SP-Star Ayara vs. Kailh Sage
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the Kailh Sage switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the SP-Star Ayara and the Kailh Sage. While both switches offer unique characteristics and advantages, they differ in terms of typing experience and sound profile. The Ayara is best known for its medium heftness, making it ideal for those who prefer a hearty typing experience. It provides a soft bottom-out feel and emits a perfectly clacky sound, categorized as 'Neutral', 'High-pitched', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Sage switches offer a distinct clicky typing experience. With its heavy weight and refreshingly sharp clickiness, it provides an invigorating feel while typing, categorized as 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', and 'Crunchy'. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
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 Sage differ significantly in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. The Ayara features a nylon top housing, which creates 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 Sage utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Polycarbonate's stiffer plastic composition allows for a more clear and resonant sound profile. Additionally, the polycarbonate material is translucent, making it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Ayara and the Sage utilize nylon material. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile for both switches. The softer nature of nylon enables it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Despite having different top housings, the bottom housing materials provide a similar acoustic experience for the Ayara and the Sage.
When comparing the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall sound and feel of the switches, it becomes apparent that the bottom housing has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel. The qualities of the bottom housing material are most noticeable when pressing down on the switch. Conversely, the top housing material has a more pronounced effect on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the choice of housing material in the top and bottom sections of a switch plays a crucial role in the sound experience during both typing and releasing actions.
In conclusion, the SP-Star Ayara and the Kailh Sage exhibit distinct differences in their housing materials. While the Ayara features a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound, the Sage utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, delivering a sharper and crisper sound profile. Both switches, however, share a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound. The choice of housing material in the top and bottom sections of a switch influences the sound and feel of typing and releasing actions, emphasizing the importance of selecting the most suitable materials for desired auditory and tactile experiences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, one notable difference is the bottom out force. The Ayara has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which falls into the medium range, while the Sage has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 70 grams, making it medium-heavy. This means that the Sage requires a slightly stronger push during typing compared to the Ayara.
However, the actuation force for both switches is not mentioned, so it is unclear whether they are the same or not. Since actuation force refers to the force required to trigger a keystroke, if the actuation forces of both switches are the same, users can expect similar results in terms of triggering a keystroke despite the difference in bottom out force.
Considering weight, some users might prefer a lighter switch, as it allows for longer periods of comfortable typing, making it suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who desire a more substantial typing experience may prefer switches with heavier forces, providing a stronger push feel. In this case, the Ayara switch would be considered lighter, and the Sage switch heavier, unless both switches have the same actuation force and thus offer a comparable typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, we can see that the Ayara has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Sage has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Ayara's travel distance falls into the more traditional range, while the Sage's travel distance is slightly shallower. Gamers who value faster response times tend to prefer shorter travel distances, making the Sage a favorable choice for them. However, those who enjoy a deeper and more immersive typing experience might opt for the Ayara with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness. Both switches offer unique benefits, and selecting either will result in satisfactory typing experiences.
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 Sage 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
In terms of sound, the Ayara switch offers a clacky sound profile. This sound is neutral, meaning it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile. It is suitable for both beginners and advanced users, and can be used in various settings, whether at home or at work. On the other hand, the Sage switch produces a distinct clicky sound. It has a crunchy sound, similar to stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. This sound is sharp and crisp when pressed.
When it comes to feel, the Ayara switch provides a soft bottom-out feel. It is described as polished, which means it has a smooth and refined finish. This results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Sage switch offers an invigorating feel. It provides pronounced feedback, a snappy and reactive feel, and a moderate to firm actuation force. It also has a sharp tactile bump that can be felt distinctly with each keypress.
Taking all the available information into account, the Ayara switch is best suited for those who prefer a hearty typing experience with a clacky sound profile. It offers a medium heftness and a soft bottom-out feel. Alternatively, the Sage switch is ideal for those seeking a distinct clicky typing experience with a heavy weight and a refreshingly sharp clickiness. Both switches have their unique qualities, and depending on personal preference, one can choose between the clacky sound and soft bottom-out feel of the Ayara or the distinct clicky sound and invigorating feel of the Sage. Please note that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Kailh Sage clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a hearty typing experience with a soft bottom-out feel and a clacky sound, the Ayara switches are an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a distinct clicky typing experience with a heavier weight and a refreshing sharp clickiness, the Sage switches would be more suited to your tastes.
In terms of sound, the Ayara switches offer a neutral sound profile that is suitable for most intents and purposes. However, if you prefer a sharp and crisp sound when pressing keys, the Sage switches would be more appealing with their crunchy sound reminiscent of stepping on piles of autumn leaves.
When it comes to feel, the Ayara switches have a polished finish, resulting in a sleek and smooth typing experience. This is achieved through the use of high-quality materials and factory lubing, which reduces friction and provides smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Sage switches offer an invigorating typing sensation with pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. The sharp tactile bump of the Sage switches is prominent and can be felt distinctly with each keypress.
Ultimately, consider your typing preferences and whether you prioritize the typing experience, sound, or feel when choosing between the Ayara and Sage switches. Both switches offer their unique characteristics and can enhance your overall typing experience. Whether you prefer a hearty and clacky feel or a crisp and clicky experience, there is a switch that suits your needs.
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