SP-Star Ayara vs. TTC Silent Red
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the TTC Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options stand out: the SP-Star Ayara and the TTC Silent Red. The Ayara switch is best known for its medium heftness, making it highly recommended for those who prefer a hearty typing experience. Typing on the Ayara switches provides a soft bottom-out feel accompanied by a satisfying clacky sound profile. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smooth and seamless typing experience without all the noise, the Silent Red switches are the ideal choice. With a muted sound profile, these switches are perfect for office or shared living space use. Furthermore, the Silent Red switch offers a consistent feel from top to bottom, with a padded bottom-out feel for maximum comfort. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision based on your personal preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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 the TTC Silent Red differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Ayara utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Due to the relatively softer nature of nylon, it absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound overall. On the other hand, the Silent Red features a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic and contributes to a more clear and resonant sound profile. However, both switches share the use of nylon for their bottom housing, resulting in a similar deeper and fuller sound profile when pressed.
While the top and bottom housings of the Ayara and Silent Red switches differ, they still impact the overall sound profile in a unique way. When pressing down on the switches, the materials of the bottom housing come into play, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. In the case of the Ayara, the softer nylon bottom housing likely contributes to a deeper and fuller sound when the keys are pressed. Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the Silent Red offers a comparable effect, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile upon key presses.
In contrast, the top housing materials of these switches have a greater influence on the sound when a key is released. The nylon top housing of the Ayara absorbs more sound due to its softer plastic composition, creating a duller and rounder sound upon key release. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent Red, being a stiffer plastic, produces a sharper and crisper sound when keys are released. These distinctions in sound profiles highlight the contrasting qualities that the housing materials bring to each switch, providing users with options depending on their preferred sound characteristics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. Starting with actuation force, the Ayara's value is unavailable, while the Silent Red requires 45 grams of force. Although we don't have the specific number for the Ayara, it's safe to assume that it falls within a similar range, resulting in a comparable typing experience in terms of required force to trigger a keystroke. Moving on to bottom out force, the Ayara has a force of 62 grams, which is considered medium, while the Silent Red is slightly heavier at 63.5 grams, classified as medium-heavy. This means that the Silent Red provides a slightly more substantial typing experience in terms of the force required to fully press the keys.
Considering the weight of the switches, it is worth noting that a lighter switch, like the Silent Red, can be preferred by those who type for longer periods or engage in extensive gaming sessions. The lighter actuation force allows for a smoother and potentially less fatiguing typing experience. However, some individuals might prefer a heavier actuation force, as it provides a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience. These individuals would benefit from options with heavier forces, such as the Ayara.
In summary, although we do not have the exact actuation force for the Ayara switch, it can be assumed to be similar to the Silent Red due to their comparable typing experiences. However, the Silent Red is slightly heavier in terms of bottom out force, providing a slightly more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience, whether one prefers a lighter or heavier feel.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the TTC Silent Red linear switch, it is clear that the Ayara has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Silent Red has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. The Ayara's 4.0mm travel distance falls within the traditional range, providing a balance between depth and responsiveness. On the other hand, the Silent Red offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which is favored by gamers seeking faster response times. Choosing between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preference; if you prefer a more responsive feel, the Silent Red's shorter travel distance may be ideal for you. However, if you prefer a deeper keystroke, the Ayara's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying typing experience. Both options offer similar results in terms of key press travel, just with a slight variation in 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 Red has an MSRP of $5.28 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Red for $4.38.
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 switch has a clacky sound profile that some may find satisfying. It falls into the category of a neutral switch, producing a moderate sound that can be suitable for both beginners and advanced typists. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Red switch is known for its muted sound profile. It produces a softer and quieter sound, making it an excellent choice for office or shared living spaces where noise reduction is important. It minimizes the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
When considering feel, both switches offer a polished typing experience. The SP-Star Ayara switch has a soft bottom-out feel and provides a smooth and refined keystroke experience. This is attributed to the materials used and potentially factory lubing that reduces friction, resulting in smooth key travel. The TTC Silent Red switch, on the other hand, provides a buttery typing sensation. It offers a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, delivering a seamless and effortless feel from top to bottom. It's also described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that falls within a safe middle-ground zone.
In summary, the SP-Star Ayara and TTC Silent Red switches differ in their sound profiles. The Ayara produces a clacky sound, while the Silent Red provides a muted and softer sound. However, both switches offer a polished typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Whether you prefer a hearty typing experience or a smooth and seamless one, both switches have their own unique qualities to suit different preferences. If you prefer a clacky sound with a medium heftiness, the Ayara would be a good choice. If you prioritize a quieter and smoother typing experience, the Silent Red would be more suitable. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on your personal preferences and the specific requirements of your typing environment.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a robust and tactile typing experience, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. With its medium bottom out force of 62 grams, these switches provide a hearty typing experience and a clacky sound profile. The Ayara switches also have a polished feel, offering reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a quiet and seamless typing experience, the TTC Silent Red linear switch is the perfect option. With a slightly higher bottom out force of 63.5 grams, these switches deliver a smooth and consistent feel from top to bottom. The Silent Reds have a muted sound profile, making them suitable for office or shared living space use. Additionally, they offer a padded bottom-out feel for maximum comfort.
Ultimately, your choice between the SP-Star Ayara and the TTC Silent Red switches will depend on your preferences for typing experience and sound profile. If you enjoy a robust and clacky typing experience, choose the Ayara. However, if you prefer a quiet and seamless typing experience, the Silent Reds are the better option. Consider your environment and personal preferences to make the most suitable decision.
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