SP-Star Ayara vs. Wuque Studio WS Morandi
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options stand out for their unique features and characteristics. The SP-Star Ayara, a linear switch, offers a hearty typing experience with its medium heftiness. This switch provides a soft bottom-out feel and a perfectly clacky sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Morandi, also a linear switch, combines innovation with visual aesthetics. With its ultra-smooth feel and a light-diffusing column, these switches enhance RGB visuals, creating a mesmerizing effect. The WS Morandi switches feature a unique dry and airy smoothness due to the UPE stem, distinguishing them from the creamy feel of factory-lubed switches. They offer a slightly more muted sound profile, adding to their overall appeal. Both switches have their merits, enticing different preferences and needs. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
UPE
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Two-stage
Spring
18mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi, particularly in their top housings, offer distinct differences in sound profiles. The Ayara's nylon top housing, being a softer plastic, contributes to a deeper and fuller sound when typing on the switch. Additionally, the nylon material absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In comparison, the WS Morandi's POM top housing also produces a pleasing and unique sound, albeit on the deeper side and relatively more muted. Despite these differences, both top housings provide a similar effect in creating a deeper sound experience.
Likewise, the bottom housings of the Ayara and the WS Morandi showcase varying characteristics. The nylon bottom housing of the Ayara, similar to its top housing, contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of the nylon material allows for increased sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switch. Conversely, the POM bottom housing of the WS Morandi also produces a captivating and distinctive sound profile, with a deeper tone and relative muting. The bottom housing has a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, showcasing the unique qualities of each housing material.
When comparing the impact of the top and bottom housings on the overall sound experience, it becomes evident that these materials subtly shape different aspects. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, providing a key factor in the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the top housing plays a more prominent role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Although the materials of the top and bottom housings differ for each switch, they both contribute to the overall sound profile, showcasing distinctions unique to their respective material compositions.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch, one key difference lies in their actuation force and bottom out force. Unfortunately, the actuation force for both switches is unavailable, making it difficult to directly compare them. However, both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the Ayara having 62 grams and the WS Morandi having 60 grams. This means that when typing on either switch, you can expect a similar level of resistance before reaching the bottom of the key press.
Considering weight is important for different preferences. Some people prefer lighter switches as it allows them to type for longer periods without fatigue, making it ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, some prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. These individuals may lean towards options with heavier forces. In this case, it is difficult to determine which switch is lighter or heavier as the actuation force is not disclosed. However, both switches can provide a satisfactory typing experience depending on individual preferences.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch is 4.0mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5mm. Therefore, the Ayara has a longer travel distance compared to the WS Morandi. The Ayara's 4.0mm travel distance falls into the traditional range, providing a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the WS Morandi's 3.5mm travel distance is slightly shorter, making it more suitable for gamers or individuals seeking faster response times. The shorter travel distance of the WS Morandi offers a more responsive touch, which can be advantageous in gaming scenarios. However, some individuals may find short travel distances too abrupt and prefer the hearty depth provided by the longer travel distance of the Ayara. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and desired typing 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 Morandi has an MSRP of $4.30 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Morandi for $3.90.
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 switch is known for its pleasant clacky sound profile. This makes it a suitable choice for those who enjoy a moderate sound when typing. On the other hand, the WS Morandi switch has a more muted sound profile, creating a slightly quieter typing experience. It is described as subdued, which means it produces a dampened sound when pressed. Furthermore, the WS Morandi switch is also thocky, meaning it has a deep and satisfying sound. Overall, if you prefer a clacky sound, go for the Ayara switch, while if you prefer a more subdued and thocky sound, the WS Morandi switch is a great option.
In terms of feel, the Ayara switch is described as polished, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. This is achieved through reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the WS Morandi switch offers a buttery and creamy typing experience. It provides a seamless, effortless, and uniform sensation when typing, as if your fingers effortlessly melt into each keystroke. Additionally, the WS Morandi switch is also silky, enhancing the overall smoothness of the typing feel and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. If you prefer a polished and refined feel, the Ayara switch is the way to go, but if you desire a buttery and silky typing experience, the WS Morandi switch will fulfill your needs.
Taking all the available information into account, the Ayara and WS Morandi switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ayara switch provides a clacky sound profile and a polished feel, making it suitable for those who enjoy a hearty typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Morandi switch offers a more muted sound profile, with hints of thockiness, and a buttery, creamy, and silky feel. This switch combines innovation with visual aesthetics, enhancing RGB visuals with a mesmerizing effect. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference in terms of sound and feel. However, it is important to remember that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you prefer a hearty typing experience and enjoy a soft bottom-out feel with a clacky sound profile, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you value visual aesthetics and innovation, the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch would be a great option. These switches feature a light-diffusing column that enhances RGB visuals, and their unique dry, airy, and wispy smoothness provides a distinct typing experience. The Ayara has a neutral sound profile with high-pitched characteristics, while the WS Morandi offers a more subdued and low-pitched sound. In terms of feel, the Ayara has a polished finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience, while the WS Morandi provides a buttery, creamy, and silky smooth keystroke sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on whether you prioritize typing experience or visual aesthetics, and whether you prefer a clacky sound or a more muted sound.
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