SP-Star Ayara vs. KTT Orange
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the KTT Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the SP-Star Ayara and the KTT Orange. The Ayara switch is best suited for those seeking a robust typing experience with its medium heft and soft bottom-out feel. Its clacky sound profile adds to the overall satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switch offers a bouncy and frictionless typing feel, thanks to its 22mm long spring and excellent factory-lubing. With a low-pitched sound profile and its unique polycarbonate milky top housing, long pole POM stem, and vivid orange nylon bottom housing, the KTT Orange switch provides a refined and smooth key travel. However, beyond these generalities, let's dive deeper into the specific features and characteristics of each switch to help you make the best decision for your keyboard needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Two-stage
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the KTT Orange switches differ significantly. The Ayara features a nylon top housing while the Orange utilizes a polycarbonate top housing. The nylon top housing of the Ayara creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the Orange produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, characteristic of its relatively stiffer plastic composition. Aesthetically, the polycarbonate top housing is more favorable if RGB lighting is incorporated, as its translucency enhances the illumination effect. Despite these differences, both housing materials contribute to a unique sound and feel when pressing down on the keys.
Similarly, the bottom housings of these switches also vary in material. The Ayara's bottom housing is made of nylon, while the Orange's features a polycarbonate bottom housing. Like the top housing, the nylon bottom housing of the Ayara creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Orange produces a sharper and more resonant sound. Additionally, the impact and sound when bottoming out a key are influenced more by the qualities of the bottom housing. Consequently, the Ayara and Orange switches will provide distinct tactile and audible experiences when pressed.
Although the top and bottom housings differ between the SP-Star Ayara and the KTT Orange switches, both materials play a significant role in defining the overall sound profile of the switches. While the Ayara's nylon housing emphasizes a duller and rounder sound, the Orange's polycarbonate housing contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound. Despite these disparities, the qualities of each housing material can be appreciated individually when pressing and releasing a key. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it particularly advantageous for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Overall, the Ayara and the Orange switches offer unique housing materials that cater to different sound preferences and aesthetic considerations.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. In terms of actuation force, the Ayara's measurement is unfortunately not known, while the Orange has an actuation force of 46 grams. Both switches fall within the range of medium-light to medium force, indicating that they require a moderate amount of force to trigger a keystroke.
On the other hand, when considering the bottom out force, the Ayara has a measurement of 62 grams, which is slightly heavier than the Orange's bottom out force of 53 grams. This means that the Ayara provides a slightly more substantial typing experience, as it requires a bit more force to fully press down the keys compared to the Orange.
When it comes to weight, the Ayara's actuation force is unknown, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison in terms of lightness or heaviness. However, the Orange's actuation force of 46 grams suggests that it may be the lighter option in terms of actuation force, making it suitable for prolonged typing or gaming sessions.
In conclusion, while the actuation force of the Ayara remains unknown, both switches share a medium to medium-light force range. However, the Ayara has a heavier bottom out force compared to the Orange, providing a slightly more substantial typing feel. The weight consideration depends on determining the actuation force of the Ayara, but the Orange's actuation force implies its suitability for those who prefer a lighter typing experience.
Travel distance
The SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch have different travel distances. The Ayara has a travel distance of 4.0mm, which is a more traditional length, while the Orange has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5mm. The Ayara offers a deeper key press experience, allowing users to feel a greater sense of depth while typing. On the other hand, the Orange provides a shallower key press, which can be favored by gamers who prioritize faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference. If you prefer a more responsive typing experience, the shorter travel distance of the Orange may be the better option for you. However, if you enjoy a more substantial key press with a greater sense of depth, the Ayara's longer travel distance would be the way to go. Regardless of the choice, both switches offer their own advantages, yielding similar results in terms of functionality.
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 Orange has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange 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
When comparing the sound of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, there are some notable differences. The Ayara switch has a neutral sound profile, which means it produces a moderate and balanced sound when pressed. This makes it suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work. On the other hand, the Orange switch has a low-pitched sound, which gives it a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. If you prefer a richer and deeper sound profile, the Orange switch would be a good choice. However, it's important to note that the sound of the switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. It's recommended to consider these factors when selecting the switch to achieve the desired sound outcome.
In terms of the feel of the switches, the Ayara switch is described as polished, indicating that it has a smooth and refined finish. This results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The factory lubing of the switch adds to its polished feel, enhancing the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Orange switch offers a bouncy and frictionless typing experience. The 22mm long spring in the Orange switch provides a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, giving the keys a lively feel and rebound when pressed. Additionally, the excellent factory-lubing of the Orange switch ensures a refined and fluid key travel, minimizing resistance and friction. This combination of bouncy and frictionless qualities contributes to a highly enjoyable typing experience.
In conclusion, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the KTT Orange linear switch have distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ayara switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for most users and purposes. Its polished feel and reduced friction provide a sleek typing experience. On the other hand, the Orange switch has a low-pitched sound profile, offering a bass-heavy and mellow tone. Its bouncy and frictionless feel ensures a lively and effortless typing experience. Depending on personal preference, users can select the switch that aligns with their desired sound and feel. However, it's important to note that the overall experience is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. By considering these factors, users can achieve similar results in terms of sound and feel with either switch choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a hearty typing experience with a soft bottom-out feel and a clacky sound profile, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch is the way to go. With its medium bottom out force of 62 grams, it provides a satisfying typing experience suitable for both beginners and advanced users at home or work. On the other hand, if you prioritize a slick and frictionless typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, the KTT Orange linear switch is your best choice. With a medium-light bottom-out force of 53 grams, these switches feature a bouncy and lively feel with excellent factory lubing for smooth key travel. Ultimately, the decision between the Ayara and Orange switches boils down to whether you prefer a clacky sound and hearty typing experience or a frictionless and bouncy feel with a low-pitched sound. It's important to consider your personal preferences and typing style when making the final choice.
Mentioned in this article
