SP-Star Ayara vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the SP-Star Ayara and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower). The Ayara is a linear switch, known for its medium heftness and providing a hearty typing experience. In addition to a soft bottom-out feel, these switches have a perfectly clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) is a tactile switch that offers maximum tactility. Typing on these switches delivers a sharp tactility and a satisfying clean clack. While the Ayara is categorized as 'Neutral', 'High-pitched', and 'Polished', the POM T1 (Sunflower) is described as 'Resonant', 'Neutral', 'Sharp', 'Accented', 'Snappy', and 'Invigorating'. Both switches have their unique qualities, 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
67g
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
Proprietary
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Two-stage
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Ayara utilizes a nylon top housing, which is known for its ability to enhance the sound of switches by providing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) features a POM top housing that offers a unique and pleasing sound experience. It produces a deeper sound profile that is relatively more muted. While both materials contribute to enhancing the sound of the switches, the Ayara's nylon top housing is likely to provide a more resonant and rounded sound compared to the POM T1's POM top housing.
In terms of their bottom housings, both the Ayara and the POM T1 utilize nylon and POM materials respectively. The nylon bottom housing of the Ayara contributes to its deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to its top housing. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a rounder sound when the switch is pressed. On the other hand, the POM bottom housing of the POM T1 creates an incredibly pleasing and unique sound. It produces a deeper sound profile that is relatively more muted, adding a distinct quality to the typing experience.
When considering the overall typing experience, the blend of top and bottom housing materials plays a significant role. The bottom housing has a more noticeable impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the differences in housing materials between the SP-Star Ayara and the Durock POM T1 will result in variations in the overall sound profile and typing experience of the switches. While both switches aim to provide a pleasing and unique sound, the Ayara's nylon housing materials are likely to offer a deeper and fuller sound compared to the POM T1's POM housing materials. Nonetheless, both switches are designed to enhance the auditory experience and deliver satisfying results.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, it is important to consider the weight of the switches. Unfortunately, the actuation force is unavailable for both switches, so we cannot make a direct comparison in that regard. However, we do know that the Ayara has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is considered medium, while the POM T1 has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is medium-heavy.
Weight is an important factor to consider for different preferences and purposes. Some users may prefer a lighter switch, as it allows them to type for longer periods of time without fatigue. This can be ideal for keyboard use at work or during extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, some individuals may opt for a heavier switch, as it provides a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience. These users would appreciate options with heavier forces.
Although we cannot directly compare the actuation forces, it is reasonable to assume that the actuation forces of both switches are likely to be in a similar range. Therefore, if one prefers a lighter or heavier switch based on the known bottom out forces, it is likely that they would achieve similar results regarding actuation force with either the Ayara or the POM T1.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same distance of travel. This is beneficial for users who prefer consistency in their typing experience and allows for a similar feel regardless of the switch chosen. Whether opting for the Ayara or the POM T1, users can expect the same level of key travel distance, providing a reliable and predictable typing experience.
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 Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the POM T1 (Sunflower) for $5.57.
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
The SP-Star Ayara linear switch is best known for providing a hearty typing experience. When typing on these switches, users can expect a soft bottom-out feel and a clacky sound profile. The sound of the Ayara switch is described as neutral, which means it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile suitable for most intents and purposes. The feel of the Ayara switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish for a sleek typing experience with reduced friction. Overall, the Ayara switch offers a balanced and satisfying typing experience.
On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch is best known for its maximum tactility. Typing on these switches provides a sharp tactility and a satisfying clean clack sound. The sound of the POM T1 switch is described as resonant, with a higher-pitched sound profile that creates an immersive auditory experience. Similar to the Ayara switch, the POM T1 switch is also described as having a neutral sound profile, suitable for most intents and purposes. However, the feel of the POM T1 switch is described as sharp, indicating a high feedback intensity with a strong and crisp tactile bump felt distinctly with each keypress. Additionally, the POM T1 switch is also accentuated, snappy, and invigorating, providing pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a reactive feel.
In conclusion, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ayara switch provides a clacky sound profile with a soft bottom-out feel and a polished finish for a refined typing experience. On the other hand, the POM T1 switch offers a clean clack sound with maximum tactility, a resonant sound profile, and a sharp tactile feel with pronounced feedback. Both switches have a neutral sound profile suitable for various purposes. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the Ayara switch for a hearty typing experience or the POM T1 switch for maximum tactility and a sharp tactile feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a hearty typing experience and a soft bottom-out feel, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch with its medium bottom out force of 62 grams would be a great choice for you. These switches also offer a perfectly clacky sound profile, particularly suited for those who enjoy a neutral or high-pitched sound. On the other hand, if maximum tactility is what you are after, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch with its medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams would be ideal. These switches provide a sharp tactility and a satisfying clean clack, perfect for users who prefer a switch with a polished, sharp, accented, snappy, or invigorating feel. The POM T1 (Sunflower) also offers a resonant or neutral sound profile, depending on your preference. Ultimately, the choice between the Ayara and the POM T1 (Sunflower) boils down to your preference for typing experience, sound profile, and tactile feedback. So, consider your personal preferences in these factors when making your final decision.
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