SP-Star Ayara vs. Bsun Hutt
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the Bsun Hutt switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Bsun Hutt tactile switch offer unique typing experiences worth considering. The Ayara switch is praised for its medium heftness, providing a hearty typing feel with a soft bottom-out sensation and a satisfyingly clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Hutt switch stands out for its medium-heavy spring, prominent tactile bump, and balanced sound profile, resulting in a distinctive and enjoyable typing experience. Whether you prefer a neutral, high-pitched, and polished feel like the Ayara or a snappy, invigorating, sharp, accented, and resonant experience like the Hutt, both switches have their own strengths. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
49g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
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 single-staged spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the Bsun Hutt differ significantly in terms of sound profiles. While the Ayara utilizes a nylon top and bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon absorbing more sound, the Hutt features a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. This contrast in sound quality suggests that typing on the Ayara may produce a mellower typing experience compared to the more defined sounds that would be heard when using the Hutt.
Despite the differences in their top housing materials, both the Ayara and the Hutt share the use of nylon for their bottom housing. This means that regardless of the top housing material, typing on switches from both keyboards will elicit a similar deeper and fuller sound profile due to the absorbing properties of nylon. This consistency in bottom housing material suggests that the typing experience on both the Ayara and the Hutt may feel more similar in terms of sound and tactile feedback compared to if they had different bottom housing materials.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in mechanical keyboards like the SP-Star Ayara and the Bsun Hutt plays a crucial role in shaping the overall typing experience. While the Ayara's nylon housing creates a more muffled and rounded sound, the Hutt's polycarbonate housing produces a sharper and clearer sound. The use of different materials for the top and bottom housings further influences the sound profile and tactile feedback of each keyboard, making them distinct in their typing experiences despite sharing similarities in some aspects of their housing materials.
Weight
The SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Bsun Hutt tactile switch have varying actuation and bottom out forces that cater to different preferences. The Ayara switch has an actuation force of None grams, making it remarkably light in comparison to the Hutt switch, which requires 40 grams to actuate. In terms of bottom out force, the Ayara requires 62 grams, while the Hutt requires 49 grams, making the Hutt switch lighter overall. Many users prefer a lighter actuation force for longer typing sessions or gaming, as it reduces fatigue. In contrast, a heavier actuation force provides a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer unique benefits based on individual preferences, with the Ayara providing a medium bottom out force and the Hutt offering a lighter touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch is 4 mm, while the Bsun Hutt tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Hutt has a shorter travel distance compared to the Ayara. 4.0mm is a more traditional distance, providing a balance between responsiveness and comfort, while 3.5 mm may feel quicker for some users. Gamers seeking a faster response time may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Hutt, while those looking for a more pronounced keypress may lean towards the Ayara. Both switches offer unique advantages, but ultimately, the choice between them will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Bsun Hutt has an MSRP of $6.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Hutt for $5.39.
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 and moderate sound profile, suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Bsun Hutt tactile switch provides a resonant and higher-pitched sound profile, creating a clean and sharp auditory experience. It is important to note that the overall sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Ayara switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Conversely, the Hutt switch is characterized as snappy, invigorating, sharp, and accented, providing a super responsive, immersive, and distinct tactile feedback with each key press. Both switches offer unique tactile experiences for users seeking different typing sensations.
Overall, while the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Bsun Hutt tactile switch offer different sound profiles and tactile feels, they both provide distinctive typing experiences that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer a hearty typing experience with a clacky sound or a balanced sound with a prominent tactile bump, both switches offer quality performance to enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the Ayara and Hutt switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the SP-Star Ayara linear switch or the Bsun Hutt tactile switch, your decision should be based on your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a clacky sound profile, along with a softer bottom-out feel, the Ayara switches would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a lighter bottom out force, a prominent tactile bump, and a balanced sound profile, then the Hutt switches would be more suitable for your typing style. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer a polished, smooth typing experience with the Ayara switches or a snappy and invigorating typing sensation with the Hutt switches. Consider your preferences for actuation force, sound profile, and tactile feel when choosing between these two switches to ensure a satisfying typing experience.
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