SP-Star Ayara vs. KTT Kang White
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the KTT Kang White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the SP-Star Ayara and KTT Kang White both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Ayara switch, being a linear switch, is best known for its medium heftiness, making it perfect for those who prefer a hearty typing experience. Typing on the Ayara switches provides a soft bottom-out feel and a perfectly clacky sound profile, which can enhance the typing experience. On the other hand, the Kang White switch, also a linear switch, stands out for its exquisite representation of a poppy linear switch. Typing on these switches produces a dazzling typing sound that is sure to please. Additionally, the Kang Whites have a self-lubricating material that offers an unparalleled smoothness when typing on them. While these general pointers can give you an idea of what each switch offers, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities, so you can best decide on the switch that suits you best.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Two-stage
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the KTT Kang White differ significantly. The Ayara features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic's ability to absorb more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Kang White utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The polycarbonate's stiffness contributes to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the polycarbonate top housing of the Kang White is suitable for RGB lighting due to its translucency.
Interestingly, both switches share a nylon bottom housing material. As a classic switch housing material, nylon elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. Therefore, regardless of the switch, typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing will result in a similar duller and rounder sound.
It is important to note that when the top and bottom housings differ, each contributes unique qualities to the overall sound and feel of the switch. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. Therefore, the choice between the Ayara and the Kang White will depend on whether one prefers the softer, absorbing qualities of nylon or the sharper, clearer characteristics of polycarbonate for their switch experience.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch, their actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role. The Ayara's actuation force is unavailable, while the Kang White requires 45 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Ayara requires a heavier 62 grams, whereas the Kang White has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 58 grams.
Weight is a crucial consideration when choosing between these switches. Many users prefer a lighter switch, as it allows for comfortable typing over extended periods, making it ideal for work or long gaming sessions. In this aspect, the Kang White is the lighter option with its lower actuation force. However, some individuals prefer a more substantial typing experience, desiring a stronger push feel. For these users, a switch with a heavier force is recommended. In this case, both the Ayara and Kang White provide a medium bottom out force, offering a satisfactory typing experience.
While we have the actuation force unavailable for the Ayara, we can still draw some conclusions. If the actuation force of the Ayara is similar to its bottom out force, which is medium at 62 grams, it would provide a consistent typing experience. Similarly, as the Kang White's actuation force and bottom out force are relatively close in value, at 45 grams and 58 grams respectively, users can expect similar results from both stages of the keystroke.
Ultimately, individuals seeking a lighter typing experience may opt for the Kang White linear switch, while those craving a more substantial push feel may lean towards the Ayara linear switch (assuming its actuation force aligns with the bottom out force).
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch is the distance it travels from the top to the bottom when pressed. This is the distance that you can feel when you press down on a key. In the case of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the KTT Kang White linear switch, both switches have a travel distance of 4 mm. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of the distance traveled when pressing down on a key with either switch. It's worth noting that both switches have the same travel distance, making them equal in this regard.
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 KTT Kang White comes in at $1.99 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
The Ayara linear switch is best known for its medium heftness, making it suitable for those who prefer a hearty typing experience. When typing on the Ayara switches, users can expect a soft bottom-out feel and a perfectly clacky sound profile. The sound produced by the Ayara switches is described as neutral, with a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile. This makes it suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced, or if you are planning to use these at home or work. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the choice of board and keycaps.
On the other hand, the KTT Kang White linear switch is best known for its exquisite representation of a poppy linear switch, resulting in a dazzling typing sound. The Kang White switches are described as low-pitched, featuring a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Like the Ayara, the Kang White switches have a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making them suitable for most users.
In terms of feel, the Ayara switches are described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience. This polished feel is achieved through the use of materials and/or factory lubing, reducing friction and providing smooth key travel. Unfortunately, no specific information is available about the feel of the Kang White switches.
In conclusion, the Ayara switches offer a medium heftness, soft bottom-out feel, and a clacky sound profile. They are suitable for those who prefer a hearty typing experience. On the other hand, the Kang White switches provide a poppy and dazzling typing sound, along with a low-pitched and mellow tone. Both switches have a moderate actuation force requirement and smooth key travel, ensuring a satisfying typing experience. Overall, while the sound and feel qualities differ between the Ayara and Kang White switches, both can provide similar results in terms of performance and user satisfaction.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a hearty typing experience with a soft bottom-out feel and a perfectly clacky sound profile, we recommend the Ayara linear switch. It has a medium bottom out force of 62 grams, making it suitable for most intents and purposes. The Ayara is also described as having a polished feel, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you appreciate a poppy linear switch with dazzling typing sound and unparalleled smoothness, the KTT Kang White is a great choice. It has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 58 grams, still within the medium range. The self-lubricating material used in the Kang White contributes to its smoothness when typing on it.
In terms of sound, the Ayara is described as having a neutral sound profile with the option for a higher-pitched switch, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users in various settings. Meanwhile, the Kang White is characterized by a low-pitched sound profile, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches.
Overall, if you prioritize a hearty typing experience with a polished feel and clacky sound, the Ayara linear switch is the way to go. If you prefer a poppy and smooth typing experience with a low-pitched sound, the KTT Kang White is a great choice. Consider your preferences and typing style to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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