SP-Star Ayara vs. KTT Mint
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the KTT Mint switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options in the market are the SP-Star Ayara and the KTT Mint, both of which are linear switches. The Ayara switch is best known for its medium heftness, making it ideal for those who seek a hearty typing experience. With a soft bottom-out feel and a perfectly clacky sound profile, the Ayara switch ensures a satisfying and tactile experience. On the other hand, the Mint switch offers a smooth linear feel that is incredibly satisfying. Its long pole stem gives it a poppy thockiness when typing, resulting in a unique typing experience. Additionally, the Mint switch provides a light and fleeting type feel, which can be preferred by those who desire a gentle key press. 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
53g
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Two-stage
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the KTT Mint differ in terms of their sound profiles and overall aesthetics. The Ayara features a nylon top housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the Ayara switches. In contrast, the Mint utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer plastic of polycarbonate produces a more clear and resonant sound experience, especially when combined with RGB lighting due to its translucency.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Ayara and the Mint employ nylon as their material of choice. This classic switch housing material brings about a deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to that of the nylon top housing. With nylon being a softer plastic and having sound-absorbing properties, both switches utilize this to create a duller and rounder sound when typing. This consistency in using nylon for the bottom housing ensures a similar sound experience across both switches.
The difference in top and bottom housing materials means that the Ayara and the Mint will have varying effects on the overall sound profile depending on the stage of keypress. The bottom housing material has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the top housing material plays a more prominent role in the sound produced when the key is released. This difference in material distribution allows for a more dynamic and nuanced typing experience based on the specific qualities of each housing material.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, one noticeable difference is the actuation force. The Ayara's actuation force is listed as unavailable grams, while the Mint requires a lighter 45 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. Since the Ayara's actuation force is unknown, it is difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect. However, it is important to note that both switches fall within the medium to medium-light range for bottom out force. The Ayara has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is slightly heavier than the Mint's 53 grams.
The consideration of weight becomes important when choosing between these switches. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Mint switch's lower actuation and bottom out forces would be more suitable. This allows for longer typing sessions and could be advantageous for individuals bringing their keyboard to work or engaging in extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who desire a more substantial typing experience and a stronger push feel may lean towards switches with heavier forces. As such, if the actuation force of the Ayara switch is similar to or heavier than the bottom out force, users can expect a more pronounced and satisfying typing feedback. Overall, the Mint switch is lighter in terms of actuation force, while the Ayara switch is slightly heavier in terms of bottom out force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch is the distance it travels from the top to the bottom, which is the distance felt when pressing down on a key. In the case of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch, both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on the keys equipped with either of these switches, you will experience a similar travel distance. Therefore, the SP-Star Ayara and the KTT Mint have the same travel distance.
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 KTT Mint comes in at $2.91 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
The SP-Star Ayara linear switch is best known for its medium heftness and hearty typing experience. When typing on these switches, users will experience a soft bottom-out feel and a perfectly clacky sound profile. The sound of the Ayara switch can be described as neutral, producing a moderate sound profile suitable for most purposes. Additionally, the Ayara switch has a polished feel, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the KTT Mint linear switch offers a satisfyingly smooth typing experience. Due to its long pole stem, users can expect a poppy thockiness when typing on these switches. The Mint switch has a low-pitched sound profile, featuring a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Similar to the Ayara switch, the Mint switch also has a polished feel, providing a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, both the SP-Star Ayara and KTT Mint linear switches offer unique qualities for keyboard enthusiasts. The Ayara switch provides a hearty typing experience with a neutral sound profile and a polished feel, ensuring smooth and refined key travel. On the other hand, the Mint switch offers a satisfyingly smooth typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile and a polished feel. Depending on personal preferences, both switches are suitable options for different typing experiences. Whether you prefer a medium heftness or a light and fleeting type feel, both switches will deliver similar results in terms of sound and feel. Ultimately, the choice between the Ayara and Mint switches will depend on individual preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a hearty typing experience with a soft bottom-out feel and clacky sound, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch would be the best choice for you. With a medium bottom out force of 62 grams, this switch offers a medium heftness that many enthusiasts enjoy. On the other hand, if you prefer a light and fleeting typing experience with a smooth and satisfyingly poppy thockiness, the KTT Mint linear switch would be a great option. With a medium-light bottom out force of 53 grams, this switch provides a light and smooth typing feel, thanks to its long pole stem.
In terms of sound, the Ayara switch is described as having a medium and high-pitched sound profile, making it suitable for most intents and purposes. On the other hand, the Mint switch offers a low-pitched sound profile, which produces a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Both switches have a moderate actuation force requirement, making them versatile options for both beginners and advanced typists, whether at home or work.
When it comes to feel, the Ayara switch is polished, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Mint switch, on the other hand, offers a mild and polished typing experience, providing a gentle and approachable feel that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone.
Ultimately, the choice between the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the KTT Mint linear switch depends on your personal preferences. Consider whether you prioritize a hearty typing experience with a clacky sound (Ayara) or a light and fleeting feel with a smooth and poppy thockiness (Mint). Additionally, think about the sound profile you prefer, whether it's neutral or low-pitched. Both switches offer a polished finish, ensuring a sleek and refined typing experience.
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