SP-Star Ayara vs. TKC Kiwi
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the TKC Kiwi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the SP-Star Ayara and the TKC Kiwi. The Ayara is a linear switch, while the Kiwi is a tactile switch. The Ayara is best known for its hearty typing experience, providing a soft bottom-out feel and a satisfyingly clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Kiwi switches are designed to enhance your typing experience with a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press. They offer a snappy sound profile and come lightly factory lubed, ensuring a smooth and effortless typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities, so you can make an informed decision on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Two-stage
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the TKC Kiwi differ in terms of their properties and resulting sound profiles. The Ayara features a nylon top and bottom housing, which is a classic switch material known for its ability to produce a deep and full sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Kiwi incorporates a UHWMPE top and bottom housing, a newer material that offers a bright sound signature. Typing on switches with UHWMPE housings produces resonant clacks, creating a vibrant sound experience.
Although the housing materials of the Ayara and the Kiwi exhibit distinct characteristics, there are some similarities in terms of sound production. Both switches utilize classic housing materials, with the Ayara featuring nylon and the Kiwi incorporating UHWMPE. As a result, both switches yield satisfying sound profiles that enhance the typing experience. However, the Ayara's nylon housing is better suited for users who prefer a deeper and fuller sound, while the Kiwi's UHWMPE housing satisfies those seeking a brighter and more resonant clack.
The impact of the housing materials on the switches' sound profiles can also be analyzed based on their placement. The bottom housing of each switch plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed. The nylon bottom housing of the Ayara contributes to a deeper sound and a more cushioned feel upon keystroke, while the UHWMPE bottom housing of the Kiwi ensures a brighter and more impactful bottom-out experience. On the other hand, the sound when a key is released is influenced by the top housing. The nylon top housing of the Ayara creates a duller and rounder sound upon key release, while the UHWMPE top housing of the Kiwi produces a resonant clack, adding to the overall energetic sound signature.
In conclusion, while the housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the TKC Kiwi differ, they both offer unique sound profiles that enhance the typing experience. The Ayara's nylon housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound, creating a duller and rounder overall profile. In contrast, the Kiwi's UHWMPE housing generates a brighter and more resonant clack, resulting in a vibrant sound signature. The placement of the housing materials in each switch also influences the bottom-out and key release sounds, allowing users to tailor their typing experience based on their preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer satisfying sound profiles, with the Ayara leaning towards a more mellow tone and the Kiwi providing a more energetic and impactful sound.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch, we can observe some similarities and differences. Starting with the actuation force, the Ayara's specific grams are unavailable, while the Kiwi requires 43 grams to trigger a keystroke. Both switches can provide a relatively light touch to typing, allowing for longer periods of use without fatigue.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Ayara requires 62 grams, which falls into the medium range. This provides a satisfactory push feel for most typists. On the other hand, the Kiwi tactile switch has a slightly higher bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy. This heavier force may appeal to those seeking a more substantial typing experience.
Considering weight, both switches have their advantages. The Ayara's unavailable actuation force could potentially align with the Kiwi's 43-gram actuation force, resulting in similar results when it comes to triggering keystrokes. However, the Ayara's 62-gram bottom out force is lighter compared to the Kiwi's 67 grams. This means that individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Ayara, while those who desire a more pronounced push feel may find the Kiwi more suitable.
Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience. Those prioritizing lighter keystrokes for extended typing sessions may opt for the Ayara, while individuals seeking a more substantial push feel may lean towards the slightly heavier TKC Kiwi.
Travel distance
Both the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel a consistent 4 mm distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Both switches provide a similar tactile feedback and deliver a satisfying typing experience. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, the results obtained from using the Ayara and Kiwi switches will be almost identical.
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 TKC Kiwi comes in at $8.00 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 Ayara switch offers a clacky sound profile that is described as perfectly satisfying. This means that when you press the keys, you can expect a sharp and crisp sound. On the other hand, the Kiwi switch provides a low-pitched sound that is more bass-heavy and mellow in tone. This creates a more immersive and calming typing experience. If you prefer a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, both switches can cater to your needs. It is important to note that the sound of the switches can also be influenced by factors such as your choice of keyboard and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the Ayara switch is known for its polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. The reduced friction and smooth key travel make it easier to glide your fingers across the keys effortlessly. On the other hand, the Kiwi switch offers a stepped feel, which means it has two stages of tactility. This provides a more mild and subtle tactile feedback compared to switches with a single large bump. The Kiwi switch is also described as accented, meaning it provides a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or scratchy. Both switches are suitable for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience, but they offer different levels and styles of tactility.
Considering all the available information, the Ayara and Kiwi switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ayara switch provides a clacky sound with a soft bottom-out feel, making it suitable for those who prefer a hearty typing experience. On the other hand, the Kiwi switch delivers a satisfyingly snappy sound with a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, enhancing the overall typing experience. The Ayara switch is polished, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel, while the Kiwi switch offers a stepped feel with accented tactility. If you are looking for similar results, you can expect both switches to provide a neutral sound profile and a moderate typing experience. However, the Ayara switch focuses more on clacky sound and a polished feel, while the Kiwi switch emphasizes a snappy sound and stepped, accented tactility.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you prefer a hearty typing experience and a soft bottom-out feel, along with a clacky sound profile, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch may be the right choice for you. Its medium bottom out force of 62 grams provides a satisfying typing experience without being too heavy. On the other hand, if you want to enhance your typing experience with a medium to medium-strong tactile bump at the top of each key press, along with a snappy sound profile, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch is a great option. With a bottom out force of 67 grams, it offers a slightly heavier feel compared to the Ayara.
When it comes to sound, the Ayara is described as having a neutral or high-pitched sound profile, providing flexibility in sound preference. If you prefer a sharp and crisp sound, the high-pitched option would be suitable for you. On the other hand, the Kiwi has a low-pitched sound profile, which offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone.
In terms of feel, both switches have a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. This is achieved through materials used and/or factory lubing, which reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel. Additionally, the Kiwi switch offers a stepped and accented feel, providing a medium level of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle.
Ultimately, the choice between the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the TKC Kiwi tactile switch depends on your personal preferences. Consider factors such as typing experience, sound profile, and tactile feel when making your decision.
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