SP-Star Ayara vs. PH Studio Yoel
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the PH Studio Yoel switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the SP-Star Ayara linear switch to the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, both switches offer unique typing experiences that cater to different preferences. The Ayara is praised for its medium heftiness, providing a hearty typing experience with a soft bottom-out feel and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Yoel by PH Studio offers a chewy typing experience with a bright and clacky sound profile that resonates satisfyingly upon bottoming out. While both switches have their own strengths and characteristics, such as the polished feel of the Ayara and the creamy, marbly, and silky attributes of the Yoel, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
53g
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
3.20 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Two-stage
Spring
Single stage lengthened 20mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the PH Studio Yoel are quite distinct in terms of the sound profiles they create. The Ayara's nylon top housing produces a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature, which absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Yoel's polycarbonate top housing is stiffer, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While the Ayara's nylon bottom housing also contributes to a deeper and fuller sound, the Yoel's POM bottom housing offers a more unique sound profile that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted.
Despite the differences in sound profiles created by the housing materials of the Ayara and the Yoel, both switches share the commonality of utilizing quality materials to enhance the overall typing experience. The Ayara's nylon top and bottom housings, while creating a deeper sound profile, offer a classic switch housing material known for its sound-absorbing qualities. Similarly, the Yoel's polycarbonate top and POM bottom housings provide a sharper and deeper sound profile, respectively, contributing to a satisfying typing experience. Both switches demonstrate the importance of housing materials in determining sound characteristics and overall feel.
Ultimately, the choice between the housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the PH Studio Yoel will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing experience. Whether you prefer the deeper, fuller sound of the Ayara's nylon housing or the sharper, crisper sound of the Yoel's polycarbonate housing, both switches offer quality materials that enhance the overall typing feel. Regardless of the differences in sound profile, both switches prioritize creating a pleasant typing experience through the use of high-quality housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Ayara linear switch to the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, it is evident that the Ayara has a bottom out force of 62 grams, while the Yoel has a bottom out force of 60 grams. This indicates that the Ayara requires a slightly heavier force to press down completely compared to the Yoel. In terms of actuation force, the Yoel has a force of 53 grams, while the Ayara's actuation force is unspecified. Therefore, the Yoel requires a lighter force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Ayara. Overall, the Ayara may provide a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force, while the Yoel may be preferred for longer typing sessions due to its lighter actuation force. Both switches fall into the category of medium force switches, offering a balance between typing comfort and tactile feedback.
Travel distance
The SP-Star Ayara linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the PH Studio Yoel linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm. This means that the Ayara has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Yoel. The Ayara's 4 mm travel distance falls in the more traditional range, offering a balance between responsiveness and depth when typing. On the other hand, the Yoel's 3.2 mm travel distance is shallower, making it preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. Both switches provide a different typing experience due to their varying travel distances, so the choice between the two will ultimately come down to personal preference in terms of key feel and responsiveness.
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 PH Studio Yoel has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yoel for $4.10.
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 SP-Star Ayara linear switch provides a neutral sound profile with a soft bottom-out feel, making it suitable for a variety of users and environments. On the other hand, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch offers a bright and clacky sound profile with a satisfying resonance at the bottom-out point. The Yoel may be preferred by those who enjoy a more pronounced and percussive sound while typing. Both switches have high-pitched qualities, but the Ayara's sound is described as more neutral, whereas the Yoel is characterized as clacky and resonant.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Ayara is noted for its polished finish, resulting in a sleek and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Yoel, on the other hand, offers a creamy and polished feel, allowing fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys with a silky sensation. Both switches provide a smooth typing experience due to their polished finishes, but the Yoel may appeal more to those who prefer a buttery feel when typing.
Overall, if you are looking for a switch with a hearty typing experience and a soft bottom-out feel, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a delectably chewy typing experience with a bright and clacky sound profile, the PH Studio Yoel linear switch could be more to your liking. Keep in mind that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choosing between the two would depend on your personal typing preferences and desired sound profile.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the PH Studio Yoel linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a hearty typing experience with a soft bottom-out feel and clacky sound profile, the Ayara switch with its medium bottom out force of 62 grams may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a chewy typing experience with a bright, clacky sound profile and a slightly lower bottom out force of 60 grams, the Yoel switch might be more suited to your liking. Both switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, so ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences and typing style.
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