Kailh Box Royal vs. SP-Star Polaris Gray

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Kailh Box Royal and the SP-Star Polaris Gray. Each switch offers a unique typing experience, catering to different preferences and needs. The Kailh Box Royal is a tactile switch, known for its sharp and binary tactility. If you crave an almost aggressive tactile feedback, these switches are a perfect fit. Additionally, their higher-pitched sound profile adds to the overall satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray is a linear switch that provides a bouncy typing experience. These switches are loved by those who prefer a clean and clacky sound profile, thanks to their low-pitched and polished characteristics. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Kailh Box Royal Tactile

SP-Star Polaris Gray Linear

$6.25 per 10

$5.60

$5.00 per 10

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Housing materials

The Kailh Box Royal and the SP-Star Polaris Gray differ in their housing materials. The Box Royal features a nylon top and bottom housing, while the Polaris Gray utilizes a polycarbonate top and bottom housing. These materials contribute to distinct sound profiles. The Box Royal's nylon housing absorbs more sound due to its softer plastic, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound when typing. In contrast, the Polaris Gray's polycarbonate housing, being stiffer, creates a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, the polycarbonate's translucency is particularly beneficial for users planning to incorporate RGB lighting, as it allows for better light transmission.

While the housing materials of the Box Royal and the Polaris Gray differ, they also share similarities. Both nylon and polycarbonate are commonly used in switch housings. They both contribute to the overall sound profile, with nylon producing a duller and rounder sound, and polycarbonate providing a more resonant and clear sound. Additionally, both materials are known for their durability, ensuring the longevity of the switches.

When it comes to the impact of the housing materials on the typing experience, both the top and bottom housings play a role. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, affecting how the switch responds when pressed down. On the other hand, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when the key is released. Therefore, users can expect differences in the sound produced depending on the housing materials used for the top and bottom of the switch.

In conclusion, the choice between the Kailh Box Royal and the SP-Star Polaris Gray hinges on personal preferences in terms of sound profiles and lighting aesthetics. The Box Royal's nylon housing offers a deeper and fuller sound, while the Polaris Gray's polycarbonate housing provides a sharper and crisper sound. Depending on the desired typing experience and the incorporation of RGB lighting, users can select the housing material that best suits their needs.

Weight

When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, it is evident that both switches fall into the medium-heavy category. The Kailh Box Royal has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, while the exact actuation force of the Polaris Gray is unknown, but it has a bottom out force of 67 grams.

In terms of weight, some individuals may prefer a lighter switch, such as the Kailh Box Royal, as it allows for more comfortable typing during extended periods or intense gaming sessions. On the other hand, for those seeking a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, a switch with a heavier force, such as the Polaris Gray, would be the ideal choice.

While the actuation force of the Polaris Gray is unknown, the similarity in bottom out forces between the two switches suggests that users can expect a comparable typing experience in terms of the force required to fully depress the keys. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will come down to personal preference regarding the desired weight and feel during typing or gaming sessions.

Travel distance

The Kailh Box Royal tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Polaris Gray has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Box Royal. Generally, a travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered the most traditional, while 3.0 mm is the shallowest. However, shorter travel distances have become popular, especially among gamers who value faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive feel, opting for the shorter travel distance of the Box Royal would be ideal. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on a key, the Polaris Gray with its slightly longer travel distance might be more satisfying. Ultimately, it depends on personal preference and whether you prioritize faster response times or a more substantial keypress feel.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Kailh Box Royal tactile switch is known for its sharp, binary tactility, providing a nearly aggressive tactile experience. This switch produces a relatively higher pitched sound when pressed. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch offers a bouncy typing experience with a clean and clacky sound profile. It is described as low-pitched, which means it has a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Additionally, the Polaris Gray switch is considered to be thocky, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed.

In terms of feel, the Box Royal switch is characterized by its sharp tactile bump, offering high feedback intensity and a distinct feel with each keypress. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switch provides a mild and approachable typing experience. It falls into a safe, middle-ground zone, offering a gentle feel that is suitable for most users. Additionally, the Polaris Gray switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish for a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.

Based on the available information, it is evident that the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Box Royal provides a sharp, binary tactility and a higher pitched sound, while the Polaris Gray offers a bouncy typing experience with a clean, clacky sound. The Box Royal has a sharp tactile bump for high feedback intensity, while the Polaris Gray offers a mild and approachable typing experience with a polished finish. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for tactile feedback and sound profile.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you're looking for an incredibly tactile and aggressive switch, the Kailh Box Royal is the perfect choice for you. With its sharp and binary tactility, you'll feel a strong and distinct tactile bump with each keypress. Additionally, if you prefer a higher-pitched sound profile, the Box Royal delivers a sharp and crisp sound. On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy typing experience with a clean and clacky sound profile, the SP-Star Polaris Gray is an excellent option. With its medium-heavy bottom out force and mild feel, these switches offer a gentle typing experience that most people can enjoy. Furthermore, the Polaris Gray is described as polished, meaning it provides a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction. Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Box Royal and SP-Star Polaris Gray comes down to personal preference in terms of tactility, sound profile, and typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh Box Royal Tactile

$6.25 per 10

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SP-Star Polaris Gray Linear

$5.60

$5.00 per 10

Learn more