SP-Star Ayara vs. Everglide Oreo
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the Everglide Oreo switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that offer distinct typing experiences are the SP-Star Ayara and the Everglide Oreo. The Ayara switches are known for their medium heftiness, catering to those who enjoy a robust typing sensation. With a soft bottom-out feel and a perfectly clacky sound profile, these switches provide a delightful typing experience. On the other hand, the Oreo switches from Everglide indulge your fingertips in a delectable treat with a crisp and responsive tactile bump at the top. The switches offer a medium light tactility that strikes the perfect balance between a satisfying keystroke and comfortable typing experience. While typing on the Oreos, you'll experience a subtle, mellow sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Two-stage
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the SP-Star Ayara and the Everglide Oreo, specifically the top housing, differ significantly. The Ayara features a nylon top housing, known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller but rounder sound. In contrast, the Oreo utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that provides a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, the Oreo's polycarbonate top housing is ideal for users planning to incorporate RGB lighting due to its translucency.
Similarly, the bottom housing of the Ayara and the Oreo varies as well. The Ayara's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In comparison, the Oreo's polycarbonate bottom housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, the Oreo's polycarbonate bottom housing benefits users seeking a visually appealing switch, as its translucency is particularly advantageous for showcasing RGB lighting.
It is important to note that when a switch has different top and bottom housings, the qualities of each housing material are divided between the top and bottom of the switch. Pressing down on a switch will primarily exhibit the qualities of the bottom housing, impacting the sound and feel when bottoming out. Conversely, the top housing will have a greater influence on the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, while the Ayara and the Oreo have contrasting housing materials, it is essential to understand how these materials influence different aspects of the typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Everglide Oreo tactile switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. In terms of actuation force, the Ayara's specific gram measurement is unavailable, while the Oreo requires 45 grams of force to initiate a keystroke. This makes the Oreo slightly lighter in terms of actuation force. However, when considering the bottom out force, the Ayara requires 62 grams while the Oreo requires 55 grams, making the Ayara slightly heavier in this aspect.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Oreo may be the more suitable option as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke. This can be beneficial for individuals who type for extended periods of time, such as during work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Ayara due to its slightly higher bottom out force. This can provide a greater sense of satisfaction and feedback while typing.
Overall, if one wishes to achieve similar results in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, both switches fall within the medium range. However, it is important to note that the Oreo offers a slightly lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Ayara, making it more suitable for individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience. Conversely, the Ayara offers a slightly heavier bottom out force, which may appeal to those who prefer a more solid and substantial typing feel.
Travel distance
Both the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Everglide Oreo tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This ensures consistency and comfort in typing or gaming experiences. Whether you choose the Ayara or the Oreo switch, you can expect similar results in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom.
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 Everglide Oreo has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Oreo for $4.19.
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 Ayara linear switch provides a perfectly clacky sound profile. This means that when you press the keys, you will experience a sharp and crisp sound. This can be appealing for those who enjoy a more lively and distinctive typing sound. On the other hand, the Oreo tactile switch offers a subtle and mellow sound profile. This means that the sound produced when typing on these switches is more subdued and gentle. It does not have the same level of sharpness and crispness as the Ayara switch. However, it is important to note that the sound of the switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Ayara linear switch is described as polished. This means that it has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. The reduced friction and smooth key travel provided by the polished switch contribute to a pleasant and comfortable feeling while typing. On the other hand, the Oreo tactile switch is described as accented and stepped. The accented feature refers to the moderate amount of tactility that these switches offer. It provides a noticeable bump when pressing the keys, but it is not overwhelming or subtle. The stepped feature indicates that these switches have a two-stage feeling, with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. This can provide a more controlled and precise typing experience.
Taking all the available information into account, if you prefer a hearty typing experience with a clacky sound profile, the Ayara linear switch would be a suitable choice for you. Its medium heftness and polished feel contribute to a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, if you enjoy a tactile bump at the top of your keystrokes and a cushioned sensation when bottoming out, the Oreo tactile switch would be a good option. It offers a medium light tactility and a mellower sound profile compared to the Ayara switch. Both switches provide their own unique qualities and can enhance your typing experience in different ways.
Conclusion
In closing, if you prefer a typing experience that is hearty and clacky, we recommend the SP-Star Ayara linear switch. With a bottom out force of 62 grams, it provides a medium heftness that is satisfying for those who enjoy a bit of resistance. These switches offer a soft bottom-out feel and a neutral sound profile, suitable for both beginners and advanced users. On the other hand, if you crave a more delectable treat for your fingertips, the Everglide Oreo tactile switch is the way to go. With a bottom out force of 55 grams, it falls into the medium-light category, striking the perfect balance between a satisfying keystroke and comfortable typing experience. These switches feature a crisp and responsive tactile bump at the top, followed by a delightfully cushioned sensation when bottoming out. Additionally, the Oreo switches offer an accented tactility and a subtle, mellow sound profile. Ultimately, your choice between the Ayara and Oreo switches will depend on your preference for typing feel and sound, but both options provide high-quality experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. So, go ahead and indulge in the switch that suits your taste!
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