TTC Honey vs. SP-Star Polaris Gray
An in-depth look at the TTC Honey and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the TTC Honey and the SP-Star Polaris Gray. Both switches offer unique features and qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Honey switches are known for their smooth and creamy feel, providing a frictionless typing experience. Additionally, these switches boast a deep and pleasant sound profile that adds to the overall enjoyment. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switches are favored by those who prefer a bouncy typing experience. They offer a clean and clacky sound profile that adds a satisfying element to each keystroke. So, while the Honey switches provide a subdued and buttery feel, the Polaris Gray switches offer a low-pitched and thocky sensation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
25.5 mm lengthened spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The TTC Honey and the SP-Star Polaris Gray both utilize polycarbonate as the material for their top and bottom housings. This choice of material leads to a similar result in terms of sound profile, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when compared to other plastics. Additionally, polycarbonate's stiffness contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, enhancing the overall audio experience of both switch options.
Aesthetically, the use of polycarbonate in the housings allows for a translucent appearance, making it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. The translucency of polycarbonate enables the illumination from the RGB lighting to pass through, adding a visually appealing element to the switches. This feature is present in both the Honey and the Polaris Gray, making them suitable choices for those seeking switches compatible with RGB lighting setups.
While both switches feature polycarbonate for their top and bottom housings, the housing materials are responsible for different aspects of the switch's performance. The qualities brought by the bottom housing of the switch are felt when the switch is pressed down, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing influences the sound produced when a key is released. This differentiation in performance allows for a dynamic experience, as the user encounters different sound profiles depending on their interaction with the switch.
In summary, both the TTC Honey and the SP-Star Polaris Gray incorporate polycarbonate in their top and bottom housings, resulting in similar sound profiles characterized by sharpness, high-pitch, and crispness. The use of polycarbonate also enables compatibility with RGB lighting, adding to the switches' visual appeal. While the performance of the bottom and top housings may differ, both options offer an enhanced auditory experience, making them suitable choices for keyboard enthusiasts seeking switches with excellent sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Honey linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, it becomes clear that there are differences between the two. The Honey switch has an actuation force of 42 grams, indicating a relatively lighter touch is needed to trigger a keystroke. This lighter actuation force could be suitable for users who prefer a more effortless typing experience or engage in prolonged typing sessions. Additionally, the Honey switch has a bottom out force of 50 grams, which implies that it requires slightly more force to fully press the key down.
On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switch has an unspecified actuation force, making it difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect. However, when considering the bottom out force, the Polaris Gray switch requires 67 grams of force for a complete press. This makes the Polaris Gray switch heavier in comparison to the Honey switch. For individuals who appreciate a more substantial push when typing, the higher bottom out force of the Polaris Gray switch may provide a more satisfying and tactile typing experience.
In summary, the TTC Honey linear switch has a lighter actuation force and a lighter bottom out force compared to the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force but a heavier bottom out force. Depending on the user's preference and typing style, the lighter forces of the Honey switch may be beneficial for extended typing sessions, while the heavier forces of the Polaris Gray switch could provide a more substantial and tactile typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the TTC Honey linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, it is clear that the Honey has a shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Polaris Gray has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. The difference may seem negligible, but it can have an impact on the typing experience. The 4.0mm travel distance of the Polaris Gray falls within the range of traditional travel distances, providing a balanced feel. On the other hand, the Honey's 3.8mm travel distance is slightly shallower, making it a favorable choice for gamers seeking faster response times. This shorter travel distance allows for quicker keystrokes and increased responsiveness. However, individuals who prefer a more substantial key press and a sense of depth may find the Honey's shorter travel distance to feel too abrupt. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the desired typing experience – whether it's a preference for speed or a preference for a more tactile response.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Honey has an MSRP of $9.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Honey for $6.78.
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 Honey linear switch has a deep and pleasant sound profile. It is described as subdued, meaning it produces a dampened sound when pressed. While not completely silent, it offers a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch has a clean and clacky sound profile. It is described as low-pitched, which means it features a bass-heavy and mellow tone. Additionally, it is also described as thocky, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the TTC Honey linear switch is known for its smooth and creamy typing experience. It is described as creamy, offering a silky sensation while typing. This smoothness can be attributed to lubricant applied in the switch at the factory or specific materials used. Additionally, the Honey switch is described as frictionless, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction when pressing the keys. It also has a subtle and polished feel, providing a gentle resistance that is suitable for shared spaces and a smooth and refined typing experience.
Similarly, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch also has a polished feel, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. It is described as mild, offering a more gentle and approachable typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. While the specific qualities of the Polaris Gray switch may not be as detailed as the Honey switch, they both offer a smooth and refined typing experience.
In conclusion, the TTC Honey linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch have distinct sound and feel qualities. The Honey switch has a subdued sound profile and offers a smooth, creamy, and frictionless typing experience. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switch has a low-pitched and thocky sound profile, as well as a mild and polished feel. While the specific characteristics may differ, both switches provide a smooth and refined typing experience. Therefore, if you are looking for a switch with similar results, either option would be a suitable choice.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are looking for a light and smooth typing experience with a deep sound profile, the TTC Honey linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. These switches have a bottom out force of 50 grams, making them light and easy to press. The smooth and creamy feel of the Honey switches, along with their deep and pleasant sound profile, will provide you with a satisfying typing experience.
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 the better option. With a bottom out force of 67 grams, these switches offer a medium-heavy typing feel. The Polaris Gray switches are known for their bouncy typing experience and clean and clacky sound profile, which will add a sense of liveliness to your typing.
In terms of sound, the Honey switches have a subdued sound, offering a more subtle and dampened sound compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switches have a low-pitched sound, characterized by a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Additionally, they offer a neutral sound profile, suitable for various purposes, and a thocky sound, providing a deep and satisfying typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Honey switches are described as creamy, frictionless, buttery, subtle, and polished. They offer a smooth and buttery typing experience, with minimal resistance and friction, resulting in a seamless and effortless keystroke. The Polaris Gray switches, on the other hand, are described as mild and polished, offering a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and polished finish.
Ultimately, your choice between the TTC Honey linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch will depend on your preferences. If you value a light and smooth typing experience with a deep sound profile, go for the TTC Honey switches. If you prefer a bouncy typing experience with a clean and clacky sound profile, opt for the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches. Both switches offer unique qualities that will enhance your typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
