SP-Star Ayara vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring 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 Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring. The Ayara is a linear switch that offers a medium heftiness, making it ideal for those who prefer a robust typing experience. Typing on these switches provides a soft bottom-out feel and a perfectly clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is a tactile switch that offers a moderate level of tactility. It is particularly recommended for those looking for a tactile switch with a lower actuation and bottom-out force. The Aflion Shadow switch has a deep and thocky sound profile that adds to the overall typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Two-stage
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring differ in terms of their impact on the sound profile. The Ayara utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring features a polycarbonate top and bottom housing. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucency of the polycarbonate is especially useful for RGB lighting purposes.
While the Ayara and Shadow (Ink) Single Spring differ in their housing materials, they have some similarities in terms of their impact on sound. Both switches utilize a softer plastic, nylon or polycarbonate, in their top housing. This contributes to a fuller sound profile, albeit in different ways. The Ayara's nylon top housing absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Therefore, if you prefer a switch with a fuller sound profile, either of these switches would provide similar results, despite the differences in their housing materials.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the SP-Star Ayara and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring also exhibit differences in their sound profile. The nylon bottom housing of the Ayara contributes to its deeper and more rounded sound, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring creates a sharper and more resonant sound. Since the bottom housing has more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, these differences would be more noticeable during typing. Therefore, if you prioritize the feel and bottom-out sound of the switch, the Ayara's nylon bottom housing or the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring's polycarbonate bottom housing would provide distinct experiences.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, there are noticeable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Ayara switch has an actuation force that is not specified, but its bottom out force is 62 grams, which can be considered medium. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch has a lighter actuation force of 48 grams and a slightly lighter bottom out force of 55 grams, which is categorized as medium-light.
Considering the weight of the switches is important for individuals with different preferences and needs. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience, ideal for extended periods of typing or long gaming sessions, may find the lighter actuation force of the Shadow (Ink) switch appealing. This allows for less strain and fatigue on the fingers and provides a smoother typing experience. On the contrary, some users may prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, which can be achieved with switches that have heavier actuation forces.
In terms of actuation force, since the Ayara's force is unknown, it is difficult to make a direct comparison with the Shadow (Ink) switch. However, if the actuation forces were to be similar or equal, the typing experience for both switches would result in similar outcomes. This is because the actuation force determines how much pressure is required to trigger a keystroke, and if both switches have similar actuation forces, the typing feel and responsiveness should be comparable.
Ultimately, the Ayara switch can be considered heavier in terms of bottom out force as it requires 62 grams of pressure to be fully pressed down, while the Shadow (Ink) switch is slightly lighter with a bottom out force of 55 grams. Therefore, individuals who prefer a slightly heavier and more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Ayara switch, while those seeking a lighter and smoother typing experience might prefer the Shadow (Ink) switch due to its lower bottom out force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key using either switch, you will experience a consistent travel distance of 4 mm from the top of the switch to the bottom. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of the tactile feedback and keypress sensation provided by these switches.
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 Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring for $3.57.
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 known for its medium heftiness, making it ideal for those seeking a robust typing experience. It offers a soft bottom-out feel while typing and produces a perfectly clacky sound profile. This implies that the switch has a moderate actuation force requirement and a neutral sound profile. The sound produced is sharp and crisp, suiting individuals who prefer a high-pitched sound.
On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch offers a medium level of tactility. It is recommended for those looking for a tactile switch with a lower actuation and bottom-out force to provide an approachable tactility. The switch also features a deep and thocky sound profile. Unfortunately, no further information is available regarding the specific sound characteristics of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch.
When it comes to feel, the Ayara switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish. This contributes to a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Conversely, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch is characterized as bouncy. This suggests that the keys provide a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, offering a lively feel with rebound upon pressing.
In conclusion, both the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch have their own distinct qualities. The Ayara switch provides a robust typing experience with a soft bottom-out feel, clacky sound profile, and a polished finish for reduced friction. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switch offers an approachable tactility, a deep and thocky sound profile, and a bouncy feel with key rebound. Based on the available information, both switches seem to offer satisfying experiences, albeit with different characteristics. However, it is essential to consider other factors such as the choice of board and keycaps, as they can also influence the overall sound and feel of the switches.
Conclusion
In closing, if you prefer a hefty and clacky typing experience, we highly recommend the SP-Star Ayara linear switch. With its medium heftness and soft bottom-out feel, these switches provide a satisfying feedback and sound profile. They are particularly suitable for those who enjoy a hearty typing experience. On the other hand, if you're looking for a tactile switch with approachable tactility and a deep thocky sound, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is an excellent choice. With a lower actuation and bottom-out force, these switches offer a comfortable tactility and a unique sound profile. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you desire. Whether you prefer the clackiness of the Ayara or the tactility of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, both switches offer their own distinct qualities to enhance your typing experience.
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