TTC Gold Brown vs. SP-Star Polaris Gray
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options worth considering are the TTC Gold Brown and the SP-Star Polaris Gray. The Gold Brown switches are known for their balanced nature, offering a slight and satisfying bump with a moderate weightiness. These switches produce a rounded and softer sound profile compared to most switches without being completely silent. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switches are favored by those who prefer a bouncy typing experience. They boast a clean and clacky sound profile that many find appealing. The Gold Brown switch falls under the categories of 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Buttery', 'Accented', and 'Polished', while the Polaris Gray switch is categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', and 'Polished'. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your individual needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The TTC Gold Brown and the SP-Star Polaris Gray both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing material. This choice creates a similar effect on the sound profile of the switches, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a more precise and defined typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is particularly advantageous for those planning to use RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through and enhance the overall aesthetics of the switch.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Gold Brown employs nylon while the Polaris Gray sticks with polycarbonate. Nylon is a classic choice for switch housing and offers a different sound profile compared to polycarbonate. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, creating a slightly duller and rounder tone. This is because nylon, being a softer plastic, has the ability to absorb more sound, resulting in a unique auditory experience.
Considering the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the overall sound and feel of the switches, it is worth noting that the Gold Brown will showcase the qualities of nylon through its bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray will reflect the characteristics of polycarbonate when releasing a key. While both switches share the benefit of a clear sound profile due to the use of polycarbonate in their top housings, the specific tactile experience may differ depending on the chosen housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, there is a notable difference in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Gold Brown has an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams, placing it in the medium range. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray's actuation force remains unknown, but it has a bottom out force of 67 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. While the actuation force of the Polaris Gray is unavailable, it can be assumed to be within a similar range to the Gold Brown's due to both switches being classified as medium to medium-heavy. As for weight, some individuals may prefer the lighter Gold Brown switch as it allows for longer typing sessions, making it ideal for work or extended gaming periods. However, those seeking a more robust typing experience may opt for the heavier Polaris Gray switch, providing a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Though the color and type of switch may differ, both the Gold Brown and Polaris Gray switches offer a consistent tactile or linear feel with an identical travel distance. Whether you prefer the tactile feedback of the Gold Brown or the smooth linear feel of the Polaris Gray, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance for both switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown for $3.28.
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 switch offers a balanced experience. With a slight, satisfying bump and a rounded sound profile, these switches produce a generally softer sound compared to most switches, although they are not completely silent. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray switch has a clean and clacky sound profile. It is described as low-pitched, which means it has a more bass-heavy and mellow tone than higher-pitched switches. Additionally, the Polaris Gray switch is also described as thocky, meaning it produces a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed.
In terms of feel, both switches provide a mild typing experience. The Gold Brown switch is described as mild, offering a gentle and approachable typing feel. It is also characterized as buttery, indicating a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. The switch provides a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Additionally, the Gold Brown switch is considered accented, providing a prominent amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. With a polished finish, these switches offer reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the Polaris Gray switch offers a mild typing experience with a polished finish. It provides a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Based on the available information, it seems that the Gold Brown and Polaris Gray switches have some similarities in terms of sound and feel. Both switches offer a balanced sound profile and a mild typing experience. They both have a polished finish that provides reduced friction and smooth key travel. However, the Gold Brown switch has a slight bump and a softer sound profile, while the Polaris Gray switch has a clean and clacky sound. In terms of feel, the Gold Brown switch is described as buttery and accented, while the Polaris Gray switch is simply described as polished. Overall, if you prefer a balanced and softer sound with a slightly bumpy typing experience, the Gold Brown switch may be the better choice. However, if you enjoy a clean and clacky sound with a smooth typing experience, the Polaris Gray switch would be more suitable.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a balanced switch with a moderate weightiness and a satisfying bump, the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch would be a great choice for you. These switches offer a rounded sound profile that is softer compared to most switches, making them suitable for use at home or work. On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy typing experience with a clean and clacky sound profile, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch would be a perfect fit. These switches have a slightly higher bottom out force, giving them a medium-heavy feel. Additionally, the Polaris Gray switches have a low-pitched sound and a polished finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound.
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