SP-Star Ayara vs. KTT Peach
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the KTT Peach switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that often come up for comparison are the SP-Star Ayara and the KTT Peach, both of which are linear switches. The Ayara switch is known for its medium weight, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a robust typing experience. Typing on these switches provides a soft bottom-out feel and produces a delightful clacky sound. On the other hand, the Peach switch offers multiple desirable characteristics of a linear switch. With a smooth and syrupy typing experience, this switch provides a satisfying thocky sound profile. While the Ayara switch is categorized as neutral, high-pitched, and polished, the Peach switch falls under the categories of low-pitched, neutral, and mild. Both switches have their own unique advantages, but let's dive deeper beyond these generalities to help you decide which switch would be best suited for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
53g
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
13mm progressive spring
Housing materials
The SP-Star Ayara and the KTT Peach have different materials used for their top housings. The Ayara utilizes a nylon top housing, which is known for its ability to absorb sound and create a deeper, fuller sound profile. This softer plastic material dampens the sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Peach features a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This stiffer plastic material enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound. Aesthetically, the polycarbonate top housing is translucent, making it ideal for showcasing RGB lighting effects.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Ayara and the Peach use nylon. Nylon is a traditional switch housing material that is cherished for its ability to generate a deep and rich sound profile. As a relatively softer plastic, nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, contributing to a duller and rounder sound.
When it comes to the overall typing experience, the choice of top and bottom housing materials plays a significant role. If a switch has different materials for the top and bottom housings, the qualities of each material will be divided. Pressing down on a switch will primarily showcase the characteristics of the bottom housing, influencing the sound and feel upon bottoming out. Conversely, releasing a key will be influenced by the properties of the top housing, affecting the sound during key retraction.
In summary, the Ayara and the Peach have contrasting housing materials for their top housings. While the Ayara relies on nylon to create a deeper, fuller and duller sound, the Peach employs polycarbonate to deliver a sharper, crisper, and more resonant sound. However, both switches share a common nylon material for their bottom housings, resulting in a similar deep and full sound profile. The choice of top and bottom housing materials in a switch can significantly impact the overall sound and feel during typing.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the KTT Peach linear switch, there are notable differences in both the actuation force and bottom out force. The Ayara switch has an actuation force that is unknown, making it difficult to directly compare to the Peach switch. However, the Ayara does have a bottom out force of 62 grams, which falls into the medium range. On the other hand, the Peach switch has an actuation force of 45 grams, indicating a lighter touch needed to trigger a keystroke. Additionally, the Peach switch has a bottom out force of 53 grams, which is slightly lighter than the Ayara.
Considering the impact of weight on typing experience, those who prefer a lighter touch may be drawn to the Peach switch. With an actuation force of 45 grams, it allows for a more effortless keystroke, which can be beneficial for prolonged typing sessions or gaming marathons. However, for individuals who desire a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Ayara switch, with its heavier bottom out force of 62 grams, might be a preferred choice.
Ultimately, for those seeking similar results, it is essential to select a switch that aligns with their desired typing experience. If a lighter touch is preferred, the Peach switch would be more suitable, while the Ayara switch offers a heavier and more tactile typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch is an important factor to consider when choosing a keyboard. In the case of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the KTT Peach linear switch, both of them have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of distance traveled. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, you can expect similar results from both switches.
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 KTT Peach comes in at $2.91 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 clacky sound profile that is described as neutral. This means that it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for most intents and purposes. It produces a soft bottom-out feel when typing, providing a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Peach linear switch has a deep, thocky sound profile that is described as low-pitched. This means it features a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Both switches offer different sound profiles, so the preference will depend on the individual's preference for a clacky or thocky sound.
In terms of feel, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch is described as polished, resulting in a sleek typing experience. This indicates that it has a smooth and refined finish, reducing friction and resulting in smooth key travel. On the other hand, the KTT Peach linear switch is described as mild. This means it offers a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. It stands in a safe, middle-ground zone in terms of feel. Both switches provide a different typing experience, with the Ayara offering a polished and refined feel and the Peach offering a mild and approachable feel.
Based on the available information, the Ayara and Peach switches offer distinct qualities in sound and feel. The Ayara has a clacky sound profile and a polished feel, while the Peach has a thocky sound profile and a mild feel. The Ayara is recommended for those who prefer a hearty typing experience, while the Peach is known for its syrupy smooth typing experience. It is important to note that the overall sound and feel of the switches can also be influenced by other factors, such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps. Therefore, while the provided descriptions give an understanding of the subjective qualities of each switch, individual preferences may vary.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a more hearty typing experience with a soft bottom-out feel and a clacky sound profile, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch would be a great choice for you. With a bottom out force of 62 grams, it offers a medium level of heftness that many enthusiasts appreciate. On the other hand, if you prefer a syrupy smooth typing experience with a deep, thocky sound profile, the KTT Peach linear switch would be a suitable option. With a bottom out force of 53 grams, it provides a medium-light level of resistance.
In terms of sound, the Ayara offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for most intents and purposes. However, if you prefer a sharper and crisper sound, you may want to consider a higher-pitched switch. On the other hand, the Peach switch has a low-pitched sound profile, which tends to be more bass-heavy and mellow compared to higher-pitched switches.
When it comes to feel, the Ayara switch is polished, resulting in a sleek and smooth typing experience. The reduced friction and smooth key travel provided by this switch make it a popular choice for those seeking a refined feel. Conversely, the Peach switch offers a mild typing experience, which is gentle and approachable for most users. Its qualities stand in a safe, middle-ground zone, making it a reliable option.
Ultimately, the choice between the Ayara and Peach switches will depend on your personal preferences. Consider factors such as the desired typing experience, sound profile, and feel to make the best decision for your needs and preferences.
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