SP-Star Ayara vs. Gazzew LT
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the Gazzew LT switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the SP-Star Ayara and the Gazzew LT. The Ayara switches are best known for their medium heftness, offering a hearty typing experience that some keyboard enthusiasts may prefer. Typing on these switches provides a soft bottom-out feel and a perfectly clacky sound profile, making each keystroke satisfying. On the other hand, the Gazzew LT switches stand out with their enticing lilac hue and offer an auditory symphony of deep, resonant thockiness. These switches are categorized as bassy and thocky, providing a unique sound profile that many users enjoy. In addition, the LTs offer a seamless glide with every keystroke, further enhancing the typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the most suitable switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Two-stage
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the Gazzew LT differ in terms of the materials used. The Ayara's nylon top housing is made of classic switch housing material, nylon. This softer plastic material absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. On the other hand, the LT's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing utilizes a different plastic blend, often referred to as "boba plastic." This unique blend contributes to a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. While both materials aim to enhance the typing experience, their composition and properties offer distinct results.
Similarly, the bottom housing materials of the Ayara and the LT also diverge. The Ayara uses nylon as the bottom housing material, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its softness allows for better sound absorption, resulting in a more rounded and muted sound. In contrast, the LT features a proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing that is also soft, sometimes referred to as "boba plastic." This specific blend is designed to deliver a rich and deep sound profile, similar to the top housing. The choice of bottom housing material in both switches significantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the keys.
It is important to note that if the top and bottom housings are different for a switch, the qualities brought by each housing material will be divided between the top and bottom parts of the switch. When you press down on a switch, the bottom housing's qualities will be more prominent, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Meanwhile, the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound when you release a key. Despite the variations in their respective housing materials, both the Ayara and the LT ultimately aim to enhance the typing experience, offering unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences and requirements.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Gazzew LT linear switch, there are some similarities and differences in terms of their actuation force and bottom out force. Unfortunately, the exact actuation force for both switches is unknown. However, we can compare their bottom out forces to get an idea of their relative weights.
The Ayara has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which can be considered medium. On the other hand, the LT has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy range. This means that the LT switch requires a slightly stronger push to fully activate compared to the Ayara.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Ayara may be the preferable option. Its lower bottom out force allows for easier keystrokes, making it suitable for longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions. However, if you prefer a more substantial and tactile typing experience, the LT switch might be more suitable. Its slightly heavier bottom out force provides a stronger push feel, which some individuals find more satisfying.
In conclusion, while the exact actuation force of both switches is unavailable, we can compare their bottom out forces to evaluate their respective weights. The Ayara has a lighter bottom out force, while the LT is slightly heavier. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing sensation.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Gazzew LT linear switch, it is evident that they differ in this aspect. The Ayara has a travel distance of 4.0mm, which is considered to be a traditional distance, while the LT has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.2mm. The Ayara provides a deeper keypress, allowing for a more satisfying and substantial feel when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the LT offers a shallower travel distance, which may appeal to gamers seeking a faster response time. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the desired level of keypress depth.
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 Gazzew LT comes in at $6.50 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
In terms of sound, the Ayara switch is known for its neutral sound profile, offering a moderate and crisp sound when pressed. This makes it suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you intend to use the keyboard at home or work. On the other hand, the Gazzew LT switch is described as having a bassy and thocky sound profile. This means that when pressed, the LT switch produces a deeper and richer sound, resembling a satisfying "thud" or "knock". Additionally, the LT switch has a lower frequency range, adding to the depth and richness associated with bass tones. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Ayara switch is described as having a polished feel. This indicates that the switch has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. The materials used and potential factory lubing contribute to reduced friction and smooth key travel with the Ayara switches. Unfortunately, there is no specific information available regarding the feel of the Gazzew LT switches.
In conclusion, the Ayara and Gazzew LT switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ayara switch provides a neutral sound profile and a polished feel, resulting in a moderate and crisp typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew LT switch offers a bassy and thocky sound profile, providing a deeper and richer sound during key presses. However, without specific information about the feel of the LT switches, it is difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect. Nevertheless, based on the available information, both switches aim to deliver a satisfying typing experience, but with different sound characteristics.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you prefer a hearty typing experience with a soft bottom-out feel and a clacky sound profile, then the SP-Star Ayara linear switch is the ideal choice for you. With its medium bottom out force of 62 grams, the Ayara offers a satisfying typing experience that is suitable for both beginners and advanced users. Additionally, the Ayara switch has a neutral sound profile, making it versatile for various settings, whether at home or at work.
On the other hand, if you desire an auditory symphony of deep, resonant thockiness and a seamless glide with every keystroke, then the Gazzew LT linear switch is the perfect option. With a slightly heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, the LT provides a unique lilac hue and a rich, bass-heavy sound profile. The LT switch is characterized by its thocky sound and low-pitched tone, which adds depth and richness to the typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Ayara and LT switches depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize a clacky and tactile experience, opt for the Ayara. However, if you are seeking a more immersive and sonorous typing experience, the Gazzew LT switch is the way to go. Whichever switch you choose, both the Ayara and LT offer their own unique features and qualities that will enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.
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