SP-Star Ayara vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options are the SP-Star Ayara and the Outemu Red Panda. The Ayara is a linear switch that offers a medium heftness, making it ideal for those who prefer a hearty typing experience. This switch provides a soft bottom-out feel and a perfectly clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Red Panda is a tactile switch that offers a light-medium amount of tactility. When typing on these switches, users can expect a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound and a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound. While the Ayara is categorized as 'Neutral', 'High-pitched', and 'Polished', the Red Panda is described as 'Thocky' and 'Mild'. Both switches have their own unique characteristics and appeal to different typing preferences. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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 Outemu Red Panda switches differ significantly. The Ayara features a nylon top housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Red Panda utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, offering a more clear and resonant sound profile. Additionally, if RGB lighting is of importance, the transparent quality of polycarbonate makes it an ideal choice for the top housing.
While the top housings of the Ayara and Red Panda switches vary significantly, the bottom housings are both constructed from nylon. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that promotes a deeper and fuller sound profile. Its softer nature allows for better sound absorption compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Thus, in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, both the Ayara and Red Panda will provide similar results due to their common nylon bottom housing.
It is important to note that if a switch features different top and bottom housings, the qualities brought by each housing material will be divided between the top and bottom of the switch. Therefore, when pressing down on such a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing will be more prominent, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. This distinction emphasizes the significance of choosing the appropriate housing material for different aspects of switch performance.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, there are some similarities and differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. Starting with the actuation force, the Ayara's grams are not available, but the Red Panda requires 50 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. While the exact actuation force for the Ayara is unknown, we can assume it is around a similar range. This means that both switches have a relatively light actuation force, making them suitable for those who prefer a lighter keystroke to type for longer periods or engage in extended gaming sessions.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Ayara has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which can be considered medium. On the other hand, the Red Panda has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 60 grams, also falling within the medium range. Both switches provide a satisfactory typing experience with a substantial push feel, but neither one is particularly heavy.
Considering weight for different preferences, those who enjoy a lighter typing experience might find both switches to be suitable options. However, if someone prefers a stronger and more substantial push feel, they might lean towards the Ayara with its slightly heavier bottom out force.
In conclusion, while the exact actuation force for the Ayara switch is unknown, it is safe to assume that it is within a similar range to the Red Panda. Both switches offer a light actuation force, making them ideal for extended typing periods and gaming sessions. In terms of bottom out force, the Ayara is slightly heavier than the Red Panda, but both fall under the medium range. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch is 4.0 mm, while the travel distance of the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch is 3.3 mm. The Ayara has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Red Panda. A 4.0 mm travel distance is considered to be the most traditional, providing a balanced feel when typing. On the other hand, the 3.3 mm travel distance of the Red Panda is shallower, making it ideal for gamers who prioritize faster response times. The shorter travel distance allows for quicker keystrokes, giving gamers a competitive advantage. However, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance too abrupt, and may prefer the longer travel distance of the Ayara for a more satisfying typing experience with a greater sense of depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming 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 Outemu Red Panda comes in at $3.40 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
The SP-Star Ayara linear switch is best known for its medium heftiness, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer a hearty typing experience. When typing on these switches, users can expect a soft bottom-out feel and a perfectly clacky sound profile. This sound profile can be described as neutral, with a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile. It produces a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, making it a good option for those who prefer higher-pitched switches. The Ayara also offers a polished feel, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch provides a light-medium amount of tactility, giving users a more pronounced typing experience. When typing on these switches, users will experience a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound and a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound. The Red Panda switches can be described as thocky, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed and released. This offers a unique sound profile compared to the Ayara.
In conclusion, the Ayara and Red Panda switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of both sound and feel. The Ayara provides a neutral sound profile with a clacky sound and a polished feel for a sleek typing experience, while the Red Panda offers a thocky sound profile and a mild feel for a more pronounced typing experience. It's important to consider personal preferences when choosing between these switches, as the sound and feel can greatly impact the user's typing experience. However, if you prefer a similar clacky sound profile with a safe middle-ground feel, the Ayara could provide similar results to the Red Panda.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a hearty typing experience with a soft bottom-out feel and clacky sound, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch would be a great choice for you. These switches have a medium bottom out force of 62 grams, providing a medium heftness that many enthusiasts appreciate. The Ayara switches are versatile and suitable for both beginners and advanced users, making them ideal for use at home or in a work setting.
On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter amount of tactility and a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound with a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch would be a better fit. With a bottom out force of 60 grams, the Red Panda offers a light-medium amount of tactility, providing a satisfying typing experience. These switches produce a thocky sound, which is deep, rich, and enjoyable.
When it comes to sound, the Ayara switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for most intents and purposes. However, if you prefer a sharper and crisper sound, the Red Panda switch would be a better choice.
In terms of feel, the Ayara switch has a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Red Panda switch offers a mild typing experience, standing in a safe and approachable middle-ground zone.
Ultimately, the choice between the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch depends on your personal preferences for typing experience, sound profile, and feel. Consider the qualities and characteristics described for each switch and choose the one that aligns with your preferences. Happy typing!
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