SP-Star Ayara vs. Gateron Ink Box Black
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the Gateron Ink Box Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two options that stand out are the SP-Star Ayara and the Gateron Ink Box Black. The Ayara switch is a linear switch with a medium heftiness, making it ideal for those who prefer a hearty typing experience. Typing on these switches offers a soft bottom-out feel and a perfectly clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black is another linear switch known for its incredibly smooth and creamy feel. Its sound signature resembles that of a spray paint can being shaken. Both switches have a high-pitched and polished sound, but the Ayara is categorized as "Neutral", while the Ink Box Black is described as "Clacky" and "Silky". However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your personal preferences.
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
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Two-stage
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the Gateron Ink Box Black differ in their composition. The Ayara utilizes a nylon material for both its top and bottom housings, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black features Gateron's proprietary INK blend for both its top and bottom housings. This unique blend creates a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is often described as clacky. Thus, there is a noticeable contrast in the sound produced by these two switches.
While the nylon top housing of the Ayara and the INK blend top housing of the Ink Box Black have distinct sound profiles, they also share some similarities. Both materials offer a satisfying typing experience, although with different characteristics. The nylon top housing of the Ayara elicits a deeper and fuller sound, while the INK blend top housing of the Ink Box Black produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound. Despite these differences, both switches provide an enjoyable typing experience and deliver a unique sound that satisfies users with their individual preferences.
In terms of the bottom housing, the nylon material used in the Ayara and the INK blend material used in the Ink Box Black also contribute to the overall sound produced by each switch. The nylon bottom housing of the Ayara enhances the bottom-out sound and feel, contributing to the deeper and fuller sound profile of the switch. On the other hand, the INK blend bottom housing of the Ink Box Black adds to its clacky sound profile, providing a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound. Therefore, there is a distinction in the impact that the bottom housing materials have on the overall sound and feel of these two switches.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Ayara's actuation force is currently unavailable, making it difficult to directly compare it to the Ink Box Black's actuation force of 60 grams. However, both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the Ayara at 62 grams and the Ink Box Black at 70 grams, giving them a similar typing experience in terms of keypress depth.
Considering weight, the Ayara may be lighter than the Ink Box Black due to its unknown actuation force. This lighter feel can be advantageous for prolonged typing tasks or extended gaming sessions, as it allows for reduced finger fatigue. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black offers a slightly heavier actuation force, providing users with a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience. This may be preferred by individuals who desire a more tactile feedback and a sense of key responsiveness. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would largely depend on personal typing preferences, whether one prioritizes a lighter or heavier actuation force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch, we can see that there is a slight difference between the two. The Ayara has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the Ink Box Black has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. 4.0 mm is a more traditional travel distance, while 3.6 mm is slightly shallower. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for faster response times. If you are someone who values quick and precise inputs, the Ink Box Black with its shorter travel distance would be an ideal choice. However, for those who prefer a more substantial keystroke feel, the Ayara with its slightly longer travel distance may be more preferable. Ultimately, it depends on personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
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 Ink Box Black has an MSRP of $8.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Box Black for $7.65.
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 moderate in volume. It produces a soft and clacky sound when typing, which is perfect for those who prefer a more subdued noise level. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch provides a clacky sound that is high-pitched in nature. It produces a sharp and crisp sound, similar to that of a spray paint can being shaken. Both switches have a high-pitched characteristic, but the Ayara has a more neutral sound overall. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch offers a polished typing experience. This means that it has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Ayara switch provides a soft bottom-out feel when typing, offering a more satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a hearty typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch is described as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience. These switches minimize resistance when pressing and releasing keys, providing an enhanced smoothness of the typing feel. Both switches offer a polished feel, ensuring a sleek and enjoyable typing experience.
Overall, the SP-Star Ayara and Gateron Ink Box Black linear switches cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. The Ayara switch provides a neutral sound profile with a clacky sound and a soft bottom-out feel, perfect for those who prefer a hearty typing experience. On the other hand, the Ink Box Black switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound, along with a silky smooth feel. If you prefer a more neutral sound and a polished typing experience, the Ayara switch is a great choice. However, if you prefer a sharper sound profile and an exceptionally smooth feel, the Ink Box Black switch would be a suitable option.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a hearty typing experience and a soft bottom-out feel with a clacky sound profile, we recommend the SP-Star Ayara linear switch. These Ayara switches have a medium bottom out force of 62 grams, making them suitable for most intents and purposes. Additionally, they offer a polished feel, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prioritize smoothness and a creamy typing experience with a spray paint can-like sound signature, the Gateron Ink Box Black linear switch is the better choice for you. With a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams, these switches provide a refined typing feel and enhance overall smoothness. They also have a polished finish, further reducing friction and enhancing the sleek typing experience.
Ultimately, the decision between the SP-Star Ayara and Gateron Ink Box Black linear switches depends on your personal preferences. Consider whether you value a clacky sound profile or a creamy sound signature, and whether a medium or medium-heavy bottom out force suits your typing style.
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