SP-Star Ayara vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the SP-Star Ayara and KTT Purple Star stand out as two popular linear options. The Ayara offers a medium heftiness, providing a hearty typing experience with a soft bottom-out feel and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Purple Star boasts an all-POM construction for a buttery smooth typing experience with a very light 45g bottom-out, perfect for light typists. While the Ayara is categorized as 'Neutral', 'High-pitched', and 'Polished', the Purple Star falls under 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', and 'Easy-to-press' categories. If you prefer a more substantial feel and clacky sound, the Ayara may be the choice for you. However, if you prioritize a smooth and light typing experience, the Purple Star could be the better option. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the SP-Star Ayara and the KTT Purple Star switches differ in composition and sound profile. The Ayara features nylon top and bottom housings, which create a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon absorbing more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing. On the other hand, the Purple Star utilizes POM top and bottom housings, which produce a unique and pleasing sound that is on the deeper side and relatively muted compared to nylon. While both housing materials offer a deep sound profile, the specific characteristics of nylon and POM create distinct typing experiences.
In terms of sound production, the Ayara's nylon housing material emphasizes a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a duller and rounder typing experience. Conversely, the Purple Star's POM housing material produces a relatively more muted sound that is on the deeper side. This results in a unique and pleasing sound that sets it apart from the Ayara's nylon housing. Despite these differences, both housing materials are designed to enhance the overall sound experience while typing, catering to individuals with varying preferences for sound profiles.
When comparing the top and bottom housings of the SP-Star Ayara and the KTT Purple Star switches, it is important to note that each housing material contributes differently to the overall typing experience. The qualities of the bottom housing impact the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. While the Ayara and Purple Star may offer similar deep sound profiles, the specific characteristics of nylon and POM result in distinct typing experiences that cater to different preferences for sound and feel. Ultimately, the choice between these housing materials will depend on individual preferences for sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, it is clear that their actuation and bottom out forces differ significantly. The Ayara has no specified actuation force, making it difficult to compare directly to the Purple Star, which has an actuation force of 43 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Ayara is 62 grams, while the Purple Star has a bottom out force of 50 grams. This makes the Purple Star a lighter option in terms of typing pressure compared to the Ayara. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the Purple Star for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may favor the slightly more substantial feel of the Ayara with its medium bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing experiences.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch is 4 mm, while the KTT Purple Star linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Ayara switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Purple Star switch. A 4.0mm travel distance is more traditional, offering a bit more depth when pressing down on the key, which some users may find more satisfying. On the other hand, the Purple Star switch with a 3.5 mm travel distance is slightly shallower and may appeal to those looking for a faster response time, such as gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for travel distance and the type of typing or gaming experience you are looking for.
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 Purple Star comes in at $4.88 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 SP-Star Ayara linear switch offers a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star linear switch produces a low-pitched, bass-heavy tone that provides a mellow typing experience. Depending on personal preference, individuals who prefer a more neutral sound may lean towards the Ayara, while those looking for a richer, bass-heavy sound may prefer the Purple Star.
Moving on to feel, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Meanwhile, the KTT Purple Star linear switch provides a mild and easy-to-press typing experience, suitable for those looking for a gentle typing feel with minimal resistance. Both switches fall within the safe middle-ground zone in terms of feel, catering to a wide range of users who value comfort and ease of typing.
In conclusion, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch offer distinct sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. While the Ayara provides a neutral sound profile and a polished typing feel, the Purple Star offers a low-pitched sound and a mild, easy-to-press typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between these two switches to enhance their typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer quality performance and can provide similar results depending on the user's specific preferences.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when deciding between the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience and sound profile. If you enjoy a medium heftiness and a clacky sound profile, the Ayara with its 62g bottom-out force may be the ideal choice for a hearty typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a buttery smooth typing experience with a light 50g bottom-out force and a neutral sound signature, the Purple Star switches with their all-POM construction are a great option for light typists seeking comfort and ease. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal typing style and sound preference, so choose the switch that best suits your needs and enhances your typing experience.
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