SP-Star Ayara vs. KTT Semi Mute
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the KTT Semi Mute switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that cater to different preferences are the SP-Star Ayara and the KTT Semi Mute. The Ayara switch is highly recommended for those who prefer a hearty typing experience, as it offers a medium heftiness and a soft bottom-out feel. Along with this, it produces a perfectly clacky sound profile, satisfying the typists who enjoy audible feedback. On the other hand, the Semi Mute switch is specifically designed for individuals who value a noise-free environment and undisturbed typing, especially during late-night sessions. Despite their completely silent operation, these switches incorporate advanced dampening technology to provide a comfortable and gratifying typing feel. They feature a linear actuation, ensuring smooth key presses. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Two-stage
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the KTT Semi Mute differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Ayara features a nylon top housing, which is known for its softer plastic composition. This leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches equipped with this material. In contrast, the Semi Mute utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is relatively stiffer. As a result, it produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, polycarbonate is beneficial for RGB lighting applications due to its translucency. Therefore, if you are looking for a switch with a more mellow and absorptive sound, the Ayara with its nylon top housing would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a sharper and more pronounced sound, the Semi Mute's polycarbonate top housing would be more appropriate.
Similar to the top housing, the bottom housings of the Ayara and the Semi Mute also vary in material. The Ayara features a nylon bottom housing, which shares similar characteristics with its nylon top housing. The nylon material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a relatively duller and rounder sound. Conversely, the Semi Mute incorporates a polycarbonate bottom housing. This relatively stiffer plastic leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is useful for those who plan to use RGB lighting with their switches. Therefore, if you value consistency in sound throughout the typing experience, the Ayara's nylon bottom housing would provide a similar sound profile to its nylon top housing. Conversely, the Semi Mute's polycarbonate bottom housing would add a different touch to the overall sound profile, emphasizing sharpness and crispness when bottoming out the keys.
When comparing the housing materials of the Ayara and the Semi Mute, it is important to note how the qualities of each material are distributed between the top and bottom housing. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing affects the sound when you release a key. This means that the Ayara's nylon top housing and bottom housing will collectively contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Semi Mute's polycarbonate top housing and bottom housing will result in a sharper and more resonant sound profile. If you prefer consistency in sound between pressing down and releasing a key, opting for a switch with the same housing material for both the top and bottom would be ideal. However, if you desire a more dynamic sound experience, the contrasting housing materials of the Ayara and the Semi Mute provide options for different tonal qualities throughout the typing process.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, a few key differences emerge. The Ayara's actuation force is currently unknown, while the Semi Mute requires 43 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Ayara has a medium 62 grams, while the Semi Mute comes in slightly lighter at 58 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch may be the preferred option. With its lower actuation force and slightly lighter bottom out force, it provides a smoother and potentially more comfortable keystroke. This can be beneficial for individuals who spend long periods typing or engaging in gaming sessions, as it reduces the strain on their fingers.
On the other hand, for users who enjoy a more substantial typing feel and prefer a stronger push, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch would be a suitable choice. While we are unable to provide the exact actuation force at the moment, its bottom out force of 62 grams indicates a moderately heavy keystroke. This can offer a satisfying tactile feedback and a sense of solidity during typing.
In summary, the Ayara and Semi Mute switches differ in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Ayara is the heavier option, providing a potentially more substantial typing experience, while the Semi Mute is lighter, promoting extended typing comfort. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch is an important factor to consider when choosing a keyboard. In the case of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch, both switches have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will feel a 4 mm distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Therefore, when it comes to travel distance, both switches offer similar results.
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 Semi Mute has an MSRP of $3.97 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi Mute for $3.55.
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 SP-Star Ayara linear switch has a neutral sound profile with a perfectly clacky sound when pressed. This means that it produces a moderate sound that is not too rich or bassy, making it suitable for most purposes. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch is described as muted, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches. Despite being called "Semi Mute," these switches are completely silent in operation, making them ideal for those who prioritize a noise-free environment, especially during late-night typing sessions. Both switches have a neutral actuation force requirement, ensuring that they are suitable for beginners and advanced users alike.
In terms of feel, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience. This is achieved through either the use of high-quality materials or factory lubrication, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch is described as buttery and mild. This means that it provides a smooth and fluid keystroke experience and offers a gentle typing sensation. The feel of both switches is approachable to most users, as they provide a safe middle-ground between more pronounced characteristics.
Overall, the SP-Star Ayara and KTT Semi Mute linear switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ayara provides a hearty typing experience with a soft bottom-out feel and a clacky sound profile. It is a great option for those who prefer a moderate sound and a polished typing feel. On the other hand, the Semi Mute delivers a completely silent operation with advanced dampening technology, catering to individuals who require a noise-free environment and desire undisturbed typing. Its buttery and mild feel ensures a smooth and effortless typing experience. It is important to consider personal preferences and the specific requirements of each user to make the best choice between these two options. However, it is worth noting that if a noise-free environment is the main priority, both switches will provide similar results in terms of sound.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a hearty typing experience with a medium bottom out force and a clacky sound profile, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch would be the better choice for you. These switches provide a polished feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, if you value a noise-free environment and desire undisturbed typing, especially during late-night sessions, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch is the way to go. With its slightly lower bottom out force and advanced dampening technology, these switches offer a comfortable and gratifying typing feel. They produce a muted sound, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a hearty typing experience or a noise-free environment.
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