SP-Star Ayara vs. Cherry MX Silent Red
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the Cherry MX Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the SP-Star Ayara and Cherry MX Silent Red both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Ayara switch is favored for its medium heftiness, providing a hearty typing experience with a soft bottom-out feel and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the MX Silent Red offers a similar typing experience to the MX Red but with the added benefit of operating silently, making it ideal for noise-sensitive environments. While the Ayara switch is categorized as 'Neutral', 'High-pitched', and 'Polished', the MX Silent Red is categorized as 'Muted', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', and 'Textured'. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing needs. 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
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
In comparing the housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the Cherry MX Silent Red, both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This common material choice results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on either switch. Nylon's softer plastic composition allows it to absorb more sound than harder plastics, producing a duller and rounder sound overall. This similarity in housing materials means that users can expect similar acoustic experiences when using these switches, with slight variations based on other design factors.
One key difference between the two switches lies in the overall design and construction of the housing materials. While both the Ayara and the MX Silent Red use nylon for their top and bottom housings, the specific shaping and molding of these components may differ. This variation in design can impact the sound and feel of the switches when typing, with differences in the bottom-out sound and key release sound. Despite both switches utilizing nylon, these subtle design variances can result in distinct typing experiences for users.
Overall, the similarities between the housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the Cherry MX Silent Red contribute to a consistent sound profile characterized by deeper tones and a fuller sound when typing. The use of nylon for both the top and bottom housings ensures a level of sound absorption that creates a quieter typing experience compared to switches made from harder plastics. While differences in design may slightly alter the typing experience between the two switches, users can expect comparable acoustic qualities when using switches with nylon housing.
Weight
In comparing the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, it is evident that the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in their performance characteristics. The Ayara switch has an actuation force of None grams, making it very light in terms of initial keypress resistance, while its bottom out force of 62 grams provides a medium level of resistance when fully depressed. On the other hand, the MX Silent Red switch has an actuation force of 45 grams, offering a slightly higher initial resistance compared to the Ayara. However, the bottom out force for the MX Silent Red is unknown, making it difficult to directly compare to the Ayara in terms of overall weight. The differences in actuation and bottom out forces between the two switches highlight the importance of considering individual preferences for typing or gaming experiences. Ultimately, those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Ayara, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance may favor the MX Silent Red for a more tactile typing experience.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, we find that the Ayara has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the MX Silent Red has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. The Ayara provides a slightly longer travel distance, offering a traditional feel that some users may prefer. On the other hand, the MX Silent Red offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference, with the Ayara offering a bit more depth and the MX Silent Red providing a slightly quicker feel. Both switches offer a balance between depth and responsiveness, ensuring that users will get similar results regardless of which option they choose.
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 Cherry MX Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
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 provides a high-pitched and clacky typing experience, suitable for those who enjoy a sharp and crisp sound profile. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch offers a muted and thocky sound, minimizing noise and providing a deep, rich tone when typing. If you prefer a quieter typing experience, the MX Silent Red would be the better choice, while the Ayara switch would be ideal for those who appreciate a more pronounced and high-pitched sound.
When it comes to feel, the Ayara switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Conversely, the MX Silent Red switch is described as textured, with noticeable friction when pressed. Some users may prefer the subtle texture of the MX Silent Red for added tactile feedback, while others may find the polished feel of the Ayara switch more comfortable for extended typing sessions.
Overall, if you prioritize a hearty and clacky typing experience with a high-pitched sound profile, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch would be the way to go. On the other hand, if you value a quieter typing experience with a deep and rich sound profile, the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch would be more suitable for your needs. Both switches offer their unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, providing a satisfying typing experience depending on individual preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience and noise level. If you enjoy a hearty typing experience with a clacky sound profile, the Ayara switch with its medium bottom out force could be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quieter typing experience without sacrificing the satisfying feel of a linear switch, the MX Silent Red switch would be a better fit with its silent operation. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer a medium heftiness with a clacky sound (Ayara) or a quieter, more muted typing experience (MX Silent Red). Choose the switch that best aligns with your typing preferences and environment.
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