SP-Star Ayara vs. Gateron Jupiter Brown
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the Gateron Jupiter Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch offer unique typing experiences worth considering. The Ayara switch stands out for its medium heftiness, making it ideal for those who enjoy a robust typing experience. With a soft bottom-out feel and a satisfying clacky sound profile, the Ayara switch is categorized as 'Neutral', 'High-pitched', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Jupiter Brown switch combines tradition with innovation, featuring a single-stage spring for a classic keystroke feel at a medium-heavy weight. Categorized as 'Mild', 'Polished', and 'Stepped', the Jupiter Brown switch offers high-precision molds and enhanced softer backlight effects for both reliable performance and aesthetic appeal. Ultimately, the choice between the Ayara and Jupiter Brown switches comes down to personal preference. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
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
Spring steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the Gateron Jupiter Brown differ in their top housing material. The Ayara features a nylon top housing, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic nature that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Jupiter Brown utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While the Ayara's nylon top housing creates a duller and rounder sound, the Jupiter Brown's polycarbonate top housing offers a more clear and resonant sound profile, especially beneficial for RGB lighting due to its translucency.
On the other hand, both the Ayara and the Jupiter Brown switches have nylon bottom housings. This material is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound with its softer plastic nature. As a result, typing on switches with nylon bottom housings, whether it's the Ayara or the Jupiter Brown, will provide a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches contributes to a duller and rounder sound that enhances the overall typing experience.
When comparing the top and bottom housing materials of the Ayara and the Jupiter Brown, it becomes evident how each material contributes to the overall sound profile of the switch. The split qualities between the top and bottom housing result in a combination effect when typing on these switches. The impact of the bottom housing is more noticeable during bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing plays a significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Despite the differences in their top housing materials, both switches offer a unique typing experience with a focus on sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, there are noticeable differences. The Ayara has an actuation force of None grams, meaning it is light to the touch, while the Jupiter Brown has an actuation force of 55 grams, providing a bit more resistance. In terms of bottom out force, the Ayara requires 62 grams of force, falling into the medium category, whereas the Jupiter Brown requires 70 grams, making it slightly heavier. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to the variance in actuation and bottom out force. Users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions may lean towards the Ayara, while those who prefer a more substantial typing experience might prefer the Jupiter Brown for its heavier force requirements. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
Both the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either switch, you will experience the same amount of travel distance from the top to the bottom. The similarity in their travel distances ensures that users will get consistent results in terms of key feel and feedback. It's worth noting that both switches have a relatively short travel distance compared to other switches on the market, making them ideal for quick and responsive typing experiences.
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 Jupiter Brown comes in at $2.80 per 10 switches.
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 with a moderate actuation force requirement. This results in a satisfying typing experience suitable for a wide range of users, whether beginner or advanced, and for various settings like home or work. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch's sound profile is unknown, so it's difficult to directly compare with the Ayara in this aspect. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is influenced not only by the switch itself but also by external factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Turning to the feel of the switches, the Ayara linear switch provides a polished typing experience with a smooth and refined finish. This translates to reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing feel. On the tactile side, the Gateron Jupiter Brown switch offers a mild typing experience, making it approachable to a wide range of users due to its safe middle-ground characteristics. Additionally, the Jupiter Brown switch is also described as polished, providing a sleek typing experience similar to the Ayara linear switch.
Overall, both the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. The Ayara switch is recommended for those looking for a hearty typing experience with a neutral sound profile and polished feel, while the Jupiter Brown switch combines tradition with innovation, offering a more classic keystroke feel with high-precision molds and enhanced softer backlight effects. Whether you choose the Ayara or Jupiter Brown switch, you can expect a satisfying and reliable typing experience tailored to your preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Brown tactile switch, consider your preference for typing experience and sound profile. If you prefer a hearty typing experience with a soft bottom-out feel and clacky sound profile, opt for the Ayara linear switch. On the other hand, if you prefer a more classic keystroke feel with a medium-heavy weight and high-precision molds, the Jupiter Brown tactile switch is a great choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and the type of typing experience you are seeking.
Mentioned in this article
