SP-Star Ayara vs. Gazzew U4
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the Gazzew U4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, finding the right one for your typing preferences is essential. Two popular choices that offer unique experiences are the SP-Star Ayara, a linear switch, and the Gazzew U4, a tactile switch. The Ayara switches are best suited for those who enjoy a satisfying and robust typing experience. With a medium heft and a soft bottom-out feel, typing on the Ayara switches provides a clacky sound profile that adds to the overall enjoyment. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 switches offer a different tactile experience. They deliver a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, providing a tactile feedback that many typists appreciate. Additionally, the U4 switches offer a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation, elevating the typing experience even more. Furthermore, the U4 switches have a whisper-quiet sound profile, making them ideal for those who prefer a more subdued typing experience. However, let's dive deeper beyond these general characteristics, so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Two-stage
Spring
Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the Gazzew U4 exhibit some similarities and differences. Both switches utilize a soft plastic material for their housing to enhance the sound profile. The Ayara's nylon top housing and the U4's proprietary Gazzew blend top housing both deliver a rich and deep sound profile due to their softness. This similarity suggests that typing on either switch will provide a satisfying auditory experience.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Ayara features a nylon material, while the U4 incorporates its unique Gazzew blend. The nylon bottom housing of the Ayara creates a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. On the other hand, the U4's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, sometimes referred to as "boba plastic," guarantees a similar rich and deep sound profile as the top housing due to its softness.
Considering the impact on sound and feel, the bottom housing plays a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. It seems that the Ayara's nylon bottom housing may enhance the duller and rounder sound when letting go of a key, while the Gazzew U4's proprietary blend bottom housing would likely contribute to a similar effect. Overall, while the specific housing materials differ between the SP-Star Ayara and the Gazzew U4, their softness contributes to a satisfying typing experience with a rich and deep sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, their actuation force and bottom out force should be taken into consideration. The Ayara switch unfortunately has an unavailable actuation force measurement. However, it has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is considered medium. On the other hand, the U4 switch has an actuation force of 43 grams, making it lighter than the Ayara. However, both switches share the same bottom out force of 62 grams, indicating a similar typing experience in terms of bottoming out. The weight of the switches is worth considering, as some individuals prefer lighter switches for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others prefer a heavier push for a more robust typing experience. Thus, those looking for a lighter switch may lean towards the Gazzew U4, while those desiring a stronger push feel may opt for options with heavier forces, such as the Ayara if its actuation force becomes available.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gazzew U4 tactile switch has a slightly shorter distance of 3.6 mm. The Ayara's 4.0 mm travel distance is in line with the traditional range, providing a standard feel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the U4's 3.6 mm travel distance offers a slightly shallower experience. This shorter travel distance is popular among gamers who prioritize faster response times. Choosing the shorter distance can provide a more responsive feel. However, for those who prefer a deeper, more substantial keypress, opting for the switch with the longer travel distance may be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
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 Gazzew U4 comes in at $6.50 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
In terms of sound, the Ayara linear switch offers a medium-pitched sound profile, which produces a moderate and satisfying clack when pressed. This makes the switch suitable for various environments, whether you are a beginner or an advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or at work. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch provides a muted sound that is whisper quiet. It produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches, making it ideal for those who prefer a more subtle typing experience. While the Ayara has a higher-pitched sound, the U4 offers a low-pitched, bass-heavy, and mellow tone. Keep in mind that the sound of the switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Ayara linear switch offers a polished typing experience with its smooth and refined finish. This results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, allowing for a sleek typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch provides a sharp tactile bump that is felt distinctly with each keypress. It offers a high feedback intensity, providing a satisfying and exhilarating typing experience.
Considering all the available information, the Ayara linear switch is best suited for those who prefer a hearty and clacky typing experience, with its medium actuation force and moderate sound profile. It offers a polished and smooth feel, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is perfect for those who seek a more subtle and whisper quiet typing experience. It provides a sharp tactile bump and a plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation. Both switches offer unique qualities, giving users the option to choose based on their personal preferences. Overall, if you are looking for a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel, you can expect similar results from the Ayara linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch.
Conclusion
In closing, if you prefer a hearty typing experience with a soft bottom-out feel and a perfectly clacky sound profile, the SP-Star Ayara linear switches would be the ideal choice for you. These switches have a medium bottom-out force of 62 grams and provide a neutral sound profile, suitable for various purposes. Additionally, the Ayara switches offer a polished feel, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience.
On the other hand, if you are looking for a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, along with an unexpectedly plush and felt-like bottom-out sensation, the Gazzew U4 tactile switches would be the perfect fit. With a medium bottom-out force of 62 grams, these switches produce a muted and low-pitched sound, providing a quieter typing experience. Moreover, the U4 switches have a sharp tactile feedback, making each keypress distinct and intense.
Ultimately, the choice between the Ayara and the U4 switches depends on your personal preferences. Whether you prioritize a clacky sound and a polished feel or a muted sound with a sharp tactile bump, both switches offer unique features that cater to different typing styles and preferences. Happy typing!
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