SP-Star Ayara vs. PH Studio Jacaranda
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the PH Studio Jacaranda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the SP-Star Ayara and the PH Studio Jacaranda mechanical keyboard switches, both being linear switches, it is evident that they offer distinct typing experiences. The Ayara switch is best known for its medium heftiness, providing a hearty typing experience with a soft bottom-out feel and a clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Jacaranda switch, with its gentle bottom-out of 43.5g and extended 22mm spring, offers a fatigue-free typing experience with a crisp and audible feedback. While the Ayara is categorized as 'Neutral', 'High-pitched', and 'Polished', the Jacaranda is labeled as 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', 'Silky', and 'Resonant'. Those looking for a satisfyingly clacky typing experience may prefer the Ayara, while individuals seeking a smooth and bouncy typing sensation may opt for the Jacaranda. 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
39g
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
3.50 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
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the PH Studio Jacaranda differ significantly in terms of sound profiles. The Ayara uses nylon for both its top and bottom housings, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound due to the softness of the material that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Jacaranda utilizes polycarbonate for its top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This difference in housing materials leads to distinct typing experiences for users, with the Ayara offering a duller and rounder sound compared to the more clear and resonant sound of the Jacaranda.
While the Ayara features nylon for both its top and bottom housings, the Jacaranda uses nylon for its bottom housing. This similarity in bottom housing material results in a consistent typing experience in terms of sound profile for both switches. However, the difference in top housing material between the two switches, with the Ayara utilizing nylon and the Jacaranda using polycarbonate, leads to variations in the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Overall, the choice of housing materials plays a crucial role in shaping the typing experience and sound profile of mechanical switches, highlighting the importance of material selection in switch design.
The split between the qualities of the bottom and top housing materials in a switch impacts the overall typing experience. When pressing down on a switch, the bottom housing material influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material affects the sound when releasing a key. In the case of the Ayara and Jacaranda, the differences in housing materials contribute to distinct sound profiles during typing, with the Ayara offering a deeper and fuller sound due to its nylon housing and the Jacaranda providing a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate top housing. These nuances in housing material choice showcase how variations in material composition can have a significant impact on the overall user experience with mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Ayara linear switch to the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, it is evident that the Ayara has a lighter actuation force of None grams, whereas the Jacaranda requires 39 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Ayara is heavier at 62 grams compared to the Jacaranda at 45 grams. The Ayara provides a more substantial typing experience due to its higher bottom out force, while the Jacaranda offers a lighter touch for more extended typing or gaming sessions. Overall, those who prefer a lighter actuation force may lean towards the Jacaranda, while the Ayara is better suited for individuals who prefer a heavier touch for typing.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch is 4 mm, while the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Ayara the longer option when comparing the two switches. A shorter travel distance, such as that of the Jacaranda, is often favored by gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, a longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper feel when typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and what feels most comfortable to 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 PH Studio Jacaranda has an MSRP of $3.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jacaranda for $3.30.
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 is known for its moderate and neutral sound profile that is suitable for most users, whether they are beginners or advanced typists. On the other hand, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch produces a clacky and sharp sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive. The Jacaranda also offers a resonant sound profile that provides an immersive auditory experience. Both switches have a high-pitched sound, making them ideal for those who prefer a sharp and crisp sound when typing. However, the Ayara leans towards a softer bottom-out feel, while the Jacaranda has an extended spring that adds a bouncy sensation to each keystroke, enhancing the overall typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Ayara switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience due to either the materials used or factory lubing. This results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, providing a sleek typing sensation. On the other hand, the PH Studio Jacaranda switch is described as silky, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience that minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Both switches prioritize comfort and ease of typing, with the Ayara focusing on a polished finish for reduced friction and the Jacaranda emphasizing a silky feel for smooth key presses.
In conclusion, while the SP-Star Ayara and PH Studio Jacaranda linear switches have different sound profiles and feel characteristics, they both aim to provide a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience for users. The Ayara offers a softer bottom-out feel and a neutral sound profile, catering to those who prefer a hearty typing experience. Meanwhile, the Jacaranda stands out with its clacky sound profile, extended spring for bouncy keystrokes, and silky smooth feel for fatigue-free typing. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Both switches offer quality options that will deliver satisfying results for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a clacky sound profile with a hearty typing experience, the Ayara switch is a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a bouncy typing sensation, and a crisp, clacky sound profile with a fatigue-free typing experience, the Jacaranda switch would be the ideal option for you. Consider your typing style, sound preference, and desired typing feel when making your decision between these two exceptional mechanical keyboard switches.
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