SP-Star Ayara vs. TTC Silent Bluish White (V2)
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) 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 TTC Silent Bluish White. The Ayara is a linear switch that offers a hearty typing experience with its medium heftness. Typing on Ayara switches provides a soft bottom-out feel along with a satisfyingly clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Silent Bluish White is a tactile switch that offers a medium tactile feel, providing a precise and comfortable typing experience. These switches are designed to be as quiet as possible, making them ideal for office or shared living space use. While the Ayara focuses on delivering a robust typing experience, the Silent Bluish White prioritizes a quiet and tactile feedback. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
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 TTC Silent Bluish White switches differ in terms of the materials used. The Ayara utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings, while the Silent Bluish White features a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing. This variation in materials leads to distinct differences in sound profiles and tactile feedback.
Starting with the top housing, the Ayara's nylon construction offers a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is due to nylon being a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Silent Bluish White's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that enhances clarity and resonance. Moreover, the polycarbonate housing's translucency is a bonus for those who wish to use RGB lighting.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both switches share the same nylon material. This commonality means that the bottom housings of both the Ayara and Silent Bluish White offer similar qualities. They contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to the nylon's softness and ability to absorb sound. The bottom housing also plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch.
It's worth noting that when a switch has different housing materials for its top and bottom, the qualities of each material will be split between the two parts. In this case, the characteristics of the nylon and polycarbonate are noticeable when pressing down and releasing keys. The bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released.
In summary, the SP-Star Ayara and TTC Silent Bluish White switches differentiate themselves in terms of their housing materials. The nylon top housing of the Ayara creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent Bluish White produces a sharper and crisper sound. However, both switches share a nylon bottom housing, resulting in similar qualities for the bottom-out sound and feel. Understanding the distinct properties of each housing material allows users to choose a switch that aligns with their desired typing experience.
Weight
When considering the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch, it is clear that there are distinct differences between the two. In terms of actuation force, the Ayara's force remains unknown, while the Silent Bluish White requires 42 grams, which is considered light. On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Ayara requires 62 grams, which falls into the medium range, whereas the Silent Bluish White only requires 50 grams, making it lighter.
For those who prioritize a light typing experience, the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch would be the preferred choice. This switch allows for a quick triggering of keystrokes with a comparatively lower actuation force, making it ideal for users who want a quicker response time and a lighter typing feel. However, if one prefers a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push, the Ayara would be the better option. Its higher bottom out force provides a feeling of solidity and adds weight to keystrokes, allowing for a more satisfying typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on individual preferences. If weight is a crucial consideration, some may prefer the lighter actuation force and bottom out force of the Silent Bluish White. However, if a more substantial typing experience is desired, the Ayara's heavier bottom out force would be a better fit. In either case, users can expect satisfactory results based on their specific typing preferences.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch is 4 mm, while the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches offer a noticeable difference in travel distance, with the Ayara being the longer option. A 4.0mm travel distance is considered the most traditional, providing a balanced level of depth when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the 3.5mm travel distance of the Silent Bluish White switch is on the shallower side, appealing to gamers who prioritize faster response times. The shorter travel distance allows for quicker key presses and may be preferred by those seeking a more responsive experience. However, for individuals who prefer a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing keys, the Ayara with its 4.0mm travel distance would be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired level of key travel depth.
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 TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Bluish White (V2) for $4.63.
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 perfectly clacky sound profile, which is described as high-pitched, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch is designed to be as quiet as possible, with a muted sound. The muted sound of the Silent Bluish White switch produces a softer and quieter sound compared to the Ayara switch. Therefore, if you prefer a louder and more distinctive sound profile, the Ayara switch would be the better choice. However, if you prioritize a quieter typing experience, the Silent Bluish White switch would be the more suitable option.
In terms of feel, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch is described as polished, which indicates a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. This means that the Ayara switch offers reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch is described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. It is also described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that stands in a safe, middle-ground zone. Additionally, it is worth noting that the Silent Bluish White switch is also stepped, meaning it provides a tactile sensation with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. Therefore, if you prefer a switch with a polished and refined feel, the Ayara switch would be a good choice. However, if you prefer a buttery and mild tactile experience, the Silent Bluish White switch would be more suitable.
Taking all the available information into account, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch offer different qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ayara switch provides a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, along with a polished and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Bluish White switch offers a muted sound profile, combined with a buttery and mild tactile feel. If you prefer a more audible and distinctive typing sound, along with a polished feel, the Ayara switch would be a good choice. However, if you prioritize a quieter typing experience with a buttery and mild tactile feel, the Silent Bluish White switch would be the better option. It is important to consider your personal preferences and the environment in which you will be using the keyboard to make the best decision.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you prefer a hearty typing experience with a soft bottom-out feel and a perfectly clacky sound profile, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch with a bottom-out force of 62 grams would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a precise and comfortable typing experience with a satisfying level of resistance, along with the benefit of quietness for office or shared living spaces, the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch with a bottom-out force of 50 grams would be a better option. Ultimately, the Ayara switch offers a medium actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, suitable for most intents and purposes. Meanwhile, the Silent Bluish White switch provides a softer and quieter sound, making it perfect for minimizing noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. In terms of feel, the Ayara switch offers a polished, smooth and refined finish, reducing friction and providing a sleek typing experience. Conversely, the Silent Bluish White switch offers a buttery, mild, stepped, and subtle typing experience with a gentle resistance and a sound signature suitable for shared spaces. Assess your preferences and requirements to make an informed decision between these two switches.
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