SP-Star Ayara vs. Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp)
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the SP-Star Ayara and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp). The Ayara is a linear switch, known for its medium heftiness and recommended for those who prefer a hearty typing experience. Typing on the Ayara switches provides a soft bottom-out feel and a satisfyingly clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Silent T1 is a tactile switch that offers the best of both worlds for users who desire both a tactile response and a silenced switch. Ideal for noise-sensitive environments, the Silent T1 provides a medium bump, padded bottom-out feel, and subdued audio feedback. Both switches have their strengths, offering different typing experiences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Two-stage
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) exhibit notable differences in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Ayara features a nylon top housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound. This is primarily due to nylon's softer nature, allowing it to absorb more sound and create a duller and rounder sound profile. In contrast, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Polycarbonate's stiffer plastic composition leads to a more clear and resonant sound profile. Additionally, the polycarbonate top housing of the Silent T1 is particularly advantageous for those planning to use RGB lighting, thanks to its translucency.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both switches feature nylon materials. This common choice contributes to a similar sound profile characterized by deep and full tones. As nylon is a relatively softer plastic compared to harder alternatives, it absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, users of both switches can expect a comparable sound experience when activating the keys.
It is important to note that the distinction between top and bottom housing materials plays a significant role in determining the overall sound and feel of the switches. The bottom housing primarily influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. This means that the Ayara's nylon bottom housing and the Silent T1's nylon bottom housing will contribute to a similar sound experience upon pressing the keys. However, the differences in their respective top housings, nylon for Ayara and polycarbonate for Silent T1, will create contrasting sound profiles when releasing the keys. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches depends on personal preferences for sound and aesthetics, with nylon offering a deeper and fuller sound and polycarbonate providing a sharper and crisper sound while allowing for RGB lighting effects.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch, we find that both switches have an unavailable actuation force. This means that the force required to trigger a keystroke for both switches is unknown. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, we see a difference in weights. The Ayara has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which can be considered medium, while the Silent T1 (Shrimp) has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy.
Considering weight as a factor, those who prefer a lighter typing experience would benefit from the Ayara switch, as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. This lighter weight is ideal for situations like bringing a keyboard to work or engaging in prolonged gaming sessions. On the other hand, for individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience, where a stronger push feel is desired, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch would be a suitable choice with its heavier bottom out force.
In terms of similarities, since both switches have an unavailable actuation force, it is likely that they would provide similar results in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke. However, it is important to note that the bottom out force of the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch is slightly heavier than that of the Ayara switch, giving it a somewhat stronger and more substantial feel during typing.
Travel distance
The travel distances of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch are both 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel. Consequently, whether you choose the Ayara or the Silent T1, you can expect to achieve similar results in terms of tactile feedback and keypress sensation. Both switches offer a satisfying travel distance, ensuring a comfortable typing or gaming experience.
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 Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent T1 (Shrimp) for $5.57.
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
When it comes to sound, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch has a neutral sound profile, producing a moderate sound when pressed. This makes it suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch is described as muted, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches. The Silent T1 is ideal for those who prioritize a noise-sensitive environment and want both a tactile and silenced switch. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Ayara switch offers a polished experience, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. The switch has a sleek finish, reducing friction and providing smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Silent T1 switch is described as stepped and accented. Stepped switches have a two-stage tactile feel, with some pre-travel and/or post-travel sensation. Accented switches provide a medium level of tactility, offering a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. Additionally, both the Ayara and Silent T1 switches have a polished finish, further enhancing the smoothness of the keystrokes.
In conclusion, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch excels in providing a hearty typing experience, with a soft bottom-out feel and a clacky sound profile. It is recommended for those who prefer a medium-weight switch and want a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch is ideal for noise-sensitive environments, offering a medium bump, padded bottom-out feel, and subdued audio feedback. It is suitable for those who desire both a tactile feel and a silenced operation. While the sound and feel of these switches differ, both can provide satisfying results in their respective categories. The Ayara switch offers a medium heftness and a clacky sound, while the Silent T1 switch provides a quieter and more tactile experience. The choice ultimately depends on personal preference and the specific requirements of the user.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a hearty typing experience with a soft bottom-out feel and clacky sound profile, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. With its medium bottom out force of 62 grams, it offers a moderate actuation force requirement and a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work. Additionally, the Ayara switch has a polished finish, providing a sleek and smooth typing experience.
On the other hand, if you desire a tactile and silenced switch, particularly for noise-sensitive environments, the Durock Silent T1 (Shrimp) tactile switch is the perfect option. With a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, it offers a padded bottom-out feel, a medium bump, and subdued audio feedback. The Silent T1 also has a muted sound profile, producing softer and quieter typing sounds compared to regular or clacky switches.
Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and requirements. If you prioritize a hearty typing experience with a clacky sound, go for the Ayara switch. However, if you seek a tactile and silenced switch for a noise-sensitive environment, the Silent T1 (Shrimp) switch would be the better choice. Both switches offer unique features and qualities, ensuring a satisfying typing experience.
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