TTC Gold Brown Pro vs. SP-Star Polaris Gray
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the SP-Star Polaris Gray mechanical keyboard switches, it ultimately boils down to your preference for tactile versus linear feedback. The Gold Brown Pro offers a tactile experience with a subtle bump that provides nuanced feedback without being distracting, making it perfect for those who want a polished and thocky typing experience. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switch offers a linear feel with a clean and clacky sound profile, ideal for those who enjoy a bouncy typing experience. 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
NPI
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
18mm spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the SP-Star Polaris Gray, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings, which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, enhancing the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the overall design. While the Gold Brown Pro utilizes a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound profile, the Polaris Gray maintains consistency with a polycarbonate bottom housing, contributing to the switch's clear and resonant sound.
Despite the differing bottom housing materials, the impact on the overall sound and feel of the switches is split between the top and bottom housings. When pressing down on either the Gold Brown Pro or the Polaris Gray, the qualities of the bottom housing material will be more prominent, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. In contrast, the top housing material will play a larger role in the sound produced when releasing a key, showcasing the sharpness and clarity of the polycarbonate material. While the Gold Brown Pro offers a nylon bottom housing for a distinct typing experience, the Polaris Gray's consistent use of polycarbonate in both top and bottom housings ensures a cohesive sound profile across the switch.
Overall, both the TTC Gold Brown Pro and the SP-Star Polaris Gray prioritize the use of polycarbonate in their top housings to enhance sound quality and clarity. The Gold Brown Pro's inclusion of a nylon bottom housing adds depth to the sound profile, while the Polaris Gray's all-polycarbonate construction maintains consistency throughout. Whether you prefer a fuller sound experience with the Gold Brown Pro or a crisper sound with the Polaris Gray, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences in typing and gaming environments. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in sound profile and aesthetic design.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, it is evident that they offer different weight options for users. The Gold Brown Pro has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes with less effort. However, the bottom out force is unknown, so it may not provide a consistent feel throughout the keystroke. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray has an unknown actuation force but a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, offering a more substantial typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions may lean towards the Gold Brown Pro, while the Polaris Gray would be suitable for those who prefer a heavier push feel. In terms of weight, the Gold Brown Pro is lighter in terms of actuation force, while the Polaris Gray is heavier with its bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and typing duration.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, which is slightly shorter than the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch's travel distance of 4 mm. While both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with 4.0mm being the standard, the Gold Brown Pro offers a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray provides a bit more depth and feedback when pressed, which some users prefer for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of responsiveness and tactile feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Brown Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown Pro for $2.90.
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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched profile, providing a deep and satisfying sound without being overwhelming. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch offers a clean and clacky sound experience, with a similar low-pitched profile that caters to those who enjoy a bouncier typing feel. Both switches fall under the neutral category, making them suitable for various settings and user preferences. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard structure and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel aspect, the Gold Brown Pro switch is described as polished, silky, mild, subtle, and stepped, offering a refined and smooth typing experience with gentle resistance. This makes it suitable for those who prefer a subtle tactile feedback without excessive noise. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switch is highlighted for its mild and polished qualities, providing a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches offer a comfortable and approachable feel, suitable for a wide range of users.
In conclusion, the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch both offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Gold Brown Pro excels in providing a subtle and nuanced tactile feedback with a quiet sound profile, the Polaris Gray offers a bouncier typing experience with a clean and clacky sound. Depending on your preference for a more subdued or vibrant typing experience, both switches provide a reliable performance that caters to different typing styles. Whether you choose the Gold Brown Pro or the Polaris Gray, you can expect a satisfying typing experience based on your individual preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Gold Brown Pro tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, consider your preference for tactile feedback and sound profile. If you value a subtle, nuanced tactile experience with minimal distraction and a subdued sound profile, the Gold Brown Pro might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy typing experience with a clean and clacky sound profile, the Polaris Gray switch could be more aligned with your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and the type of typing experience you enjoy the most.
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