SP-Star Ayara vs. Wuque Studio WS Onion
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the Wuque Studio WS Onion switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, there are a plethora of options available, each with its own unique characteristics and benefits. Two switches that stand out among the rest are the SP-Star Ayara and the Wuque Studio WS Onion, both being linear switches.
The Ayara switch is renowned for its medium heftiness and is recommended for those who prefer a robust typing experience. Typing on these switches provides a soft bottom-out feel accompanied by a satisfyingly clacky sound profile. Categorized as neutral, high-pitched, and polished, the Ayara switch offers a balanced typing experience suitable for various typing styles.
On the other hand, the WS Onion by Wuque Studio boasts a polycarbonate top housing paired with a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a smooth keystroke feel that is incredibly satisfying. When using these switches, one can expect a crisp and responsive typing experience, accompanied by a neutral sound profile. Categorized as neutral, buttery, and polished, the WS Onion switches offer a pleasurable typing experience that is sure to please discerning typists.
However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision when selecting the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
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
WS CL635 Gold Plated Stainless Spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the Wuque Studio WS Onion differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Ayara utilizes a nylon top housing, which is known for its softness and sound absorption capabilities. This translates into a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches. In contrast, the WS Onion features a polycarbonate top housing, which is stiffer and produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound. Additionally, the polycarbonate material is translucent, making it suitable for switches with RGB lighting. While both materials are suitable for switch housings, the Ayara's nylon top housing creates a duller and rounder sound, while the WS Onion's polycarbonate top housing produces a more clear and resonant sound.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Ayara and the WS Onion utilize nylon for this component. As with the top housing, the nylon material in both switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softness and sound absorption properties. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housing elicits a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. Therefore, despite using different top housing materials, both the Ayara and the WS Onion offer similar sound profiles due to their shared use of nylon for the bottom housing. Pressing down on either switch will allow the qualities of the nylon bottom housing to shine, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel.
In summary, the housing materials in the SP-Star Ayara and Wuque Studio WS Onion switches showcase both differences and similarities. The Ayara's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the WS Onion's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound, especially suitable for RGB lighting. However, when it comes to the bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon, resulting in a similar duller and rounder sound. These differences and similarities highlight how the materials used in the switch's housing can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of typing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, there are a few key differences. The Ayara's actuation force is listed as unavailable, while the WS Onion's actuation force is also noted as unavailable. This means that the actuation force for both switches is unknown, and thus it is difficult to draw a direct comparison in this aspect. However, the bottom out force is measurable for both switches. The Ayara has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is considered medium, while the WS Onion has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which falls into the medium-heavy category.
In terms of weight, it is worth considering personal preferences and use cases. Some individuals may prefer a lighter switch, as it allows them to type for longer periods of time without experiencing fatigue. This can be especially beneficial for individuals who use their keyboards extensively for work or engage in lengthy gaming sessions. On the other hand, there are users who prefer a stronger push feel that provides a more substantial typing experience. For such individuals, choosing switches with heavier forces would be more suitable.
Since the actuation forces are unavailable for both switches, it is difficult to draw a direct comparison in this aspect. However, with the Ayara having a medium bottom out force and the WS Onion having a medium-heavy bottom out force, it can be suggested that the WS Onion would provide a slightly heavier typing experience compared to the Ayara. However, without specific actuation force measurements, it is challenging to precisely determine the differences between the two switches in terms of actuation.
In conclusion, while the Ayara and WS Onion linear switches may have different bottom out forces, the specific actuation forces are unknown. Therefore, it is difficult to draw a direct comparison in terms of actuation. However, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Ayara, while individuals seeking a heavier push feel may opt for the WS Onion. Ultimately, personal preference and typing style will play a significant role in determining the most suitable switch for an individual.
Travel distance
Both the SP-Star Ayara and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. Therefore, pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches will result in a similar tactile experience. The travel distance indicates the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom, which directly affects the sensation felt by the user. Both switches offer a consistent and reliable travel distance, ensuring a comfortable 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 Onion has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Onion for $5.53.
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 has a clacky sound profile, which is characterized by a sharp and crisp noise when pressed. This high-pitched sound can be pleasing to those who prefer a more distinctive auditory feedback. On the other hand, the WS Onion linear switch has a neutral sound profile, producing a moderate sound when pressed. This means that it does not have the same level of sharpness as the Ayara switch, but still offers a satisfying sound experience. It is important to note that the sound of both switches can further be influenced by factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Ayara linear switch provides a soft bottom-out feel during typing. This means that when the keys are fully pressed, there is a cushioning effect that adds comfort to the typing experience. Additionally, the Ayara switch is described as polished, indicating that it has a smooth and refined finish. This results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall sleekness of the typing experience.
Similarly, the WS Onion linear switch is also described as polished, meaning that it also has a smooth and refined finish. This contributes to a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Moreover, the WS Onion switch offers a buttery smooth keystroke feel that is deeply satisfying. This implies that the keystrokes with the WS Onion switch are effortless, fluid, and uniform.
In conclusion, while the Ayara and WS Onion linear switches differ slightly in sound and feel, they both provide a neutral sound profile and a polished switch experience. Therefore, if you are looking for a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel, either of these switches can deliver satisfactory results. However, if you prefer a clacky sound and a soft bottom-out feel, the Ayara switch might be more suitable for you. Conversely, if you prioritize a buttery smooth keystroke feel, the WS Onion switch would be a great choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a hearty typing experience with a soft bottom-out feel and clacky sound profile, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch would be a great choice for you. With its medium bottom out force of 62 grams, it offers a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, if you are looking for a buttery smooth keystroke feel and a crisp, responsive sensation, the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch is ideal. With its slightly higher bottom out force of 63.5 grams, it has a medium-heavy feel. Both switches have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various purposes. Additionally, both switches have a polished finish, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel. Ultimately, the choice between Ayara and WS Onion switches depends on your personal preference for typing experience and the level of bottom-out force that you prefer.
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