SP-Star Ayara vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options with unique features and benefits are the SP-Star Ayara and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches. The Ayara switches are best known for their medium heftiness, providing a hearty typing experience for those who prefer a bit of weight behind their keystrokes. With a soft bottom-out feel and a clacky sound profile, these switches offer a satisfying sensation while typing. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switches by Wuque elevate your office and work experience by reducing switch noise with ingeniously designed stem railings and discreet cutouts, resulting in unparalleled responsiveness and a satisfying bottom-out, all without the use of silicone dampeners typically found in traditional silent switches. While the Ayara switches boast a neutral, high-pitched, polished sound profile, the WS Silent Linear switches offer a neutral, mild, muted, subdued sound profile. These generalities may help guide your decision, but let's dive deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your individual typing preferences and 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
3.50 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
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches share some similarities. Both switches utilize nylon as their top and bottom housing materials. Nylon is known to create a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, both switches provide a similar typing experience in terms of sound.
However, when it comes to the impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, the differences between the top and bottom housing materials become apparent. In the Ayara switch, the qualities of the bottom housing material play a more significant role. This means that when pressing down on the Ayara switch, the bottom housing material will influence the sound and feel of the keypress. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switch places more emphasis on the top housing. As a result, the sound when releasing a key will be affected to a greater extent by the top housing material.
In summary, both the SP-Star Ayara and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches provide comparable sound profiles due to their utilization of nylon as the housing material in both the top and bottom parts. However, the Ayara switch focuses more on the bottom housing's impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the WS Silent Linear switch emphasizes the influence of the top housing on the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both switches deliver a satisfying typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, we find some similarities and differences. Unfortunately, the exact actuation forces for both switches are unavailable. However, we know that the Ayara has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is considered medium. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, making it slightly heavier at a medium-heavy level.
Considering weight, some individuals prefer lighter switches for extended typing or gaming sessions, as it allows them to type for longer periods without fatigue. In such cases, the lighter option would be more suitable. However, for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, opting for switches with heavier forces would be ideal.
In summary, while we do not have the specific actuation forces for these switches, their bottom out forces indicate that the Ayara is lighter at medium weight, while the WS Silent Linear is slightly heavier at a medium-heavy level. Hence, individuals seeking a lighter typing experience may find the Ayara more suitable, and those preferring a stronger push feel may lean towards the WS Silent Linear.
Travel distance
The SP-Star Ayara linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Ayara's travel distance is considered more traditional, providing a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which can be preferred by gamers looking for quicker response times. The shorter travel distance allows for a more responsive typing experience. However, for those who prefer a more substantial key press, the Ayara's longer travel distance may be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences and the 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 Silent Linear comes in at $4.20 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 switch is known for its neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement. It has a perfectly clacky sound that some users find satisfying. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch offers a more muted and subdued sound. It is designed to minimize noise and offers a softer and quieter typing experience. While the Ayara switch has a high-pitched sound, the WS Silent Linear switch is specifically designed to reduce switch noise without the use of silicone dampeners. Overall, if you prefer a sharper and crisper sound, the Ayara switch is a good choice. If you prefer a quieter and more peaceful typing experience, the WS Silent Linear switch is the way to go.
In terms of feel, the Ayara switch offers a polished typing experience with a smooth and refined finish. This means that it has reduced friction and smooth key travel, resulting in a sleek typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switch offers a more mild and gentle typing experience. It falls in a safe middle-ground zone, making it approachable for most users. Both switches offer a satisfying bottom-out feel, but the Ayara switch's polish provides a sleeker typing experience compared to the WS Silent Linear switch.
In conclusion, the SP-Star Ayara and Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Ayara switch provides a clacky sound profile and a polished typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a hearty typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switch offers a more muted and subdued sound, along with a mild and gentle typing experience. Depending on your personal preference, you can choose the switch that suits your needs. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. If you prefer a quieter typing experience, both switches can provide similar results, but the WS Silent Linear offers the added benefit of reducing switch noise without the use of silicone dampeners.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are someone who enjoys a hearty typing experience and appreciates a clacky sound profile, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. With its medium bottom-out force and polished feel, you can expect a smooth and refined typing experience. On the other hand, if you are looking to elevate your office or work experience and prioritize a quieter typing experience, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch would be a great fit. With its medium-heavy bottom-out force and ingenious design that reduces switch noise, these switches offer unparalleled responsiveness and a satisfying bottom-out without the cushioned sensation typically associated with silent switches. Overall, both switches have a moderate actuation force requirement and offer a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for most intents and purposes. Ultimately, the choice between the Ayara and the WS Silent Linear will depend on your personal preferences and the specific typing experience you are seeking.
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