SP-Star Ayara vs. Outemu Phoenix
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the Outemu Phoenix switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the SP-Star Ayara and the Outemu Phoenix. The Ayara is a linear switch specifically designed for those seeking a hearty typing experience. It offers a medium weight and a soft bottom-out feel, accompanied by a perfectly clacky sound profile. Categorized as 'Neutral', 'High-pitched', and 'Polished', the Ayara switch delivers a satisfying mix of comfort and audio feedback. On the other hand, the Phoenix is a clicky switch that stands out for its unique under-skirt click mechanism. With a crystalline and sparkling type feel and sound profile, it provides a distinct tactile and auditory experience. Categorized as 'Crunchy' and 'Polished', the Phoenix switch is certain to catch attention. Both switches have their own specific advantages and qualities that make them appealing, so let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities to help you decide on the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Two-stage
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the Outemu Phoenix provide distinct differences in sound profiles and aesthetics. The Ayara features nylon top and bottom housings, which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound when typing on the switch. The softer nature of nylon allows for greater sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Phoenix utilizes polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housings, offering a sharper and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances clarity and resonance, creating a higher-pitched sound. Additionally, the clear polycarbonate housing of the Phoenix is ideal for those intending to use RGB lighting, as it allows for greater transparency and illumination.
While the two switches differ in their housing materials, they both deliver satisfying typing experiences. Both nylon and polycarbonate contribute to a fuller sound when pressing down on the keys, making each keystroke more pronounced. However, the Ayara's use of nylon in the top housing provides a distinct sound when releasing a key, whereas the Phoenix's polycarbonate top housing delivers a different tonality upon key release. This showcases how the qualities of the housing materials are split between the top and bottom, influencing the sound and feel of the switch in different ways.
In terms of aesthetics, the clear polycarbonate housing of the Phoenix offers a sleek and modern appearance. Its translucency allows for the vibrant display of RGB lighting, creating an eye-catching visual effect. On the other hand, the Ayara's nylon housing presents a more traditional look. While it may not possess the same level of visual appeal as the Phoenix, the Ayara's housing material still offers a classic appeal that appeals to those who prefer a more understated design.
In conclusion, the choice between the SP-Star Ayara and the Outemu Phoenix ultimately boils down to personal preference. The nylon housing of the Ayara delivers a deeper and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate housing of the Phoenix offers a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, the clear polycarbonate housing of the Phoenix enhances aesthetics, particularly for those interested in utilizing RGB lighting. However, both switches provide satisfying typing experiences, showcasing the various ways in which housing materials can impact the overall sound profile and feel of a switch.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, their actuation forces and bottom out forces are both unavailable for measurement. Therefore, it is difficult to determine whether they are lighter or heavier in comparison to each other. However, it can be noted that both switches have a bottom out force of 62 grams, which falls within the medium range.
Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing between these switches. Some individuals may prefer a lighter actuation force, as it allows for longer typing periods without fatiguing the fingers. This lighter option would be well-suited for those who use their keyboard extensively for work or gaming. On the other hand, others may prefer a heavier actuation force as it provides a more substantial typing experience, giving a stronger push feel. These individuals would benefit from options with heavier forces.
In conclusion, although the specific actuation forces of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch are unavailable, their bottom out forces are the same, suggesting a similar typing experience in terms of force required. The final decision between the two switches will ultimately depend on an individual's preference for a lighter or heavier actuation force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, we can see that they have different distances. The Ayara has a travel distance of 4 mm, which falls in the more traditional range. On the other hand, the Phoenix has a shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. This shorter distance may be preferred by gamers who prioritize faster response times. However, for those who prefer a more substantial feel, the Ayara's longer travel distance may be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for either a shorter or longer travel distance.
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 Phoenix comes in at $4.15 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. This means that it has a moderate actuation force requirement and produces a moderate sound when pressed. It is suitable for a wide range of users, whether beginners or advanced, and can be used in both home and work environments. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch is known for its crunchy sound profile. It produces a sharp and crisp sound, similar to stepping on piles of autumn leaves. If you prefer a more rich and bassy sound profile, the higher-pitched Ayara switch may be more suitable for you. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, both the Ayara linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch share the same description of being polished switches. This means that they have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. The materials used and/or factory lubing contribute to reduced friction and smooth key travel with both switches. Therefore, users can expect a similar feel when typing on both the Ayara and Phoenix switches.
In conclusion, the Ayara linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch offer different sound profiles but share a similar polished feel. The Ayara provides a neutral sound with a soft bottom-out feel, suitable for those who prefer a hearty typing experience. On the other hand, the Phoenix features a unique under-skirt click mechanism, resulting in a crystalline and sparkling sound and feel. If you are looking for a switch with a specific sound preference, the Ayara and Phoenix switches offer contrasting options. However, if you prioritize the feel of the switch, both switches provide a polished experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a hearty typing experience with a soft bottom-out feel and a perfectly clacky sound profile, then the SP-Star Ayara linear switch is the one for you. With its medium bottom out force of 62 grams, it offers a moderate actuation force requirement suitable for most intents and purposes. Moreover, the Ayara switch has a polished finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you are looking for a unique clicky switch with a crystalline and sparkling type feel and sound profile, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch is the one to go for. It features an under-skirt click mechanism that produces a crunchy sound, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. With the same medium bottom out force of 62 grams, the Phoenix switch offers a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users.
Both switches have a polished finish, providing a smooth and refined typing experience. Whether you prefer the neutral sound profile of the Ayara or the crunchy sound profile of the Phoenix will depend on your personal preference. Ultimately, it's important to choose a switch that suits your typing style and the sound profile that brings you the most satisfaction.
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