SP-Star Ayara vs. Gateron Jupiter Red
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the Gateron Jupiter Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the SP-Star Ayara and Gateron Jupiter Red both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Ayara is a linear switch known for its medium heftiness, providing a hearty typing experience with a soft bottom-out feel and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Red offers a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke with a medium-heavy actuation, along with high-precision molds and softer backlight effects for a seamless typing experience. Each switch has its own distinct characteristics and appeal, with the Ayara being categorized as neutral, high-pitched, and polished, and the Jupiter Red as polished, creamy, silky, mild, and neutral. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
60g
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 primary difference between the housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the Gateron Jupiter Red lies in their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Ayara's nylon housing provides a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. In contrast, the Jupiter Red's polycarbonate housing offers a sharper and crisper sound with its stiffer plastic construction, creating a more clear and resonant sound profile. Additionally, the Jupiter Red's clear polycarbonate housing is ideal for showcasing RGB lighting effects, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switch.
However, despite their differences, both switches feature nylon bottom housings. This means that when typing on either the Ayara or Jupiter Red, users can expect a similar deep and full sound profile due to the commonality in the housing material. The impact of the bottom housing on the switch's sound and feel will be consistent between the two switches, as nylon's softer plastic composition absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Whether using the Ayara or Jupiter Red, users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound quality.
In terms of functionality, the top and bottom housing materials of a switch play a crucial role in determining the overall typing experience. While the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel of a keypress, the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. With the Ayara's nylon housing offering a deeper and fuller sound profile and the Jupiter Red's polycarbonate housing providing a sharper and crisper sound, users can choose a switch based on their preferred sound profile. Ultimately, understanding the differences in housing materials can help users make an informed decision when selecting a switch for their mechanical keyboard setup.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, it is clear that the Ayara requires no specific actuation force, making it a light option in terms of force needed for keystrokes. In contrast, the Jupiter Red requires 45 grams of force for actuation, which is still considered relatively light. When it comes to bottom out force, the Ayara has a heavier bottom out force of 62 grams compared to the Jupiter Red's 60 grams. Both switches fall into the medium category when it comes to bottom out force. Overall, the Ayara may provide a slightly more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force, while the Jupiter Red offers a lighter actuation force for a smoother typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and weight preferences.
Travel distance
The SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch have identical travel distances of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel from the top to the bottom. As a result, both switches will offer a consistent typing experience in terms of key travel distance. The similarity in travel distance between the two switches ensures that users will get similar results in terms of key feel and feedback, making them equally suitable choices for those who prefer a 4 mm travel distance.
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 Red 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 comparing the sound of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, both are described as having a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for a variety of typing environments. The Ayara switch, however, is noted for its high-pitched sound, providing a sharp and crisp tone when pressed, which may appeal to those who prefer a brighter sound. On the other hand, the Jupiter Red switch offers a smoother, uninterrupted keystroke without the high-pitched tones, making it a more consistent option for those seeking a quieter typing experience.
In terms of feel, both the Ayara and Jupiter Red switches are described as polished, offering a sleek and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Additionally, the Jupiter Red switch is noted for its creamy and silky feel, providing a buttery sensation with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. This makes the Jupiter Red switch a top choice for those who prioritize a smooth and effortless typing experience.
Overall, while both the SP-Star Ayara and Gateron Jupiter Red linear switches offer polished and smooth typing experiences, they differ slightly in sound characteristics. The Ayara switch provides a clacky, high-pitched sound profile, appealing to those who enjoy a sharper tone, while the Jupiter Red switch offers a quieter, more consistent sound without the high-pitched tones. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for sound and the desired tactile experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, it all comes down to your personal preferences. If you enjoy a medium heftness and a clacky sound profile, the Ayara switches would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke with a medium-heavy actuation, along with high-precision molds and softer backlight effects, the Jupiter Red switches might be the better option. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a hearty typing experience or a seamless and consistent one. Consider your preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Mentioned in this article
