SP-Star Ayara vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the SP-Star Ayara and Gateron Type A mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique features that cater to specific preferences. The Ayara is renowned for its medium weight and hearty typing experience, providing a soft bottom-out feel and a clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Type A from Sillyworks' "Project Rehash" offers a different experience with innovative travel distances and factory lubing techniques, appealing to those seeking a medium-weight switch with a deeper sound signature. While the Ayara boasts a high-pitched and polished sound profile, the Type A leans towards a more subdued tone. 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
55g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Two-stage
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the SP-Star Ayara and the Gateron Type A utilize nylon as their top and bottom housing material, resulting in a similar deep and full sound profile when typing. The softer nature of nylon allows for sound absorption, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to switches made with harder plastics. This common housing material choice in both switches highlights the importance of sound profile in the typing experience.
While both switches share the same nylon housing material, the differences in their design and construction may lead to variations in sound and feel. The split qualities between the top and bottom housing in a switch can affect the overall typing experience. The impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel, versus the top housing's influence on the sound when releasing a key, may vary between the SP-Star Ayara and the Gateron Type A. These differences in the distribution of housing material qualities could result in distinct typing sensations between the two switches.
Despite the potential variations in sound and feel due to differences in design, the use of nylon as the housing material for both the SP-Star Ayara and the Gateron Type A ensures a comparable typing experience. The consistent qualities of nylon, such as its ability to produce a deep and full sound profile, will remain evident in both switches. Ultimately, while there may be subtle differences in the impact of the housing materials on typing feel, the shared material choice guarantees a similar overall sound experience for users of either switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, it is clear that the Ayara has a lower actuation force compared to the Type A, which requires 50 grams to actuate. The Ayara switch does not have a specified actuation force but does have a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is slightly higher than the Type A's bottom out force of 55 grams. Both switches fall within the medium range in terms of bottom out force, but the Ayara may provide a slightly heavier typing experience. The Type A, on the other hand, offers a lighter actuation force, making it more ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch when typing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the SP-Star Ayara and the Gateron Type A linear switches have a travel distance of 4mm, making them exactly the same in this aspect. When comparing and contrasting the travel distance of these two switches, it is apparent that they offer the same keypress experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. This means that whether you choose the SP-Star Ayara or the Gateron Type A linear switch, you can expect similar results when it comes to key feel and travel distance. Overall, both switches provide a consistent typing experience with a 4mm travel distance.
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 Type A comes in at $4.70 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 SP-Star Ayara linear switch is known for its neutral sound profile with a perfectly clacky tone, while the Gateron Type A linear switch offers a more subdued sound, leaning towards the deeper side of the spectrum. Both switches are considered neutral in their actuation force requirements, making them suitable for most intents and purposes. The choice of sound ultimately depends on personal preference, with the Ayara providing a high-pitched and crisp sound, and the Type A offering a more dampened and subtle auditory experience.
In terms of feel, the Ayara linear switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Unfortunately, information on the feel of the Gateron Type A linear switch is unavailable.
Overall, both the SP-Star Ayara and Gateron Type A linear switches offer different sound profiles, with the Ayara providing a clacky and high-pitched tone, while the Type A offers a deeper and more subdued sound. The feel of the Ayara is described as polished, ensuring a smooth typing experience. Depending on your personal preferences for sound and typing feel, you can achieve similar results with either switch. Remember to consider your choice of keyboard and keycaps as they also play a significant role in the overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing experience. If you prefer a medium heft in your switches and enjoy a soft bottom-out feel with a clacky sound profile, the Ayara switches would be a great choice for you. However, if you are looking for a medium-light switch with a sound signature leaning towards the deeper side of the spectrum, the Gateron Type A switches might be more suitable for your typing needs. Consider your typing style, sound preference, and bottom-out force preference when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, the choice is yours based on what feels best for your typing experience.
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