SP-Star Ayara vs. HMX Lotus
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Ayara and the HMX Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the SP-Star Ayara and the HMX Lotus mechanical keyboard switches, both being linear switches, they each offer unique qualities to consider. The Ayara is praised for its medium heftiness, making it ideal for those who enjoy a robust typing experience with a soft bottom-out feel and a clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Lotus stands out for its medium weight and bright, resonant sound, providing users with a super bouncy feeling with every keystroke. While the Ayara offers a more polished and high-pitched typing experience, the Lotus focuses on delivering a delightful typing sensation. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Standard
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
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
Both the SP-Star Ayara and the HMX Lotus use nylon for their housing materials, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, creating a duller and rounder sound overall. This makes both switches ideal for those looking for a quieter typing experience without sacrificing the tactile feedback.
While both the Ayara and the Lotus share the same nylon housing material for their top and bottom components, the way in which these materials interact with the overall typing experience can vary. The bottom housing of a switch typically has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is fully pressed. On the other hand, the top housing has a greater influence on the sound produced when a key is released. This difference in housing components can result in subtle variations in the overall sound and feel of each switch.
In terms of performance, the similarities between the SP-Star Ayara and the HMX Lotus are evident due to their shared use of nylon for both top and bottom housing. This consistent material choice ensures that typists will experience a similar deep and full sound profile when using either switch. The decision between the two may come down to personal preference in terms of key feel, as the bottom and top housing materials can impact the overall typing experience in different ways. Ultimately, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience with the benefits of using nylon housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Ayara linear switch and the HMX Lotus linear switch, it is evident that they offer different experiences. The Ayara has an actuation force of None grams, making it light and easy to type on. In contrast, the Lotus requires 45 grams of force to actuate, providing a bit more resistance. Both switches have similar bottom out forces, with the Ayara requiring 62 grams and the Lotus needing 50 grams. Due to the lighter actuation force and bottom out force, the Ayara switch may be preferred for those looking for a smoother typing experience. On the other hand, the Lotus switch offers a bit more resistance, which can be appealing to users who prefer a firmer keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The SP-Star Ayara linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Lotus linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In this case, the Lotus has a shorter travel distance compared to the Ayara. The difference may seem small, but it can impact the overall feel and performance of the switch. Gamers who prioritize fast response times may lean towards the Lotus due to its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may find the Ayara more to their liking. Ultimately, both switches offer a different typing experience based on their travel distance, so it's important to consider your personal preference and typing style when choosing between the two.
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 HMX Lotus comes in at $3.49 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 linear switch offers a neutral sound profile with a soft bottom-out feel, making it a suitable option for a wide range of users, whether beginners or advanced typists. On the other hand, the Lotus linear switch from HMX provides a bright and resonant sound that is sure to add a level of satisfaction to every keystroke. Both switches offer unique sound characteristics that can enhance the overall typing experience, with the Ayara being more clacky and the Lotus having a more bouncy sound.
In terms of feel, the Ayara switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. This indicates that the materials used or factory lubing contribute to the overall feel of the switch. On the other hand, the feel of the Lotus switch is not explicitly described, leaving some ambiguity surrounding its tactile experience. However, based on the information available, it can be inferred that the Lotus switch offers a super bouncy feeling with a medium weight that may appeal to users looking for a more dynamic typing experience.
Overall, both the Ayara and Lotus linear switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel that cater to different preferences and typing styles. While the Ayara is more neutral in sound with a clacky profile and polished feel, the Lotus boasts a bright and resonant sound with a super bouncy feeling. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between these two switches to enhance their typing experience. It is important to consider other factors such as keyboard choice and keycaps when deciding which switch is the best fit. Additionally, if a user enjoys the qualities of one switch, they may find similar results in the other based on the described characteristics.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a hearty typing experience with a soft bottom-out feel and a clacky sound profile, then the SP-Star Ayara linear switch with a bottom out force of 62 grams would be the way to go. On the other hand, if you enjoy a super bouncy feeling with a bright, resonant sound and a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams, then the HMX Lotus linear switch is the better choice for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on personal preference regarding typing experience, sound profile, and bottom out force. Both switches have their own unique features that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that best suits your needs and typing style.
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