SP-Star Ayara vs. Outemu Dustproof Brown
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the Outemu Dustproof Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the SP-Star Ayara linear switch to the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, it is clear that each offers unique features catered to different preferences. The Ayara is favored for its medium heftiness, making it ideal for those who enjoy a robust typing experience. With a soft bottom-out feel and a satisfyingly clacky sound profile, it is a popular choice for typists seeking a tactile response. On the other hand, the Dustproof Brown switch lacks specific standout features but is known for its reliability and durability. This switch is often chosen for its dustproof design, ensuring longevity and consistent performance. 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
65g
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
Partial box
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Two-stage
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The SP-Star Ayara and the Outemu Dustproof Brown both feature nylon top housings, which result in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Dustproof Brown's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile because of its stiffer plastic composition. This distinction in material leads to a different overall typing experience for users of each switch, with the Ayara offering a rounder sound and the Dustproof Brown providing a clearer and more resonant sound. However, both switches excel in their ability to manipulate sound and create a satisfying typing experience, albeit with different tonal qualities.
While the Ayara and Dustproof Brown share a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to the deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, their top housings set them apart. The difference in top housing material leads to distinct sound characteristics when pressing and releasing keys on each switch. The Ayara's nylon top housing creates a duller and rounder sound upon key release, while the Dustproof Brown's polycarbonate top housing produces a crisper and more resonant sound. These nuances in sound profile highlight the importance of both the top and bottom housing materials in determining the overall typing experience of a switch.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches plays a crucial role in shaping the sound and feel of the typing experience. The Ayara's nylon top and bottom housings create a consistent deep and full sound profile throughout key presses. In comparison, the Dustproof Brown's combination of polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housings results in a mix of sharp and clear sound qualities when pressing and releasing keys. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, showcasing how variations in housing materials can impact the overall typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch both have medium actuation forces, with the Ayara having None grams and the Dustproof Brown having 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Ayara is lighter at 62 grams, while the Dustproof Brown is slightly heavier at 65 grams. This means that the Dustproof Brown will provide a more substantial typing experience due to the heavier bottom out force, while the Ayara may be preferred by those who like a lighter keystroke. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on the actuation and bottom out forces, appealing to different preferences and typing styles.
Travel distance
Both the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown 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 using either of these switches, you will feel the same amount of distance traveled from top to bottom. Despite having the same travel distance, the Ayara is a linear switch, providing a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile feedback, while the Dustproof Brown is a tactile switch, offering a subtle bump in the keystroke to provide feedback to the user. Therefore, the main difference between the two lies in the type of keystroke experience they provide rather than the distance traveled.
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 Dustproof Brown 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 Ayara linear switch offers a neutral sound profile with a clacky sound when pressed, making it suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch's sound profile is unknown, so it is difficult to determine its noise characteristics. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Ayara linear switch provides a polished typing experience with smooth key travel and reduced friction, resulting in a refined and sleek feel. Unfortunately, the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch is unknown, making it challenging to compare to the polished feel of the Ayara switch.
Considering the available information, the Ayara linear switch seems to offer a satisfying typing experience with its clacky sound and polished feel. However, due to the lack of information on the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch's sound and feel, it is challenging to make a direct comparison. In general, both switches may provide a pleasant typing experience, but without specific details on the Outemu switch, it is difficult to determine how it truly measures up against the Ayara switch. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches may come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Brown tactile switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a hearty typing experience with a medium bottom out force and a soft bottom-out feel, along with a clacky sound profile, the Ayara switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and are looking for a switch with a polished finish for a smooth and refined typing experience, the Dustproof Brown switch may be the better option for you. Ultimately, your choice should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall typing experience you are looking for.
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