SP-Star Ayara vs. KTT Pine
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the KTT Pine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the SP-Star Ayara and the KTT Pine offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Ayara is renowned for its medium heftiness, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a satisfying typing experience. With a soft bottom-out feel and a perfectly clacky sound profile, these switches deliver a hearty and engaging tactile feedback. On the other hand, the KTT Pine Linear Switches boast a translucent, forest green design and a buttery smooth feel. These switches are specifically engineered to provide effortless typing, thanks to their polished, factory-lubed finish that minimizes friction for a silky key travel experience. While the Ayara is characterized as neutral, high-pitched, and polished, the Pine falls under the categories of bassy, buttery, creamy, and low-pitched. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so that you can make the best switch choice for your particular needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
15.5mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the KTT Pine differ significantly. The Ayara features a nylon top housing, while the Pine utilizes a polycarbonate top housing. The Ayara's nylon top housing, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. On the other hand, the Pine's polycarbonate top housing, being a stiffer plastic, creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the polycarbonate top housing of the Pine is particularly advantageous if you plan to use RGB lighting, as its translucency enhances the visual effects.
Similarly, the bottom housings of the Ayara and the Pine also vary. The Ayara's nylon bottom housing, like its top housing, contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its ability to absorb sound. In contrast, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Pine results in a more clear and resonant sound profile because of its relatively stiffer nature. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Pine is also visually appealing, especially when paired with RGB lighting, due to its translucency.
When the top and bottom housings of a switch differ, the qualities brought by each housing material are distributed between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing predominantly affects the sound and feel of key presses. Meanwhile, the top housing primarily influences the sound produced when letting go of a key. Therefore, with the Ayara and the Pine, the choice of housing materials for both the top and bottom has a significant impact on the overall typing experience, sound, and aesthetic options.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch, there are a few key similarities and differences to note. In terms of weight, the Ayara's actuation force is listed as unavailable grams, while the Pine has an actuation force of 45 grams. Both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the Ayara at 62 grams and the Pine at 58 grams.
The actuation force refers to the force required to trigger a keystroke. While the actual grams for the Ayara are not specified, it is safe to assume that it falls within a similar range as the Pine's 45 grams. This means that in terms of actuation force, both switches provide a relatively light and responsive typing experience.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Ayara is slightly heavier at 62 grams compared to the Pine's 58 grams. This means that for individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Ayara may be a better choice. However, it's important to note that the difference between the two switches in terms of bottom out force is relatively minimal, so the overall typing experience may still be similar for both.
In summary, while the actuation force of the Ayara is unavailable, it can be presumed to be within a similar range as the Pine's 45 grams, providing a light and responsive typing experience. The Ayara has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 62 grams compared to the Pine's 58 grams, making it a better choice for those seeking a stronger push feel. However, the overall difference between the two switches in terms of bottom out force is minimal, resulting in a relatively similar typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch is an important factor to consider when choosing a keyboard. The SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the KTT Pine linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, meaning they travel the same distance from the top to the bottom when pressed. This similarity ensures that users can expect a consistent and familiar feel when typing on keyboards equipped with either of these switches. Whether it is the Ayara or the Pine, the travel distance of 4 mm guarantees a satisfying tactile experience for keyboard enthusiasts.
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 Pine has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $4.15.
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 has a neutral sound profile, offering a moderate and crisp sound when pressed. This makes it suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work. On the other hand, the KTT Pine linear switch has a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deeper and richer tone during key presses. If you prefer a more bass-heavy and mellow sound, the Pine switch might be the better option for you. 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.
When it comes to feel, the Ayara switch has a polished finish, resulting in a sleek and refined typing experience. This polished surface, along with potential factory lubing, reduces friction and enables smooth key travel. On the other hand, the KTT Pine switch offers a buttery and creamy typing experience. This implies a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation, similar to gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. The Pine switch provides a seamless and uniform typing experience. The Ayara and Pine switches differ in their feel, with the Ayara being more polished and the Pine being more buttery and creamy.
Considering the available information, the Ayara switch is best known for its medium heftiness, soft bottom-out feel, and clacky sound profile. It is recommended for those who prefer a hearty typing experience. On the other hand, the KTT Pine switch stands out with its translucent, forest green appearance, medium-heavy weight, and smooth typing experience. With a polished and factory-lubed finish, it offers reduced friction and effortless key travel.
If you are someone who enjoys a hearty typing experience and a clacky sound, the Ayara switch would be a suitable choice for you. However, if you prefer a smoother and more buttery feel while typing, along with a deeper and richer sound, the KTT Pine switch would be a great option. Both switches excel in their own subjective qualities and can provide a satisfying typing experience based on your preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a hearty typing experience with a soft bottom-out feel and a clacky sound profile, we recommend the SP-Star Ayara linear switch. With its medium bottom-out force of 62 grams, it offers a satisfying typing experience. Additionally, the Ayara switch has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various environments. Its polished finish ensures smooth and refined typing, reducing friction and allowing for smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a buttery smooth typing experience, the KTT Pine linear switch is a great option. With a bottom-out force of 58 grams, it provides effortless typing and minimizes friction due to its polished and factory-lubed finish. The Pine switch offers a bassy sound profile, producing a deeper and richer sound during key presses.
Ultimately, your choice between the SP-Star Ayara and KTT Pine linear switches will depend on your personal preferences. If you prioritize a hearty typing experience with a clacky sound profile, the Ayara switch is a suitable option. On the other hand, if you prefer a buttery smooth typing sensation with a bassy sound profile, the Pine switch would be a better fit. Consider these factors when making your decision and select the switch that aligns with your typing preferences.
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