight, some individuals prefer a lighter switch as it allows for longer periods of typing without causing fatigue. This would be suitable for those using the keyboard for work purposes or engaging in long gaming sessions. On the other hand, some people prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. These individuals would opt for switches with heavier forces.
In terms of actuation force, it is difficult to compare the two switches as the Ayara's force is unavailable. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Ayara switch is heavier with 62 grams, compared to the Gold Pink switch which only requires 45 grams to bottom out. This suggests that the Ayara switch would offer a more substantial typing experience in terms of resistance and force required.
In conclusion, while the actuation force of the SP-Star Ayara switch remains unknown, its bottom out force is heavier than that of the TTC Gold Pink switch. This means that the Ayara switch would provide a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience. However, for those who prefer a lighter switch to type for extended periods without fatigue, the Gold Pink switch with its lighter actuation and bottom out forces would be a more suitable option.
Travel distance
Both the SP-Star Ayara and the TTC Gold Pink linear switches have a travel distance of 4 mm. Therefore, pressing down on a key with either of these switches will result in a similar tactile experience as both switches travel the same distance from the top to the bottom. The travel distance of both switches is equal, ensuring a consistent feel while typing or gaming.
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 Gold Pink has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Pink for $4.28.
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 has a perfect clacky sound profile that gives a satisfying auditory feedback while typing. It falls under the category of a neutral sound switch, which means it has a moderate sound profile suitable for various purposes. On the other hand, the sound description for the Gold Pink switch is unknown. However, it's important to note that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Ayara switch offers a soft bottom-out feel and a polished switch experience. This means that it provides a smooth and refined typing experience, resulting in a sleek and frictionless keystroke. On the other hand, the Gold Pink switch is described as buttery, mild, feathery, subtle, and polished. These descriptions indicate that the Gold Pink switch offers a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, with a gentle typing feel and little exertion required to press the keys. It also provides a light actuation force, reducing finger fatigue and making it comfortable for extended typing sessions.
Considering the available information, the Ayara switch is best suited for those who prefer a hearty and clacky typing experience with a medium heftiness. It offers a soft bottom-out feel and a polished switch experience, resulting in a sleek and refined typing sensation. On the other hand, the Gold Pink switch is designed for those who value a fast and effortless typing experience. It has a light actuation force, giving it a buttery, mild, feathery, and subtle typing feel. Unfortunately, there is no information available about the sound profile of the Gold Pink switch.
If you want a similar typing experience to the Ayara switch, you can expect a moderately clacky sound profile and a smooth and refined typing sensation. However, if you're specifically looking for a light and lively typing experience like the Gold Pink switch, it's difficult to provide a direct comparison as we don't have information about its sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for weight, typing experience, and the desired sound profile.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a hearty typing experience with a medium bottom out force, we highly recommend the SP-Star Ayara linear switches. These switches offer a soft bottom-out feel and a clacky sound profile that many users find satisfying. Additionally, the Ayara switches have a polished feel, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction. On the other hand, if you value a fast and effortless typing experience with a light bottom out force, the TTC Gold Pink linear switches would be a great choice. These switches have a 37g actuation force, making them one of the lightest switches available. They deliver a light and lively typing experience along with a clacky sound. Moreover, the Gold Pink switches have multiple descriptors such as buttery, mild, feathery, subtle, and polished, which indicate the smoothness and comfort they offer during extended typing sessions. Ultimately, the decision between the Ayara and Gold Pink switches depends on your personal preferences and typing style.
Mentioned in this article
