SP-Star Ayara vs. Kailh Box Jade
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the Kailh Box Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that offer different typing experiences are the SP-Star Ayara and the Kailh Box Jade. The Ayara is a linear switch that offers a medium heftiness, making it well-suited for those who prefer a hearty typing experience. Typing on these switches provides a soft bottom-out feel and a perfectly clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Box Jade is a clicky switch that provides a medium-heavy typing experience with a satisfying clicky sound profile and tactility. Users appreciate its crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps while typing. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so that you can best decide on the switch that suits your needs.
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
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Two-stage
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the Kailh Box Jade differ significantly in terms of their sound profiles. The Ayara utilizes a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Box Jade features a polycarbonate top housing, leading to a sharper and crisper sound. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, produces a more clear and resonant sound. While both materials serve the purpose of housing the switch, they deliver distinct auditory experiences.
Moreover, the differences extend to the bottom housings of the two switches. The Ayara employs a nylon bottom housing, similar to its top housing, which also contributes to a deeper and fuller sound. The same rationale applies, where the softer nylon plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a dull and round sound profile. In contrast, the Box Jade employs a nylon bottom housing as well, emphasizing the importance of nylon in delivering a deeper and fuller sound. Both switches, therefore, utilize the same material for the bottom housings, leading to a similar sound experience.
Considering the impact of the housing materials on the overall sound of the switch, it is important to note that if both the top and bottom housings are different, the qualities of each housing material will be split between the top and the bottom. When pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing, whether it is nylon or polycarbonate, will be felt and heard during the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing, whether nylon or polycarbonate, will have more influence on the sound produced when releasing or letting go of a key. This demonstrates how the choice of housing material can affect different aspects of the typing experience and sound produced.
In summary, the SP-Star Ayara and the Kailh Box Jade differ in their housing materials, resulting in contrasting sound profiles. The Ayara's nylon housings elicit a deeper and fuller sound due to their softer plastic and higher sound absorption, whereas the Box Jade's polycarbonate housings generate a sharper and crisper sound, courtesy of their stiffer plastic and clear properties. However, both switches share the use of nylon for their bottom housings, resulting in a similar deep and full sound. The choice of housing material plays a crucial role in dictating the sound experience when pressing down and releasing a key, highlighting the significance of materials in keyboard switches.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch, there are some notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Ayara's actuation force is currently unavailable, making it difficult to draw a direct comparison in this aspect. However, it does have a bottom out force of 62 grams, which can be considered medium. On the other hand, the Box Jade has an actuation force of 50 grams, indicating a lighter touch required to trigger a keystroke. Similarly, its bottom out force is 60 grams, which is also medium.
Weight is an important factor to consider as it can greatly impact the typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Box Jade, as its lower actuation force allows for prolonged typing without causing fatigue. This makes it suitable for use in work settings or long gaming sessions. Alternatively, those seeking a more substantial typing experience may prefer the Ayara, as it may require a slightly stronger push to trigger a keystroke.
While the exact actuation force of the Ayara remains unknown, it is possible that it could offer a comparable experience to the Box Jade if the actuation forces are similar. However, without concrete information on the Ayara's actuation force, it is challenging to make a definitive comparison in this aspect. In terms of bottom out force, both switches fall within the medium range, suggesting a similar feel when fully depressing the keys. Ultimately, the decision between the Ayara and Box Jade will depend on personal preference, with lighter options favored by those typing for extended periods and heavier options favored by those seeking a more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch, the Ayara has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Box Jade has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Ayara falls into the category of the more traditional 4.0 mm travel distance, while the Box Jade offers a slightly shallower depth at 3.6 mm. The shorter travel distance of the Box Jade is advantageous for gamers who prioritize faster response times, as it allows for quicker keystrokes. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press might find the longer travel distance of the Ayara to be more satisfying, as it provides a deeper and more tactile experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for either a shorter and snappier keystroke or a longer and more robust key press.
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 Kailh Box Jade comes in at $5.50 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 Ayara switch offers a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement. This means that whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use these switches at home or work, they will suit your needs. The sound produced by the Ayara switch is described as high-pitched, which gives it a sharp and crisp tone when pressed. On the other hand, the Box Jade switch also has a high-pitched sound profile. This means that if you prefer a switch that produces a rich and bassy sound, you may want to consider the Box Jade. Additionally, the Box Jade switch is described as "crunchy," which gives it a unique and satisfying clicky sound that resembles stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves.
Moving on to feel, the Ayara switch provides a polished typing experience. This means that it has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. This polished feel adds a sleekness to your typing experience. On the other hand, the Box Jade switch is described as accented and invigorating. This means that it offers a medium amount of tactility without being overwhelming or subtle. The Box Jade switch provides pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel. This combination creates an immersive typing sensation that some users find invigorating.
Taking all available information into consideration, the Ayara switch is best suited for those who prefer a medium heftness and enjoy a hearty typing experience. It provides a soft bottom-out feel and a clacky sound profile. If you are looking for a switch with a more neutral sound profile and a polished feel, the Ayara would be a great choice. On the other hand, the Box Jade switch offers a medium-heavy typing experience with a clicky sound profile and accented feel. It is characterized by crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps when typing. If you prefer a switch with a sharp and crisp sound, as well as a more invigorating feel, the Box Jade would be a better fit for you. However, it is important to note that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Ultimately, both switches offer their own unique qualities, so it's a matter of personal preference to determine which one suits your typing style and preferences better.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a hearty typing experience with a soft bottom-out feel and clacky sound, the SP-Star Ayara linear switch is the way to go. Its medium bottom out force of 62 grams provides a balanced typing experience suitable for both beginners and advanced users, whether you'll be using it at home or work. The Ayara also offers a polished feel, with smooth key travel and reduced friction.
On the other hand, if you want a medium-heavy typing experience with a satisfying clicky sound and pronounced tactile feedback, the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch is the better choice. Its 60-gram bottom out force provides a similar level of heftness as the Ayara, but with the added satisfaction of crisp clicks and crunchy tactile bumps. The Box Jades have an invigorating feel, with moderate to firm actuation force, creating an immersive typing sensation.
Both switches share a high-pitched sound profile, which produces sharp and crisp sounds when pressed. If you prefer the rich and bassy sound profiles of certain keyboard switches, the higher-pitched Ayara and Box Jade switches are ideal. Additionally, the Box Jade switch is also described as "crunchy," providing a sound similar to stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves.
Ultimately, your choice between the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Kailh Box Jade clicky switch will depend on your personal preference for typing experience and sound profile. Whether you prioritize the hearty feel and clacky sound of the Ayara or the medium-heavy typing experience with satisfying clicks of the Box Jade, both switches offer unique qualities that are sure to enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.
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