SP-Star Ayara vs. Kailh Plum
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the Kailh Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, enthusiasts know that the choice between linear and tactile switches can greatly impact the typing experience. Two popular options in the market are the SP-Star Ayara, a linear switch, and the Kailh Plum, a tactile switch. The Ayara switches are known for their medium heftiness, offering a satisfying typing experience for those who prefer a hearty feel. With a soft bottom-out feel and a clacky sound profile, the Ayara brings a unique combination of responsiveness and audial feedback. On the other hand, the Plum switches provide a different tactile experience. While they have a substantial weight to them, they display a more subtle tactile bump compared to other tactile switches. This unexpected characteristic sets the Plum switches apart, offering a tactile experience that is both unique and enjoyable. The sound profile of the Plum switches is neutral, ensuring a pleasant typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the most suitable switch for your personal preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the Kailh Plum switches differ, with the Ayara featuring a nylon top housing and the Plum utilizing a polycarbonate top housing. The Ayara's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Plum's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, produces a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches equipped with RGB lighting.
Moving to the bottom housing, both the Ayara and the Plum employ nylon material. Nylon is known for enhancing the depth and richness of the typing sound. Its softness allows for greater sound absorption compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. Hence, the bottom housing of both switches contributes to a similar sound quality, providing a deeper and fuller typing experience.
When the top and bottom housings of a switch differ, as is the case with the Ayara and Plum, the qualities brought by each material are split between them. The impact on the bottom-out sound and feel is more pronounced by the bottom housing, while the top housing has a greater influence on the sound when the key is released. Therefore, users can expect variations in the sound profile and tactile feedback between these two switches, depending on the interaction with the top and bottom housings.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, there are a few notable differences. The Ayara has an actuation force that is unavailable in grams, whereas the Plum's actuation force is also unavailable. However, both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the Ayara having a bottom out force of 62 grams and the Plum having a slightly heavier bottom out force of 70 grams.
Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing switches, as it can greatly impact typing or gaming experiences. For individuals who prefer a lighter feel, the Ayara may be a better option as it allows for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may prefer the Plum switch, with its slightly heavier bottom out force.
Overall, while the actuation force of both switches is unknown, they offer a similar medium bottom out force which should provide a comparable typing experience. However, it's worth noting that the Plum switch is slightly heavier in terms of bottom out force at 70 grams, making it a better choice for individuals seeking a more pronounced keypress.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch is 4.0 mm, while the Kailh Plum tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This makes the Ayara the longer switch, with a difference of 0.4 mm. The Ayara's travel distance falls into the more traditional range, while the Plum's travel distance is on the shallower end. If you are a gamer looking for faster response times, the Plum's shorter travel distance may be more appealing to you. However, if you prefer a more pronounced and substantial feel when pressing down on a key, the Ayara's longer travel distance may be the better option. Overall, the choice between these two switches ultimately depends on your personal preference for 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 Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25 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 Ayara linear switch is known for its perfectly clacky sound profile. It produces a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, which is preferred by those who enjoy a high-pitched sound. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Plum tactile switch is described as neutral and enjoyable. It doesn't have a significant click or clack, but rather produces a moderate sound that is suitable for most users. Keep in mind that the sound of both switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
In terms of feel, the Ayara linear switch offers a polished typing experience. This means that the switch has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Typing on the Ayara switch feels sleek and enjoyable. In contrast, the Plum tactile switch provides a mild typing experience. It falls on the gentler side of the spectrum, making it approachable for most users. Additionally, the Plum switch has a stepped feel, meaning there is a slight pre-travel or post-travel sensation compared to switches with a more pronounced tactile bump.
In conclusion, the Ayara linear switch and the Plum tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of both sound and feel. The Ayara switch provides a clacky sound profile, while the Plum switch has a more neutral and enjoyable sound. In terms of feel, the Ayara switch offers a polished and smooth typing experience, while the Plum switch provides a gentler feel with a slight stepped sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on the individual's preferences and typing style. However, if you prefer a high-pitched sound profile with a medium heftness, you can achieve similar results with either switch.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are someone who prefers a hearty typing experience with a soft bottom-out feel and clacky sound profile, we recommend the SP-Star Ayara linear switch. These switches have a medium bottom out force of 62 grams, providing a satisfying typing experience. Additionally, if you value a polished switch with reduced friction and smooth key travel, the Ayara is a great choice.
On the other hand, if you are looking for a tactile switch that offers a unique heaviness without a pronounced tactile bump, the Kailh Plum tactile switch is the way to go. With a medium-heavy bottom out force of 70 grams, these switches provide a weighty typing experience. Furthermore, the Plum switches have a neutral sound profile that is enjoyable and suitable for most purposes.
Ultimately, the choice between the Ayara and the Plum switches depends on your preferences for typing experience and sound profile. If you prioritize a hearty, clacky feel, go for the Ayara, while if you value a unique weightiness without a pronounced tactile bump, choose the Plum. Both switches offer their own advantages and are suitable for various typing preferences.
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