SP-Star Ayara vs. Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the SP-Star Ayara and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean mechanical keyboard switches, it is important to note their differences. The Ayara switch is a linear switch that is best known for its medium heftiness, making it ideal for those who enjoy a hearty typing experience. With a soft bottom-out feel and a clacky sound profile, the Ayara switch is categorized as neutral, high-pitched, polished. On the other hand, the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch is also a linear switch but does not have any specific standout features noted. It is categorized as standard. When choosing between these two switches, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what qualities you value most in a switch. 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
1.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Two-stage
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The SP-Star Ayara and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean both feature nylon bottom housings, which result in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softness of the material and its ability to absorb sound effectively. This characteristic creates a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. On the other hand, the Dustproof Silent Ocean utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile thanks to the stiffness of the material. The polycarbonate top housing allows for a more clear and resonant sound profile, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency.
Although the Ayara and the Dustproof Silent Ocean have different top housing materials, they both share the use of nylon for their bottom housings. This results in a similar typing experience for both switches, with a deeper and fuller sound profile that is created by the absorption of sound by the softer nylon material. The difference in sound profiles comes from the top housing material, with the Ayara's nylon top housing providing a duller and rounder sound, while the Dustproof Silent Ocean's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper and crisper sound. This contrast showcases how different housing materials can impact the overall sound and feel of a switch.
Overall, the choice between the SP-Star Ayara and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean will come down to personal preference in sound profile. The Ayara's nylon top and bottom housing create a rounded and deeper sound, while the Dustproof Silent Ocean's polycarbonate top housing leads to a sharper and clearer sound. Both switches offer a unique typing experience and demonstrate how the choice of housing materials can significantly impact the overall sound profile and feel of a mechanical keyboard switch. Whether you prefer a softer, more absorbent sound or a crisper, more resonant sound, these switches showcase the importance of housing materials in determining the typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Ayara linear switch to the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, the actuation force and bottom out force vary slightly. The Ayara has a bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Dustproof Silent Ocean has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 65 grams. Both switches have a similar medium actuation force, with the Ayara having no specified grams and the Dustproof Silent Ocean having an actuation force of 45 grams. Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing a switch, as a lighter force may be preferred for extended typing or gaming sessions, while a heavier force may provide a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Ayara and Dustproof Silent Ocean switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, we can see that the Ayara has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Dustproof Silent Ocean has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Ayara has a longer travel distance than the Dustproof Silent Ocean, making it a better choice for those who prefer more depth when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the Dustproof Silent Ocean offers a slightly shallower travel distance, which may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance, with both options offering unique benefits for different users.
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 Silent Ocean 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 offers a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement. This makes it suitable for a wide range of users, whether they are beginners or advanced typists. Additionally, the Ayara switch has a high-pitched sound, producing a sharp and crisp noise when pressed. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch does not have any specific sound characteristics listed, so it is hard to compare directly. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycap materials used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience. This is due to the materials used and potentially factory lubrication, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the contrary, there is no specific information available about the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, making it difficult to provide a direct comparison in this aspect.
Overall, both the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Ayara switch provides a clacky sound profile and polished feel, the specific characteristics of the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch remain unknown. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Similar results may be achieved if the user is looking for a moderately weighted switch with a neutral sound profile, but for those seeking a specific sound or feel, further information may be needed to make a well-informed decision.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Silent Ocean linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a medium bottom out force, the Ayara with 62 grams may be the better choice for you. Additionally, if you enjoy a hearty typing experience with a soft bottom-out feel and clacky sound profile, the Ayara switches would be a great fit. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, the Dustproof Silent Ocean may suit you better. Keep in mind that the Dustproof Silent Ocean switch does not have as much detailed information regarding sound and feel compared to the Ayara, so make sure to consider this when making your decision. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal typing preferences and what features you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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