SP-Star Ayara vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that stand out are the SP-Star Ayara and the Jwick Taro. The Ayara switch is a linear switch that offers a medium heftiness, making it a great choice for those who prefer a hearty typing experience. With a soft bottom-out feel and a perfectly clacky sound profile, it provides a satisfying typing sensation. On the other hand, the Taro switch is a tactile switch that offers a different typing experience. With a comfy subdued color scheme, it provides a cozy typing experience, coupled with a snappy, medium-level of tactility. The clacks produced by the Taro switch are acute and crisp. While these are the general pointers for each switch, 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
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
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Two-stage
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the SP-Star Ayara and Jwick Taro switches differ in terms of the top housing. The Ayara features a nylon top housing, known for its softer plastic composition and excellent sound absorption. This results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the Ayara switches. In contrast, the Taro utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which offers a stiffer plastic construction. As a result, the Taro switches produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the polycarbonate top housing is translucent, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting.
However, both switches share a common nylon material for their bottom housings. Nylon is renowned as a classic switch housing material for its softness and ability to absorb sound effectively. Consequently, both the Ayara and Taro switches provide a similar experience in terms of the deep and full sound profile generated. The bottom housing, which has more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, contributes to the duller and rounder sound produced by both switches.
In summary, the main difference between the housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the Jwick Taro lies in the top housing. The Ayara's nylon top housing offers a softer plastic composition, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Alternatively, the Taro's polycarbonate top housing delivers a crisper and sharper sound profile, accompanied by its translucent nature for RGB lighting. Nonetheless, both switches share a nylon bottom housing, providing a similar deeper and fuller sound experience due to the material's sound absorption properties.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, there are notable similarities and differences. Starting with the actuation force, unfortunately, the exact gram measurement for both switches is unknown. However, it can be assumed that they are likely within a similar range since both are categorized as medium force switches. This means that users can expect a moderate amount of force to trigger a keystroke on both switches.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Ayara linear switch has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which can be considered medium. This indicates that users will experience a relatively moderate resistance when fully pressing down on the keys. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro tactile switch has a slightly higher bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy. This means that users can expect a slightly firmer and more substantial typing experience with the Taro switch compared to the Ayara switch.
Considering weight, it is worth noting that having lighter switches can be preferred by some individuals. This lighter weight allows for longer typing sessions, making it suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. However, there are also individuals who prefer a stronger push feel for a more robust typing experience. For such individuals, opting for switches with heavier forces can be more suitable.
In summary, while the exact actuation forces of the Ayara and Taro switches are unknown, they are both likely categorized as medium force switches. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Ayara switch is lighter with 62 grams, while the Taro switch is slightly heavier with 67 grams. This distinction in bottom out force allows for a difference in typing experience, with the Taro switch providing a firmer and more substantial feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches would depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, it can be observed that the Ayara has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Taro has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. This means that the Ayara has a longer travel distance compared to the Taro.
A travel distance of 4.0mm is considered to be the most traditional and is widely used in keyboards. On the other hand, a travel distance of 3.7mm is slightly shallower, but still falls within the range of standard keyboard switches.
If you prefer a faster response time, then the shorter travel distance of the Taro may be more suitable for you. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer shorter travel distances as it allows for quicker key presses. However, it is important to note that some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt or lacking in depth.
If you prefer a more substantial depth and a more pronounced tactile feel when pressing down on a key, then the Ayara with its longer travel distance may be a better choice for you. The extra 0.3mm of travel distance can provide a slightly more satisfying keystroke experience for those who enjoy a deeper press.
Overall, the choice between the SP-Star Ayara and Jwick Taro ultimately depends on personal preference and the specific requirements of the user. The Ayara offers a longer travel distance, while the Taro provides a slightly shorter and potentially faster key press.
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 Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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
The subjective qualities of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch can be compared in terms of sound and feel.
For sound, the Ayara switch is best described as having a neutral or high-pitched sound profile. A neutral sound profile means it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound, making it suitable for most purposes. On the other hand, high-pitched switches produce a sharp and crisp sound when pressed, which may appeal to those who prefer a less rich and bassy sound. The sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen. Similarly, the Taro switch is also described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users.
In terms of feel, the Ayara switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience. This smoothness is a result of either the materials used or factory lubing, reducing friction and providing smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Taro switch is described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. This implies a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. Additionally, the Taro switch is also described as stepped, meaning it has a two-stage tactile feel with some pre-travel and/or post-travel.
Overall, both switches offer their own unique qualities. The Ayara switch is known for its medium heftiness and soft bottom-out feel, providing a hearty typing experience. It also has a perfectly clacky sound profile. The Taro switch, on the other hand, offers a cozy typing experience with a snappy, medium-level of tactility. It produces acute and crisp clacks. While the sound of both switches is described as neutral, the Ayara switch has the option for a higher-pitched sound profile if preferred. Both switches provide a smooth typing experience, with the Ayara being polished and the Taro being buttery and stepped. In conclusion, if you are looking for a hearty and clacky linear switch, the Ayara would be a great choice. If you prefer a cozy and tactility experience with acute clacks, the Taro switch would be the one to consider.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a hearty typing experience and enjoy a soft bottom-out feel along with clacky sound, we highly recommend the SP-Star Ayara linear switch. With its medium bottom out force of 62 grams, it provides just the right amount of resistance for a satisfying typing session. Additionally, the Ayara is described as having a polished feel, meaning it has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a cozy typing experience with a snappy, medium-level of tactility and acute clacky sound, the Jwick Taro tactile switch is a great choice. With its slightly heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, it offers a bit more resistance for those who prefer a medium-heavy switch. The Taro is also described as having a buttery feel, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience.
Both switches have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for a variety of purposes and environments. If you prefer a higher-pitched sound, the Ayara switch would be a better option, while both switches have a neutral actuation force requirement.
Ultimately, the choice between the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch depends on your personal preferences. Consider factors such as the typing experience you desire, the level of tactility you prefer, and the sound profile that appeals to you. By considering these factors and the information provided, you'll be able to make an informed decision and choose the switch that best suits your needs.
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