SP-Star Ayara vs. Durock Lupine
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the Durock Lupine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, there are a multitude of options available. Two popular choices are the SP-Star Ayara and the Durock Lupine, both of which fall under the category of linear switches. The Ayara is best known for its medium heftness and is recommended for those who prefer a hearty typing experience. With a soft bottom-out feel and a perfectly clacky sound profile, it provides a satisfying typing sensation. On the other hand, the Lupine stands out due to its two-stage long springs, offering consistent weight distribution when pressing down and a more powerful upward movement on the rebound. It also produces a classic clacky sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities, so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your specific preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Two-stage long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the Durock Lupine differ significantly. The Ayara features a nylon top housing, while the Lupine utilizes a polycarbonate top housing. The Ayara's nylon top housing absorbs more sound due to its softer plastic composition, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Conversely, the Lupine's polycarbonate top housing is stiffer, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the polycarbonate top housing is advantageous for RGB lighting purposes, thanks to its translucency. Therefore, the two housing materials create distinct sound and visual effects.
On the other hand, both the Ayara and Lupine share a common nylon bottom housing. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for its ability to elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile. Due to its relatively softer plastic composition, nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel of the switches, both the Ayara and Lupine provide similar qualities due to their shared nylon bottom housing.
It is important to note that the top and bottom housings of a switch play different roles in the overall typing experience. While the bottom housing affects the bottom-out sound and feel, the top housing contributes to the sound when a key is released. Thus, the choice of housing material for the top and bottom components can greatly impact the overall typing experience. In the case of the Ayara and Lupine, the difference in their respective top housing materials, nylon and polycarbonate, will result in varying sound profiles upon key release. Therefore, it becomes crucial to consider the specific qualities brought by each housing material to ensure the desired typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch, the actuation force and bottom out force are both unavailable for both switches. However, it can be assumed that the actuation force of both switches is similar since it is not specified otherwise. Both switches have a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is considered medium.
Considering weight, some users may prefer a lighter switch to allow for longer typing sessions, making it suitable for work or extended gaming. However, others may prefer a heavier switch to provide a more substantial typing experience. In this case, it is difficult to determine which switch is lighter and which one is heavier since the information is not provided.
In conclusion, while the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Ayara and Durock Lupine switches are not explicitly stated, it can be assumed that they are similar in terms of actuation force. Both switches have a medium bottom out force of 62 grams. The preference for a lighter or heavier switch ultimately depends on the individual's typing preferences and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distances of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Durock Lupine linear switch differ slightly. The Ayara has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Lupine has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. Based on these measurements, it can be said that the Ayara has a longer travel distance compared to the Lupine switch. The 4.0mm travel distance of the Ayara is more in line with the traditional distances, while the 3.7mm travel distance of the Lupine is slightly shallower. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Lupine switch, as it allows for quicker key presses. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more pronounced depth when pressing down on a key may opt for the Ayara switch with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness.
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 Durock Lupine has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lupine for $4.25.
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, both the Ayara and the Lupine switches have a neutral sound profile. This means that they have a moderate sound level that is suitable for most purposes. However, the Ayara switches are also described as having a high-pitched sound, which produces a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. If you prefer a sound that is less rich and bassy, the high-pitched Ayara switches would be a good choice. It is important to note that the sound of the switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Ayara switches are described as polished. This means that they have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. The polished Ayara switches offer reduced friction and smooth key travel, providing a satisfying typing feel. On the other hand, the Lupine switches are described as mild. This means that they offer a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The Lupine switches fall into a safe, middle-ground zone of sound and feel that is approachable to most users. Additionally, like the Ayara switches, the Lupine switches are also polished, providing a smooth key travel experience.
Overall, both the Ayara and Lupine switches offer favorable subjective qualities. They both have a neutral sound profile that is suitable for various purposes, and their polished finish ensures a smooth and refined typing experience. While the Ayara switches have a high-pitched sound option for those who prefer a sharper sound, the Lupine switches offer a mild feel that is suitable for most users. Depending on your personal preferences, either switch would provide a satisfying typing experience. It is important to consider other factors such as your choice of board and keycaps, which can also impact the overall sound and feel of the switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a hearty typing experience with a soft bottom-out feel and a clacky sound profile, we would recommend the SP-Star Ayara linear switches. These switches have a bottom out force of 62 grams, making them medium in terms of heaviness. They are best suited for those who enjoy a more robust typing feel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a consistent weight distribution when pressing down and a more powerful upward movement on the rebound, the Durock Lupine linear switches would be a great choice. These switches also have a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is medium. They provide a treat to type on due to their two-stage long springs and produce a classic clacky sound profile.
In terms of sound, both switches fall under the neutral category, meaning they have a moderate sound profile. However, if you prefer a sharper and crisper sound, the higher-pitched Ayara switches would be a better option.
When it comes to feel, the Ayara switches are described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience. They have reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Lupine switches are described as mild, providing a gentle typing experience that falls in the safe, middle-ground zone. Both switches are also polished, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the decision between the SP-Star Ayara and Durock Lupine switches depends on your personal preferences. Consider whether you prefer a hearty typing experience with a softer bottom-out feel or a consistent weight distribution and powerful rebound. Additionally, take into account the sound profile and whether you prefer a neutral or higher-pitched sound. Lastly, consider the feel and whether you prioritize a polished and sleek typing experience.
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