SP-Star Ayara vs. Outemu Purple
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the Outemu Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the SP-Star Ayara linear switch to the Outemu Purple tactile switch, it's important to note some key differences. The Ayara is favored for its medium weight and hearty typing experience, making it ideal for those who enjoy a solid feel while typing. With a soft bottom-out feel and clacky sound profile, the Ayara switch is categorized as 'Neutral', 'High-pitched', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Outemu Purple switch lacks specific standout characteristics but is known for its tactile feedback. If you prefer a switch that provides tactile feedback without being too loud, the Purple may be a better 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
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Two-stage
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the Outemu Purple switches offer contrasting sound profiles due to the differences in their materials. The Ayara's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Purple's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound, while the stiffer polycarbonate material allows for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of the keyboard.
Despite their differences in top housing material, both the Ayara and the Purple switches share a nylon bottom housing. This common material choice leads to a consistent deep and full sound profile for both switches. The softer nature of nylon in the bottom housing contributes to a similar typing experience, creating a dull and round sound when compared to switches with harder plastic bottom housings. This consistency in housing material ensures that users will have a familiar typing experience regardless of which switch they choose.
When considering the impact of housing materials on the overall typing experience, it is important to note that the bottom and top housings play distinct roles. The qualities of the bottom housing are more prominent during typing, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. On the other hand, the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This distinction highlights how the choice of housing material can affect different aspects of the typing experience, contributing to the overall feel and sound of the switch.
Weight
The SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch have different characteristics when it comes to actuation and bottom out forces. The Ayara has a bottom out force of 62 grams, making it a medium-weight switch, while its actuation force is not specified. On the other hand, the Purple has an actuation force of 50 grams, indicating a lighter touch required to register a keystroke, but the bottom out force is unknown. Those who prefer a light touch for extended typing or gaming sessions may prefer the Outemu Purple switch, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may opt for the SP-Star Ayara switch. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing their travel distances, users can expect a consistent feel in terms of key travel regardless of which switch they choose. This means that whether you opt for the Ayara or the Purple switch, you'll experience a similar level of key travel when typing or gaming. This similarity in travel distance highlights the importance of personal preference and tactile feedback when selecting a switch for your keyboard. Ultimately, the decision may come down to other factors such as actuation force or sound.
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 Purple 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 that is suitable for most users, whether beginners or advanced. It provides a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile that is not overly rich or bassy. On the other hand, the Outemu Purple tactile switch does not have any specific sound description provided. Keep in mind that the actual sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Ayara switch is known for its polished feel, characterized by a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience. The materials used and factory lubing contribute to reduced friction and smooth key travel when typing. Unfortunately, there is no specific feel description provided for the Outemu Purple switch.
Overall, if you are looking for a switch with a moderate sound profile and a polished feel, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch would be a great choice. However, if you prefer a tactile switch, the Outemu Purple may also provide a satisfactory typing experience despite the lack of specific sound and feel descriptions. Ultimately, both switches offer different qualities that cater to personal preferences, so trying out both to see which one suits your typing style best would be the ideal way to determine the right fit for you.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Outemu Purple tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a medium heftness with a soft bottom-out feel and clacky sound profile, the Ayara linear switch may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with no specified bottom out force and are looking for a different typing experience, the Outemu Purple tactile switch could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound.
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