SP-Star Ayara vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the SP-Star Ayara and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow are two prominent options worth considering. The Ayara switch is known for its medium heftiness and is highly recommended for those who prefer a satisfyingly robust typing experience. With a soft bottom-out feel and a perfectly clacky sound profile, the Ayara switch adds a touch of excitement to each keystroke. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow stands out as an exceptional budget-friendly option in the realm of linear switches. With a higher pitched clacky sound profile and a bouncy typing feel, these switches offer a unique experience. Both switches fall under the 'high-pitched' and 'polished' categories, but the Ayara switch is also described as 'neutral', while the G Pro 3.0 Yellow is categorized as 'creamy' and 'resonant'. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences and typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Standard
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
15.4mm long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Ayara and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow differ in terms of their sound profiles and aesthetic features. The Ayara utilizes a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow features a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the polycarbonate material is translucent, making it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the Ayara and the G Pro 3.0 Yellow utilize nylon. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softness allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, both switches will offer similar results due to the shared nylon bottom housing.
It is important to note that the qualities of each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the choice between the Ayara and the G Pro 3.0 Yellow will depend on the specific sound profile and aesthetics desired. Those seeking a deeper and fuller sound with a duller tone may prefer the Ayara's nylon housing, while individuals looking for a sharper and crisper sound with the option for RGB lighting may opt for the G Pro 3.0 Yellow's polycarbonate housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch, a few differences arise. The Ayara switch has an unknown actuation force, making it difficult to directly compare. However, its bottom out force is measured at 62 grams, which falls within the medium range. On the contrary, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch has a known actuation force of 50 grams, making it lighter than the Ayara switch. Additionally, its bottom out force is slightly higher at 67 grams, giving it a medium-heavy weight.
For those seeking a lighter typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch would be more suitable due to its lower actuation force. This lighter force can be beneficial for individuals who type for extended periods or engage in lengthy gaming sessions. In contrast, the Ayara switch offers a medium bottom out force, which might be preferred by users who enjoy a more substantial typing feel. These individuals tend to prefer switches with heavier forces, as it provides a satisfying tactile feedback.
While the precise actuation force of the Ayara switch remains unknown, it can be assumed that if it falls within a similar range as the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch (around 50 grams), the results would be comparable. In these instances, both switches would offer a lighter force for smoother and more effortless keystrokes. However, if the Ayara switch has a higher actuation force, it would provide a sturdier and more deliberate keystroke, appealing to those who prefer a heavier typing experience. Overall, the choice between the SP-Star Ayara and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches ultimately depends on personal preference - whether one favors a lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out force - as well as the desired typing or gaming experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch plays a crucial role in the typing experience, as it determines the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom when a key is pressed. In the case of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch, both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, the user will experience the same 4 mm travel distance. Thus, the results obtained from typing on these switches in terms of travel distance will be similar.
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 Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow has an MSRP of $3.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Yellow for $2.78.
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 makes it suitable for both beginners and advanced users, and can be used in various settings such as at home or at work. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch produces a higher-pitched clacky sound when pressed. This switch is also described as resonant, providing an immersive auditory experience with a clean and sharp sound profile. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, both the Ayara and G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches are described as polished. This means that they have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. The reduced friction and smooth key travel provided by these switches contribute to a comfortable typing feel. Additionally, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch is also described as creamy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience. This sensation is likened to gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys, as they seamlessly melt into each keystroke.
Overall, both the Ayara and G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches offer desirable subjective qualities. They provide a polished and smooth typing experience with reduced friction, making them comfortable to use. The Ayara switch offers a neutral sound profile with a medium heftness, while the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switch produces a higher-pitched clacky sound and is described as resonant. However, it is important to consider other factors such as personal preferences, the keyboard board, and keycaps used, as these can influence the overall typing experience. Ultimately, choosing either switch will likely result in similar results in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a hearty typing experience with a soft bottom-out feel and a perfectly 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 medium heftness that many typists enjoy. Additionally, the Ayara switch provides a polished feel, resulting in smooth key travel and reduced friction.
On the other hand, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option that still delivers in terms of sound and feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch is a fantastic choice. With a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, it offers a fairly bouncy typing experience and a higher-pitched clacky sound profile. Like the Ayara switch, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow also has a polished feel, providing smooth key travel and reduced friction.
Ultimately, the decision between the SP-Star Ayara and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches will come down to personal preference. Consider whether you prefer a medium or medium-heavy bottom out force, and whether you lean towards a softer or bouncier typing experience. Additionally, consider whether you prefer a perfectly clacky sound profile or a higher-pitched one.
In closing, both switches offer their own unique advantages and are suitable for different typing preferences. Take some time to explore and determine which switch aligns best with your typing style and preferences. Whichever you choose, both the SP-Star Ayara and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches are excellent options that will enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.
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