SP-Star Ayara vs. Outemu Blue Jade
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the Outemu Blue Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, it becomes evident that each offers a unique typing experience. The Ayara switch stands out for its medium heftiness, making it ideal for those who enjoy a substantial typing feel. With a soft bottom-out feel and a satisfying clacky sound profile, the Ayara switch is categorized as ['Neutral', 'High-pitched', 'Polished']. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade switch doesn't have a specific standout feature mentioned, but it falls under a different category. While the Ayara switch might be preferred for a hearty typing experience, the Blue Jade switch could suit those who enjoy a different type of tactile feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 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
Nylon
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 Blue Jade are both made of nylon, a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. With both switches having nylon top and bottom housings, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
However, while both switches share the same nylon housing material, the design and construction of the housing may vary between the Ayara and the Blue Jade. This can result in subtle differences in sound and feel when typing on the switches. The bottom housing of a switch tends to have more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. These differences in housing design may lead to variations in typing experience between the two switches.
Overall, despite having the same nylon housing material, the SP-Star Ayara and the Outemu Blue Jade may offer slightly different typing experiences due to the nuances in housing design. Users who prefer a deeper and fuller sound profile may appreciate the qualities of nylon housing in both switches, while also noting any subtle differences in sound and feel that may arise from the specific design of each switch's housing. Ultimately, both switches are likely to provide a satisfying typing experience for those who enjoy the characteristics of nylon housing.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, it is clear that they have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Ayara has an actuation force of None grams, meaning the force required to trigger a keystroke is unknown, while the Blue Jade has an actuation force of 50 grams. On the other hand, the Ayara has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is lighter than the Blue Jade's bottom out force of 65 grams. This means that the Blue Jade switch provides a slightly heavier typing experience compared to the Ayara. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Ayara for extended typing sessions, while others may enjoy the more substantial feel of the Blue Jade switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, it is evident that they both have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that regardless of which switch you choose, you can expect a consistent travel distance when pressing down on the keys. Both switches offer a standard key press experience in terms of travel distance, ensuring that users will get similar results in terms of tactile feedback and typing comfort. Therefore, the travel distance of the SP-Star Ayara and Outemu Blue Jade switches are equal, providing a reliable typing experience for users who prefer either linear or clicky switches.
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 Blue Jade 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
When it comes to sound, the Ayara linear switch offers a neutral sound profile that is neither too loud nor too quiet. It provides a satisfying clacky sound when typing, making it suitable for various environments and preferences. In contrast, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch's sound profile remains unknown, so it is difficult to draw a direct comparison. However, based on the information provided, if you enjoy a high-pitched and crisp sound, the Ayara may be more appealing in this aspect.
Moving on to feel, the Ayara switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. This indicates that when typing on Ayara switches, users can expect a seamless and comfortable feel with each keystroke. Unfortunately, the feel quality of the Outemu Blue Jade switches is not mentioned, making it challenging to contrast the two switches directly in this aspect. However, if you appreciate a polished and smooth typing experience, the Ayara switches may be more suitable for you.
In conclusion, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch is recommended for those who enjoy a hearty typing experience, with a soft bottom-out feel and a clacky sound profile that is neither too loud nor too quiet. It offers a polished feel, providing users with a smooth and refined typing experience. On the other hand, information regarding the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch is lacking, making it difficult to make a direct comparison. If you are looking for a switch with a neutral sound profile and a polished feel, the Ayara switch would be a suitable choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a medium typing experience with a soft bottom-out feel and clacky sound profile, the SP-Star Ayara linear switches are an excellent choice. They are best suited for those who enjoy a hearty typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a clicky sound profile, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switches may be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preference in terms of typing experience and sound profile. Whichever switch you choose, you can rest assured that both the Ayara and Blue Jade switches will provide a quality mechanical keyboard experience.
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