SP-Star Ayara vs. Dareu Snow
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the Dareu Snow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the SP-Star Ayara and the Dareu Snow mechanical keyboard switches, both of which are linear switches, there are some distinctive features to consider. The Ayara switch is known for its medium heftiness and offers a hearty typing experience, with a soft bottom-out feel and a clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Snow switch stands out for its innovative use of POK material in the top housing and stem, providing a deeper sound signature. The Ayara switch is categorized as 'Neutral', 'High-pitched', and 'Polished', while the Snow switch is categorized as 'Thocky', 'Neutral', 'Low-pitched', and 'Bouncy'. Choosing between these switches depends on whether you prefer a hearty typing experience with a clacky sound or a smoother, deeper sound signature. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
POK
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Two-stage
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and Dareu Snow switches differ in their top housing material. The Ayara utilizes a nylon top housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic absorbing more sound. On the other hand, the Snow features a POK top housing, known for its smoothness and durability, creating smooth, clacky switches with enhanced shock resistance. While both materials offer distinct advantages, the POK material in the Snow switch stands out for its superior strength and wear resistance compared to nylon.
In terms of bottom housing material, both the Ayara and Snow switches use nylon. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound with its softer plastic properties. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, enhancing the overall typing experience. By utilizing nylon for the bottom housing, both switches provide a similar typing experience with a duller and rounder sound due to the sound-absorbing nature of the material.
Overall, the differences between the top housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and Dareu Snow switches showcase unique characteristics that cater to varying preferences in sound profiles and durability. While the Ayara's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, the Snow's POK top housing stands out for its smoothness and exceptional strength. However, both switches share the use of nylon for the bottom housing, resulting in a consistent typing experience with a focus on sound absorption and overall typing comfort. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference for sound profile and durability.
Weight
The SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Dareu Snow linear switch both have medium bottom out forces, with the Ayara being slightly heavier at 62 grams compared to the Snow's 60 grams. However, the actuation force of the Ayara is listed as None grams, while the Snow requires 50 grams to actuate. This means that the Ayara may feel lighter to type on initially, but will require a slightly heavier push to fully press down compared to the Snow. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Ayara may be the better option, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance may lean towards the Snow. In terms of weight, the Snow is the lighter option between the two, which can be beneficial for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch is 4 mm, while the Dareu Snow linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Snow switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the Ayara. The 4.0mm travel distance of the Ayara is more traditional, providing a deeper key press feel. On the other hand, the 3.3 mm travel distance of the Snow switch is shallower, making it preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. Both switches offer their own advantages depending on personal preference, with the Ayara providing a more robust key press feel and the Snow offering quicker response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and key press feel.
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 Dareu Snow has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Snow for $5.76.
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 neutral and high-pitched sound profile, giving users a balance of actuation force and crispness. On the other hand, the Dareu Snow linear switch provides a thocky, neutral, and low-pitched sound which delivers a deep and satisfying typing experience. Both switches offer unique sound profiles, with the Ayara leaning towards a clacky sound and the Snow offering a deeper tone, catering to different preferences in auditory feedback.
In terms of feel, the SP-Star Ayara switch is known for its polished finish, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Conversely, the Dareu Snow switch offers a bouncy feel, giving users a spring-like feedback sensation with lively rebound when keys are pressed. The difference in feel between the two switches caters to individuals who may prefer a more polished and sleek typing experience or those who enjoy a more dynamic and responsive feel while typing.
Overall, the SP-Star Ayara and Dareu Snow linear switches provide users with distinct sound and feel characteristics to enhance their typing experience. Whether you prefer a clacky, high-pitched sound with a polished feel or a deeper, thocky sound with a bouncy sensation, both switches offer quality options for different typing preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference in sound and feel, but users can expect quality performance and tactile feedback from both switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium heftiness in your typing experience with a soft bottom-out feel and clacky sound profile, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper sound signature and are interested in innovative materials like POK for both the top housing and stem, the Dareu Snow linear switch would be the way to go. Consider your preference for sound profile and typing feel when deciding between these two switches to ensure you have a satisfying typing experience.
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