SP-Star Ayara vs. Gateron Smoothie Silver
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the SP-Star Ayara and the Gateron Smoothie Silver both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Ayara is a linear switch known for its medium heftiness, providing a hearty typing experience with a soft bottom-out feel and a clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver is also a linear switch but stands out for its all-POM construction and short travel distance, resulting in lightning-fast actuation with a thocky sound and unparalleled smoothness. While the Ayara may appeal to those seeking a more tactile typing experience, the Smoothie Silver is ideal for those who prioritize speed and a light touch. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Two-stage
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the Gateron Smoothie Silver, we can see that both switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Ayara features a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. Conversely, the Smoothie Silver utilizes a POM top housing, which also creates a pleasing deep sound but is relatively more muted compared to nylon. While both materials result in a unique sound profile, the Ayara's nylon top housing may produce a slightly rounder sound compared to the Smoothie Silver's POM top housing.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the Ayara's nylon bottom housing and the Smoothie Silver's POM bottom housing both contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switch. Nylon is once again highlighted for its ability to absorb sound and create a duller, rounder sound profile. Similarly, POM housings are noted for producing a pleasing and unique sound on the deeper side, albeit more muted. While the specific qualities of each material may differ slightly, both bottom housings play a crucial role in impacting the overall sound and feel of the switch when pressed.
Ultimately, whether you choose the SP-Star Ayara with its nylon housing or the Gateron Smoothie Silver with its POM housing, both switches offer a unique typing experience based on their housing materials. While the top and bottom housings may vary in material composition, the resulting sound profiles of both switches are distinctive and appealing. Regardless of the differences in housing materials, users can expect a similar level of quality and satisfaction in terms of sound and feel when typing on either the Ayara or the Smoothie Silver.
Weight
In comparing the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, we see that the Ayara has a bottom out force of 62 grams, while the actuation force is not specified. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver has an actuation force of 45 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. The Ayara would provide a more substantial typing experience due to its higher bottom out force, while the Smoothie Silver may be preferred by those looking for a lighter actuation force for longer typing sessions. Both switches offer varying benefits depending on individual preferences, with the Ayara being heavier in terms of bottom out force and the Smoothie Silver being lighter in terms of actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The SP-Star Ayara linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Smoothie Silver offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Ayara. The difference may not be significant to some users, but for those who prefer a quicker response time, the Smoothie Silver may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, those who enjoy a deeper key press feel may opt for the Ayara with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, and regardless of the small variation in travel distance, users can expect similar results in terms of key actuation and tactile feedback.
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 Gateron Smoothie Silver has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie Silver for $2.60.
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 offers a perfectly clacky sound profile that is neutral in nature, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch is noted for its thocky sound, which provides a more unique and satisfying auditory experience. Both switches offer distinct sound characteristics, with the Ayara having a neutral and clacky profile while the Smoothie Silver produces a thocky sound.
In terms of feel, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience due to its materials or factory lubrication. This results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing feel. However, information on the feel of the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch is currently unavailable. Given the Ayara's polished feel, it is likely that the Smoothie Silver may also offer a smooth and comfortable typing experience due to its feature of unparalleled smoothness.
Considering the available information on both switches, the SP-Star Ayara and Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and potentially feel. The Ayara is best suited for those who prefer a hearty typing experience with a clacky sound profile, while the Smoothie Silver is ideal for users seeking lightning-fast actuation and a thocky sound. Both switches have their own strengths, and depending on individual preferences, users can expect quality performance from either option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's specific typing preferences and desired sound and feel attributes.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, consider your typing preferences and priorities. If you prefer a medium heftiness and a clacky sound profile, the Ayara switches may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you value lightning-fast actuation, thocky sound, unparalleled smoothness, and a feather-light touch, the Smoothie Silver switches might be more up your alley. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what features matter most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch. Choose wisely based on your typing style and desired typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
