SP-Star Ayara vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two standout choices are the SP-Star Ayara and the KTT Strawberry, both of which are linear switches. The Ayara is best known for its medium heftiness, making it the ideal choice for those who desire a robust typing experience. Typing on the Ayara switches offers a soft bottom-out feel and a satisfyingly clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Strawberry switches are loved for their appealing pink and clear housings, delivering smooth actuation and a comfortable feel. With reliable performance as their forte, the Strawberry switches are categorized as low-pitched, frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can ultimately decide on the best switch for your specific preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Polycarbonate
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 KTT Strawberry differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Ayara utilizes a nylon top housing, which is known for its ability to absorb more sound due to its softer plastic composition. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a duller and rounder sound when typing. In contrast, the Strawberry features a polycarbonate top housing, which is a stiffer plastic material. This lends itself to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, enhancing clarity and resonance. Additionally, the polycarbonate top housing is especially suitable for RGB lighting due to its translucency.
The bottom housings of the Ayara and the Strawberry also differ in material composition and resulting sound profiles. The Ayara's nylon bottom housing, similar to its top housing, provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. This results in a duller and rounder sound when pressing down on the switch. Conversely, the Strawberry's polycarbonate bottom housing, being a relatively stiffer plastic, gives rise to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, contributing to the overall typing experience.
If a switch features different top and bottom housings, the qualities associated with each housing material will be distributed between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on a switch with this configuration, the qualities of the bottom housing will be felt, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing will have a more noticeable impact on the sound when releasing a key. This distinction allows for a more nuanced typing experience, with the different housing materials contributing to the overall sound profile and tactile feedback of the switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, there are a few notable differences. Firstly, the exact actuation force of the Ayara switch is unavailable, while the Strawberry switch has an actuation force of 43 grams. In terms of bottom out force, both switches share the same amount of 62 grams, which is considered medium.
Weight is an important consideration when choosing a switch, as it can greatly impact typing comfort and endurance. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Strawberry switch with its 43-gram actuation force would be a suitable choice. This lighter force allows for longer typing sessions without causing excessive strain on the fingers. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience and enjoy the feeling of a stronger push would lean towards the Ayara switch. Although the exact actuation force is unknown, it is safe to assume it would be higher than 43 grams, providing a more robust and tactile feedback.
Ultimately, the decision between these two switches would depend on personal preference and typing style. If a lighter and smoother typing experience is desired, the Strawberry switch would be the better option. However, for those who crave a more forceful and substantial feel while typing, the Ayara switch, with its higher actuation force, would be the ideal choice. In either case, both switches offer the same bottom out force, resulting in a similar typing experience at the end of each keystroke.
Travel distance
Both the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key, both switches will provide a similar tactile feedback and sense of movement. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of the travel distance experienced when using either of these switches.
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 KTT Strawberry comes in at $4.91 per 10 switches.
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 Ayara linear switch has a neutral sound profile. This means that it produces a moderate and balanced sound when pressed. It is neither too deep nor too high-pitched, making it suitable for most purposes. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry linear switch has a low-pitched sound profile. This gives it a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. If you prefer a switch with a deeper and mellower sound, the Strawberry switch would be a better choice. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be affected by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps you choose to use.
In terms of feel, the Ayara switch offers a polished typing experience. This means that it has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Typing on the Ayara switch feels sleek and effortless. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry switch is described as frictionless, silky, and buttery. These descriptors indicate that the Strawberry switch offers an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience. It minimizes any sense of resistance or friction when pressing the keys, providing a fluid and uniform typing sensation. Both switches provide a high level of typing comfort, but the Strawberry switch may have a slight edge in terms of smoothness.
Considering all the available information, the Ayara linear switch is best suited for those who prefer a hearty and satisfying typing experience. With its medium heftness, it offers a soft bottom-out feel and a perfectly clacky sound profile. It provides a balanced sound and a polished typing feel with reduced friction. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry linear switch is loved for its smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance. It has a low-pitched sound profile, making it ideal for those who enjoy a deeper and mellower tone. The Strawberry switch offers a frictionless, silky, and buttery typing experience, providing exceptional smoothness and effortless key travel. Overall, if you are looking for a switch with a focus on hearty typing and clacky sound, the Ayara switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a smoother feel and a deeper sound, the KTT Strawberry switch would be a fantastic option.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch offer unique features and advantages for keyboard enthusiasts.
To sum up, the Ayara switch is best suited for those who prefer a more hearty typing experience. With its medium bottom-out force of 62 grams, it provides a satisfying and tactile feel. Additionally, the Ayara switch offers a soft bottom-out feel and produces a perfectly clacky sound profile, which can enhance the typing experience.
On the other hand, the Strawberry switch is perfect for those who prioritize smoothness and comfort. Despite also having a bottom-out force of 62 grams, the Strawberry switch offers a frictionless, silky, and buttery typing experience. Its low-pitched sound profile adds a more bass-heavy and mellow tone to the typing sound, which some users may find more pleasing.
Ultimately, your choice between the two switches should depend on your preferences for typing feel and sound. If you enjoy a more hearty and clacky typing experience, the Ayara switch would be an excellent choice. However, if you value smoothness and comfort above all else, the Strawberry switch would be the better option for you.
Bringing it all together, both the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch provide their own unique benefits. Consider your personal typing preferences and priorities when making your decision, and you're sure to find the perfect switch for your mechanical keyboard setup. Happy typing!
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