TTC Brother vs. SP-Star Polaris Gray
An in-depth look at the TTC Brother and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Brother clicky switch to the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, there are distinct differences that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard switches. The Brother stands out for its lightweight actuation of just 37g, providing a tactile experience without feeling burdensome. Clicky switch enthusiasts will appreciate the satisfyingly crunchy sound signature and distinct tactile bump that strikes a perfect balance. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switch offers a bouncy typing experience with a clean and clacky sound profile. While the Brother is categorized as crunchy, easy-to-press, and stepped, the Polaris Gray is described as low-pitched, neutral, mild, thocky, and polished. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences and typing style. 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
37g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
17.5mm spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Brother and the SP-Star Polaris Gray, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. However, the Brother features a nylon bottom housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound when typing compared to the Polaris Gray's polycarbonate bottom. The difference in bottom housing materials may impact the overall typing experience and sound feedback of each switch.
Despite both switches sharing polycarbonate as their top housing material, the TTC Brother and SP-Star Polaris Gray vary in their bottom housing composition. The Brother's nylon bottom housing offers a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound profile when typing. In contrast, the Polaris Gray's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper and more resonant sound. This distinction in bottom housing material can significantly influence the overall typing feel and sound quality of each switch.
When analyzing the impact of housing materials on a switch's performance, it is crucial to consider how the top and bottom housings interact. The qualities brought by each material will be divided between the top and bottom of the switch, affecting the typing experience differently. While the Brother emphasizes a fuller sound with its nylon bottom housing, the Polaris Gray prioritizes a clearer and crisper sound with its polycarbonate bottom. Understanding the role of each housing material can help users choose a switch that aligns with their preferences for sound and typing feel.
Weight
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams compared to the unknown actuation force of the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch. However, the Polaris Gray has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, while the bottom out force for the Brother switch is unknown. This means that the Brother switch is lighter to press initially, making it easier for extended typing sessions or gaming, but the Polaris Gray switch provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for the amount of force required to actuate and bottom out keys.
Travel distance
The TTC Brother clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Polaris Gray switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Brother switch. The traditional travel distance falls within the range of 4.0mm, making the Polaris Gray more in line with this standard. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times, which would make the Brother switch a favorable choice in that aspect. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial key press might lean towards the Polaris Gray with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches would depend on personal preference for key press depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Brother has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Brother for $3.30.
The SP-Star Polaris Gray has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Gray for $5.00.
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 TTC Brother clicky switch is known for its crunchy sound signature, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp autumn leaves. This satisfyingly crisp sound is a hallmark of clicky switches and is sure to please enthusiasts of this type of switch. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch offers a cleaner and clackier sound profile, with a low-pitched tone that adds a bass-heavy and mellow quality to typing sessions. While the Brother excels in delivering a distinctive click with clear, crisp precision, the Polaris Gray provides a more neutral and thocky sound that appeals to those seeking a deeper and more satisfying typing experience.
Moving on to feel, the TTC Brother clicky switch stands out for its easy-to-press nature, offering gentle resistance during key presses that require minimal force to activate. This light actuation force makes typing effortless and comfortable, reducing finger fatigue during extended sessions. Additionally, the tactile bump on the Brother switch strikes a perfect balance between being noticeable yet subtle, enhancing the overall typing experience. Comparatively, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, offering a more gentle feel that is approachable to most users. With reduced friction and smooth key travel, the Polaris Gray switch ensures a sleek and refined typing experience that is both comfortable and satisfying.
In conclusion, the TTC Brother clicky switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Brother excels in providing a crunchy sound signature and an easy-to-press tactile experience, making it a top choice for enthusiasts seeking a distinctive clicky switch. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switch delivers a cleaner and clackier sound profile with a more mild and polished feel, catering to those who prefer a smoother and gentler typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches would depend on personal preference for sound and feel, as both switches offer excellent options for different typing styles and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a satisfying and lightweight clicky switch experience, the TTC Brother switch with its crisp and crunchy sound signature would be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy linear switch that offers a bouncy typing experience with a clean and clacky sound profile, the SP-Star Polaris Gray switch would be the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a tactile and audible typing experience (TTC Brother) or a smooth and polished feel with a moderate sound profile (SP-Star Polaris Gray). Choose wisely based on your personal preferences and typing style to enhance your overall keyboarding experience.
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