SP-Star Ayara vs. Durock Mamba
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the Durock Mamba switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The SP-Star Ayara and the Durock Mamba are two popular choices when it comes to mechanical keyboard switches. While both switches fall under the linear category, they offer distinct advantages that cater to different preferences. The Ayara is best known for its medium heftness, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a hearty typing experience. Typing on the Ayara provides a soft bottom-out feel and a perfectly clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Mamba pays tribute to Kobe Bryant and offers a gliding typing sensation with a rich and creamy auditory experience. Despite these generalities, it is essential to delve deeper into the characteristics and features of each switch to determine the best fit for your personal preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
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
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Two-stage
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the Durock Mamba switches have several similarities and differences. Both switches feature nylon housing materials, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile. However, there are differences in the sound characteristics between the two. The Ayara's nylon top housing creates a duller and rounder sound, while the Durock Mamba's Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend top housing offers a brighter sound profile that is not particularly sharp.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Ayara utilizes nylon, while the Mamba adopts a POM bottom housing material. Nylon, being a relatively softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound for the Ayara. On the other hand, the POM bottom housing of the Mamba creates a deeper and more muted sound profile. As a result, when pressing down on the Ayara switch, the qualities of the nylon bottom housing will be more noticeable in the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the sound experienced when releasing a key will be influenced more by the characteristics of the top housing.
Overall, while both switches share nylon housing materials, the specific blends used in the top housing of the Mamba and the bottom housing of the Ayara lead to distinct sound profiles. The Ayara produces a deeper and fuller sound, with a duller and rounder tone, while the Mamba offers a brighter sound that is not too sharp. It is worth noting that the impact of each housing material on the sound and feel of the switch may vary, with the bottom housing having more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing affecting the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, users can expect similar results when it comes to the overall sound characteristics, but with nuanced differences between the Ayara and the Mamba.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch, there are similarities and differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. Unfortunately, the exact actuation force for both switches is unknown. However, both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the Ayara having a bottom out force of 62 grams and the Mamba having a bottom out force of 60 grams.
In terms of weight, it is worth considering one's preference and intended usage. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may favor the Ayara or Mamba switches as they allow for longer periods of typing without fatigue. This lighter weight can be beneficial for individuals using keyboards at work or during long gaming sessions. On the other hand, some users might prefer a heavier actuation force to provide a more substantial typing experience. For these individuals, they may need to explore options with heavier forces beyond the Ayara and Mamba switches.
In conclusion, the Ayara and Mamba linear switches have similar medium bottom out forces but unknown actuation forces. They both offer options for individuals seeking a lighter typing experience, although the Mamba switch is slightly lighter with its 60-gram bottom out force. Those desiring a heavier actuation force will need to consider other options beyond these switches.
Travel distance
The SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Durock Mamba linear switch have different travel distances. The Ayara has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Mamba has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Ayara's 4.0mm travel distance is a more traditional and commonly found distance, providing a familiar and comfortable typing experience. On the other hand, the Mamba's 3.5mm travel distance is slightly shallower, making it popular among gamers who value faster response times. The shorter travel distance allows for quicker actuation, resulting in faster key presses. However, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance to be too abrupt or lacking in depth. If you prefer a more responsive typing experience, the Mamba with its shorter travel distance may be the better option for you. However, if you prefer a switch with more depth and a feel similar to traditional keyboards, the Ayara with its slightly longer travel distance would be a better choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preference and typing needs.
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 Mamba has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mamba for $5.17.
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 SP-Star Ayara linear switch has a neutral sound profile with a clacky sound when pressed. It is not high-pitched, so it does not produce a sharp and crisp sound. On the other hand, the Durock Mamba linear switch also has a neutral sound profile, but it is described as thocky. This means that it produces a deep and satisfying sound when pressed and released. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, if you prefer a clacky sound, the Ayara switch would be a good choice, while the Mamba switch would provide a more thocky auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch is described as polished, meaning it has a smooth and refined finish. This results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Durock Mamba linear switch is described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience without pronounced characteristics. It also has a polished finish, providing reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches offer a pleasant typing experience, but the Ayara switch may provide a slightly more refined and polished feel. However, the actual feel of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as lubrication.
In conclusion, the SP-Star Ayara and Durock Mamba linear switches have their unique subjective qualities. The Ayara switch is best known for its hearty typing experience with a soft bottom-out feel and clacky sound profile. It has a polished feel, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Mamba switch offers a gliding typing sensation and a rich and creamy auditory experience. It has a mild feel, providing a gentle typing experience with a thocky sound profile. Both switches have a neutral sound profile and a polished finish. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on individual preferences and the desired typing experience. If you prefer a clacky sound and a slightly more refined feel, the Ayara switch would be a good choice. However, if you prefer a thocky sound and a gentle typing experience, the Mamba switch would be a suitable option. In terms of overall performance, both switches would provide similar results in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're someone who values a hearty typing experience and enjoys a soft bottom-out feel with a clacky sound profile, then the SP-Star Ayara linear switch is the right choice for you. With a bottom-out force of 62 grams, it offers a medium heftiness that many typists appreciate. Additionally, if you prefer a more neutral sound with a high-pitched tone, the Ayara switch delivers just that. Its polished feel ensures a smooth and refined typing experience.
On the other hand, if you're a fan of Kobe Bryant and are looking for linear switches that provide a gliding typing sensation and a rich, creamy auditory experience, then the Durock Mamba linear switch is the one to go for. With a bottom-out force of 60 grams, it offers a similar medium heftiness to the Ayara. The Mamba switch also provides a neutral sound profile along with a thocky option for those who enjoy a deep and satisfying sound. Its polished feel adds to the overall sleek typing experience.
Ultimately, the decision between the SP-Star Ayara and Durock Mamba linear switches comes down to your personal preferences. Consider factors such as typing experience, sound profile, and feel to determine which switch aligns with your specific needs and desires.
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