SP-Star Ayara vs. Outemu Lotus
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the Outemu Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the SP-Star Ayara and the Outemu Lotus mechanical keyboard switches, both of which are linear switches, some key differences emerge. The Ayara switch is renowned for its medium heftiness, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a robust typing experience. Typing on the Ayara switch offers a soft bottom-out feel and produces a satisfyingly clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Lotus switch lacks specific standout features. While the Ayara switch is categorized as 'Neutral', 'High-pitched', and 'Polished', the Lotus switch does not fall into any particular categories. Depending on your preferences, the Ayara switch may be ideal for those seeking a distinctive typing experience, while the Lotus switch offers a more neutral option. 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
35g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Two-stage
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the Outemu Lotus are both made of nylon, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The relatively softer plastic properties of nylon allow it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This characteristic is evident in both switches, showcasing the similar sound profiles that nylon housing can provide.
However, while both the Ayara and the Lotus feature nylon top and bottom housings, the distribution of these housing materials may differ between the two switches. The bottom housing of a switch is said to have more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Depending on how the top and bottom housings are utilized in each switch, the overall typing experience and sound profile may vary slightly between the Ayara and the Lotus.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the Outemu Lotus share the common characteristic of being made of nylon, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. While the distribution of top and bottom housings may impact the typing experience differently between the two switches, both keyboards are likely to offer a similar sound profile due to the shared nylon housing material. Overall, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference and how the individual user perceives the slight variations in sound and feel.
Weight
In comparing the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch, the Ayara has an actuation force of None grams, while the Lotus requires 35 grams to actuate. The bottom out force for the Ayara is 62 grams, which is heavier than the Lotus's 50 grams. This means that the Ayara provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force, while the Lotus offers a lighter touch for longer typing sessions. Those who prefer a lighter weight for extended typing may lean towards the Lotus, while those who enjoy a stronger push feel may opt for the Ayara. Both switches cater to different preferences, so choosing between them depends on individual typing preferences.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch is 4 mm, while the Outemu Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Lotus has a shorter travel distance compared to the Ayara. The Ayara's 4 mm travel distance is more traditional and provides a deeper keypress feel, which may be preferred by those who want a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Lotus's shorter 3.3 mm travel distance is ideal for those seeking quicker response times, such as gamers. Both switches offer different advantages based on personal preference, with the Ayara being longer and the Lotus being shorter in travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the individual's typing or gaming style.
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 Lotus 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 beginners or advanced typists, for use at home or work. On the other hand, the Outemu Lotus linear switch's sound profile is unknown, but it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors like the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Ayara switch is known for its polished feel, providing a smooth and refined typing experience. This is achieved through high-quality materials or factory lubing, resulting in reduced friction and seamless key travel. As for the Lotus switch, information regarding its feel is currently unavailable.
In conclusion, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch impresses with its clacky sound profile and hearty typing experience, making it a great choice for those seeking a neutral sound and polished feel. While information about the Outemu Lotus linear switch is limited, it is important to consider all available information and conduct further research to make an informed decision. Overall, both switches may provide similar results in terms of sound and feel, depending on individual preferences and the overall keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Outemu Lotus linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a hearty typing experience with a soft bottom-out feel and clacky sound profile, then the Ayara switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and are looking for a switch with a polished finish that offers reduced friction and smooth key travel, then the Lotus switch may be more suitable for your needs. Consider the sound profile and feel that align with your typing style and preferences to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches have their unique features that cater to different typing preferences, so choose wisely based on what matters most to you.
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