SP-Star Ayara vs. Outemu Black
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the Outemu Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the SP-Star Ayara linear switch to the Outemu Black linear switch, there are a few key differences to consider. The Ayara switch is known for its medium heftiness, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. With a soft bottom-out feel and a satisfying clacky sound profile, the Ayara switch falls into the categories of 'Neutral', 'High-pitched', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Outemu Black switch does not have any specific standout features mentioned. This may appeal to users looking for a straightforward and no-frills typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision on which switch is right for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
65g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
82g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.50 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the Outemu Black switches offer contrasting sound profiles based on their composition. The Ayara's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a dull and rounder sound profile. In comparison, the Black's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, as polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that produces a clearer and resonant sound. The use of polycarbonate in the Black switch's top housing is also beneficial for enhancing RGB lighting effects due to its translucency.
Both the Ayara and Black switches feature nylon bottom housings, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile similar to their top housings. The softer plastic of the nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on these switches. Therefore, despite the differences in their top housings, the Ayara and Black switches offer a consistent sound profile due to their shared nylon bottom housing. This ensures that users can expect similar sound characteristics when typing on either switch, providing a familiar typing experience regardless of the top housing material.
The split nature of housing materials in switches, where top and bottom housings may be made of different materials, impacts the overall sound profile and typing experience of the switch. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when letting go of a key. This division of qualities between top and bottom housings allows for a more nuanced sound profile that combines the characteristics of both housing materials. As such, the choice of housing materials in switches plays a significant role in shaping the overall typing experience and sound output for users.
Weight
The SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Outemu Black linear switch have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Ayara has an actuation force of None grams, making it lighter compared to the Black switch which requires 65 grams to actuate. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Ayara requires 62 grams which is lighter than the 82 grams needed for the Black switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Ayara may be the better option as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. On the other hand, the Outemu Black switch provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Outemu Black linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that regardless of which switch you choose, you can expect a consistent key travel experience. The travel distance of a switch is important as it affects the overall feel and performance of a keyboard. In this case, both switches provide the same level of key travel, ensuring a familiar feel for users. Whether you prefer the SP-Star Ayara or the Outemu Black switch, you can be confident in their reliable performance and consistent 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 Outemu Black comes in at $3.10 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
In terms of sound, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for a wide range of users, whether they are beginners or advanced typists. It has a moderate actuation force requirement and produces a moderate sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Outemu Black linear switch's sound profile is unknown, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience. This results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, making it a popular choice for users looking for a sleek typing feel. On the contrary, the feel of the Outemu Black linear switch is not described, so it is unclear how it compares in terms of tactile feedback and overall typing experience.
In conclusion, while the SP-Star Ayara linear switch is known for its clacky sound profile and polished feel, the Outemu Black linear switch lacks specific descriptions in terms of sound and feel. Therefore, it is challenging to make a direct comparison between the two switches in these subjective qualities. However, based on the available information, it can be inferred that the Ayara switch may provide a more distinct and refined typing experience compared to the Outemu Black switch, but without more specific details on the latter, it is difficult to draw a definitive conclusion. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel in mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Outemu Black linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience and bottom out force. If you enjoy a medium actuation force and a soft bottom-out feel with a clacky sound profile, the Ayara switch is a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force, the Black switch may be more suitable for you. Keep in mind the sound and feel descriptions of each switch to further tailor your decision to your specific typing preferences. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you are looking to achieve.
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