SP-Star Ayara vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the SP-Star Ayara and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) both offer unique features worth considering. The Ayara switch is praised for its medium heftiness and soft bottom-out feel, making it ideal for those seeking a hearty typing experience with a clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) is favored for its smooth and budget-friendly linear design, providing a buttery smoothness and a pleasing low-pitched "thock" sound. While the Ayara switch leans towards a more polished and high-pitched sound, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) offers a bassy and thocky feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Two-stage
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) are both made of nylon, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. This softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches utilizing a nylon housing. Both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound quality due to their shared nylon top and bottom housings, which contribute to the overall sound profile of each switch.
However, despite both switches using nylon for their housing materials, there may still be subtle differences in the typing experience between the Ayara and the Milky Red Pro (KS-3). The way the nylon material is utilized in the top and bottom housings of each switch can impact the overall sound and feel when typing. The qualities of the bottom housing, such as the bottom-out sound and feel, may vary slightly between the two switches, as the bottom housing material can influence these aspects of the typing experience differently.
In conclusion, while the SP-Star Ayara and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) both feature nylon housing materials that create a deeper and fuller sound profile, there may be minor distinctions in the overall typing experience due to the design and composition of their top and bottom housings. Despite these potential differences, the use of nylon in both switches will lead to a similar sound profile when typing, as the qualities of this material are known to absorb more sound and create a rounded sound when compared to harder plastics.
Weight
The SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Ayara switch has an actuation force of None grams, meaning it is light to the touch, while the bottom out force is 62 grams, providing a medium level of resistance. In contrast, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch has an actuation force of 45 grams, making it slightly lighter than the Ayara, and a bottom out force of 52 grams, which is also on the medium side but leans towards being lighter. This means that the Ayara switch requires more force to bottom out compared to the Milky Red Pro switch. Those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Ayara due to its heavier bottom out force, while those who enjoy a lighter touch may opt for the Milky Red Pro. Both switches provide a different typing experience, so the choice ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
Both the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance in terms of travel. This provides a consistent typing experience regardless of which switch you choose. The similar travel distances of these switches make them suitable for users who prefer a standard keypress feel without any significant differences in distance traveled. Overall, both the Ayara and Milky Red Pro switches offer a familiar typing experience with their 4 mm travel distance, ensuring that users can achieve similar results when using either switch.
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 Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) has an MSRP of $2.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) for $2.30.
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 SP-Star Ayara linear switch offers a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, making it a versatile choice suitable for various typing scenarios. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch produces a low-pitched "thock" sound that is deep, rich, and satisfying, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Depending on personal preference, the Ayara offers a clacky sound profile, while the Milky Red Pro gives a smooth and pleasing auditory experience, evoking a buttery smoothness.
Moving on to the feel, the SP-Star Ayara switch is described as polished, offering a sleek and refined typing experience due to its smooth finish and reduced friction. This results in a satisfying key travel with minimal resistance. Conversely, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch provides a buttery feel, implying a smooth and fluid keystroke that is seamless, effortless, and uniform. Both switches prioritize comfort and smoothness in typing, making them suitable for extended use without causing fatigue.
In conclusion, while the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch have their own unique sound and feel characteristics, they both aim to provide a high-quality typing experience. The Ayara offers a clacky sound and a polished feel, suitable for those looking for a hearty typing experience with a smooth finish. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro produces a low-pitched "thock" sound and a buttery feel, catering to users who prefer a more budget-friendly yet smooth and satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience and sound profile. If you enjoy a medium heftness with a soft bottom-out feel and clacky sound, the Ayara switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and affordable typing experience with a pleasing low-pitched “thock” sound, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch is a great option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking to achieve.
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