SP-Star Ayara vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a wide variety of options available to suit different preferences and needs. Two popular switches worth comparing and contrasting are the SP-Star Ayara, a linear switch, and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile, a tactile switch. The Ayara switches are best known for their medium heftiness, making them the perfect choice for those who prefer a hearty typing experience. These linear switches provide a soft bottom-out feel and emit a satisfyingly clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile switches by Wuque are designed with the office and work environment in mind. These tactile switches strike a delicate balance between tactility and noise reduction. They feature innovative stem railings with small cutouts, effectively minimizing switch sound while delivering a crisp bottom-out and responsive return. Unlike conventional silent switches, the WS Silent Tactile switches forgo the use of silicone dampeners, resulting in a typing experience that is devoid of the usual padded feel found in most silent switches. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
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 Tactile are both made of nylon, which is considered a classic switch housing material. Typing on switches that use nylon elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile in both cases. This is because nylon, being a relatively softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of sound.
However, a key difference lies in the distribution of these housing materials. In the case of the Ayara, the nylon top housing and bottom housing are both made of nylon, meaning that the qualities of the housing material are evenly spread throughout the switch. This results in a consistent sound profile throughout the entire keypress, whether you are pressing down on the key or letting go.
On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile has separate nylon top and bottom housings. This means that the qualities of the housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. When you press down on a key, you will feel the impact of the nylon bottom housing, which has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the nylon top housing will have a stronger impact on the sound when you let go of a key. This divided distribution of the housing materials may result in a slightly different typing experience compared to the Ayara.
In conclusion, while both the Ayara and the WS Silent Tactile utilize nylon as the main housing material, the way it is distributed in the switches is what sets them apart. The Ayara offers a consistent sound profile throughout the keypress, while the WS Silent Tactile has a more distinct separation in sound between pressing down and letting go of a key. Both switches, however, will offer a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the sound-absorbing properties of nylon.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch, it is important to note that the exact actuation force is unavailable for both switches. However, the Ayara has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is considered medium, while the WS Silent Tactile has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, leaning towards the medium-heavy range.
Considering weight, some individuals prefer lighter switches as it allows them to type for longer periods of time without experiencing fatigue. This lightweight characteristic makes them suitable for keyboards used at work or during long gaming sessions. On the other hand, there are those who enjoy a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. For these individuals, choosing options with heavier actuation forces would be more suitable.
In terms of actuation force, since the exact values are unknown for both switches, it is difficult to compare them. However, given that the Ayara has a bottom out force of 62 grams while the WS Silent Tactile has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 63.5 grams, it can be inferred that the WS Silent Tactile may have a slightly higher actuation force as well.
In conclusion, the Ayara and WS Silent Tactile switches have similar medium actuation forces, with the WS Silent Tactile leaning towards the medium-heavy range. While the actuation forces cannot be compared precisely, the WS Silent Tactile may provide a slightly stronger push feel due to its higher bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on an individual's preference for lighter or heavier typing experiences.
Travel distance
The SP-Star Ayara linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer of the two switches mentioned. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Ayara falls into the category of the more traditional travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the WS Silent Tactile offers a slightly shallower travel distance. This distinction can be significant for different users depending on their preferences. Gamers, for instance, may favor the shorter travel distance of the WS Silent Tactile switch as it allows for faster response times. In contrast, those who prefer a more substantial feel may opt for the Ayara with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches hinges on personal preferences regarding responsiveness and depth.
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 Tactile 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
The Ayara linear switch is best known for its hearty typing experience with a soft bottom-out feel and a clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile tactile switch strikes a delicate balance between tactility and noise reduction. It offers a satisfyingly crisp bottom-out and responsive return, while maintaining an impressively silent profile. Unlike most silent switches, the WS Silent Tactile forgoes the use of silicone dampeners, resulting in a typing experience that is devoid of the usual padded feel found in most silent switches, creating a unique blend of tranquility and tactility.
In terms of sound, the Ayara has a neutral sound profile that falls within the moderate range. It provides a moderate sound that is suitable for most intents and purposes, whether it be for beginners or advanced users, and can be used at home or in a work environment. Additionally, it has a high-pitched sound that produces a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile also has a neutral sound profile, but it is described as muted. It produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches, effectively minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards.
When it comes to feel, the Ayara switch provides a polished experience with a smooth and refined finish. This results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile switch offers an invigorating feel with pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. It falls into the category of accented switches, providing a medium amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. Additionally, it is also described as mild, offering a more gentle typing experience that stands in a safe middle-ground zone.
In conclusion, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch differ in their subjective qualities. The Ayara provides a hearty typing experience with a clacky sound profile and a polished feel. On the other hand, the WS Silent Tactile strikes a balance between tactility and noise reduction, offering a silent profile with a satisfyingly crisp bottom-out. If you prefer a medium level of tactility and noise reduction, the WS Silent Tactile is a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a more pronounced tactile feel and a clacky sound, the Ayara would be a better option. As always, the choice ultimately depends on personal preference and the specific typing experience one is looking for.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you prefer a hearty typing experience and a clacky sound profile, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch would be an excellent choice. With its medium bottom out force of 62 grams, it offers a satisfyingly firm feel while typing. Additionally, the Ayara switch produces a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users, whether at home or in a work environment. Moreover, the Ayara switch is described as having a polished feel, providing smooth key travel and reduced friction.
On the other hand, if you value a balance between tactility and noise reduction, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Tactile tactile switch is the way to go. With a slightly higher bottom out force of 63.5 grams, this switch offers a medium-heavy typing experience. The WS Silent Tactile switch is designed to strike a delicate balance between providing tactile feedback and minimizing switch sound. Unlike conventional silent switches that use silicone dampeners, these switches offer a typing experience devoid of the padded feel typically associated with silent switches. In terms of sound, the WS Silent Tactile switch produces a muted sound profile, ideal for those seeking a softer and quieter typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the Ayara and WS Silent Tactile switches depends on your personal preferences. If you prefer a heavier and clackier feel, along with a neutral sound profile, the Ayara switch is the better option. However, if you prioritize a balance between tactility and noise reduction, with a slightly higher bottom out force, the WS Silent Tactile switch would be the more suitable choice. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, ensuring an enjoyable mechanical keyboard experience.
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