SP-Star Ayara vs. Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The SP-Star Ayara and Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique experiences for keyboard enthusiasts. The Ayara switch is best suited for those who enjoy a solid and robust typing experience. With medium heftness, it provides a satisfying bottom-out feel and a distinct clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switch from Wuque Studio excels in delivering an immersive and engaging typing journey. Its remarkable tactile bump, with a force of 70g, offers a satisfying resistance with every keystroke. Additionally, the nylon housings of the WS Heavy Tactile switch contribute to a "thocky" resonance, enhancing the auditory feedback. While these general attributes highlight the distinctive qualities of each switch, let's dive deeper into their specific characteristics to help you make the best choice for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Two-stage
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile share many similarities. Both switches utilize nylon as their top and bottom housing material, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. Nylon is known for its ability to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, creating a softer and rounder sound. This characteristic of nylon housing contributes to a more pleasing typing experience for both switches.
However, it is important to note that if the top and bottom housings differ for a particular switch, the qualities of each housing material will be divided between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on a switch, the characteristics of the bottom housing material come into play, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. Therefore, the Ayara and WS Heavy Tactile may differ slightly in this aspect, as the specific details of their bottom housings may vary.
Additionally, the top housing material has more influence on the sound produced when a key is released. Although both switches utilize nylon for their top housing, slight variations in design and thickness may contribute to distinct sound profiles when keys are let go. These nuances in the top housing material can further differentiate the SP-Star Ayara and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile in terms of the sound they produce after key release.
In summary, the SP-Star Ayara and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile share the classic switch housing material of nylon, resulting in similar benefits such as a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. However, minor differences in their bottom housing design may impact the bottom-out sound and feel. Similarly, variations in the top housing may lead to slight variations in the sound produced when lifting a key. These subtle distinctions contribute to the overall typing experience and allow individuals to choose between the two switches based on their preferences for specific sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, we find some notable differences. Starting with the actuation force, unfortunately, the exact grams for both switches are unavailable. However, we can assume that they are different since they are not listed as the same. Moving on to the bottom out force, the Ayara switch has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is considered medium. In contrast, the WS Heavy Tactile switch has a lower bottom out force of 45 grams, making it lighter.
Considering weight is important for various reasons. Some individuals prefer lighter switches as it allows them to type for extended periods without fatigue. This is particularly beneficial for those who use their keyboards extensively at work or engage in long gaming sessions. On the other hand, there are users who enjoy a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Such individuals would likely prefer switches with heavier forces.
In the case of the Ayara and WS Heavy Tactile switches, the Ayara switch is heavier in terms of bottom out force, providing a more pronounced typing experience. Conversely, the WS Heavy Tactile switch offers a lighter bottom out force, allowing for extended typing sessions without strain. Although the exact actuation forces are unknown, we can assume that they vary between the two switches. Despite this uncertainty, it is clear that the two switches provide different experiences due to their distinct bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, we can see that the Ayara has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the WS Heavy Tactile has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. These measurements show that the WS Heavy Tactile offers a more shallow travel distance compared to the more traditional 4 mm of the Ayara.
In terms of preference, shorter travel distances have become prevalent, especially among gamers who value faster response times. The shorter distance allows for quicker actuation, making it ideal for gaming scenarios where speed is key. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt or lacking in depth. For those who prefer a more hearty pressing experience, the Ayara with its longer travel distance would be a better choice.
Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on personal preference and intended use. Both the Ayara and the WS Heavy Tactile offer different travel distances, allowing individuals to select the option that aligns with their 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 Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile comes in at $3.50 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
The Ayara linear switch is known for having a soft bottom-out feel when typing, which provides a gentle and smooth typing experience. Additionally, it produces a perfectly clacky sound profile that is neutral in pitch. The WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, on the other hand, offers a profound and pronounced tactile bump with a satisfying resistance of 70g. This creates an engaging and immersive typing journey. In terms of sound, the WS Heavy Tactile switch produces a clacky, resonant, and high-pitched sound profile, contributing to a satisfying auditory feedback with each keystroke.
When comparing the subjective qualities of these two switches, it is clear that they offer different experiences in both sound and feel. The Ayara switch provides a soft bottom-out feel and a neutral clacky sound, while the WS Heavy Tactile switch offers a pronounced tactile feedback and a clacky, resonant, high-pitched sound profile. Therefore, if you prefer a softer and neutral typing experience with a clacky sound, the Ayara switch would be a suitable choice. If, however, you enjoy a more tactile and engaging typing experience with a distinct sound, the WS Heavy Tactile switch would be a better option. Both switches offer their unique qualities, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a hearty typing experience with a soft bottom-out feel and a clacky sound profile, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch is a great choice. These switches have a medium bottom out force of 62 grams, providing a satisfying resistance without being too heavy. They also offer a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for a variety of purposes. On the other hand, if you're looking for a truly immersive and engaging typing journey, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch is the way to go. With a bottom out force of 45 grams, these switches are lighter and provide a profound and pronounced tactile bump. The Wuque Heavy Tactile Switches also offer a captivating sound profile, described as clacky and resonant. Overall, your selection should be based on your preference for typing experience, sound profile, and bottom out force.
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