SP-Star Ayara vs. Outemu Cream Yellow
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the Outemu Cream Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, one can immediately note their differences. The Ayara is lauded for its medium heftiness, making it a great choice for those seeking a robust typing experience. With a soft bottom-out feel and a satisfying clacky sound profile, typing on the Ayara can be quite enjoyable. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow lacks specific standout features but is categorized as a tactile switch. Those who prefer a smoother typing experience may lean towards the Cream Yellow. 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
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Both the SP-Star Ayara and the Outemu Cream Yellow switches utilize nylon as the material for their top and bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound that is preferred by many keyboard enthusiasts. With both switches using the same material for their housing, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
While the housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and Outemu Cream Yellow switches are the same, the impact of the top and bottom housing differs in how they affect the typing experience. The bottom housing of a switch plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is fully pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. This differentiation allows for a more nuanced typing experience where users can feel the characteristics of each housing material at different points during typing. Despite these differences, the overall typing experience with both switches will still be consistent due to the shared nylon housing material.
In terms of design and construction, the nylon housing of both the SP-Star Ayara and the Outemu Cream Yellow switches provides a sturdy base for the keycaps and internal components. This ensures durability and longevity, making them reliable options for daily use. Additionally, the use of nylon helps in dampening sound, resulting in a quieter typing experience that is appreciated by users in shared spaces or those who prefer a more subdued sound profile. Overall, while there may be subtle differences in the impact of the housing materials on typing, both switches offer a high-quality construction that contributes to a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
The SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch differ slightly in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Ayara has an unknown actuation force but a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is medium in terms of heaviness. In contrast, the Cream Yellow has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, also falling into the medium range. While the Ayara is lighter in terms of bottom out force compared to the Cream Yellow, both switches provide a comfortable typing experience for those who prefer a medium actuation force. The Ayara's actuation force being unknown means that it may be lighter than the Cream Yellow, which could appeal to users who prefer a softer touch when typing for longer periods of time. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force feedback.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch is 4 mm, while the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Cream Yellow has a shorter travel distance compared to the Ayara. The Ayara falls into the more traditional 4.0 mm range, offering a deeper key press, while the Cream Yellow provides a shallower 3.3 mm travel distance. Gamers looking for a faster response time may prefer the Cream Yellow with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the Ayara with its longer travel distance. Both switches offer unique experiences based on individual preferences, but the Cream Yellow will provide a slightly quicker key press overall.
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 Cream Yellow 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 SP-Star Ayara linear switch is known for its neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various typing environments. The Cream Yellow tactile switch, on the other hand, does not have a specific sound description available. Both switches will provide different sound profiles based on other factors such as keycaps and keyboard construction.
Moving on to feel, the Ayara switch is recognized for its polished feel, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction. In contrast, there is no specific feel description available for the Cream Yellow tactile switch. If you are looking for a smoother key travel and refined typing experience, the Ayara switch may be the preferred choice.
Taking into consideration the available information, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch seems to offer a clacky sound profile and a polished feel, suitable for those looking for a moderate typing experience with smooth key travel. While the specific sound and feel qualities of the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch are unknown, it is important to consider other factors such as personal preference and typing environment when choosing between the two switches. Ultimately, both switches may provide similar results in terms of sound and feel based on individual preferences and setup.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch, you should choose the Ayara if you prefer a medium heftness and a hearty typing experience with a soft bottom-out feel and clacky sound profile. The Ayara is also suitable for a variety of intents and purposes due to its neutral sound profile and polished finish, providing a smooth and refined typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a slightly lighter bottom out force and do not mind a lack of specific sound and feel descriptions, the Cream Yellow may be the right choice for you. Ultimately, consider your preferences for typing experience, sound profile, and overall feel when making your decision between these two mechanical keyboard switches.
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