Gateron Ink Red vs. SP-Star Polaris Gray
An in-depth look at the Gateron Ink Red and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Gateron Ink Red, a linear switch, and the SP-Star Polaris Gray, also a linear switch. The Ink Red is best known for its lower actuation force, making it ideal for those with a lighter typing style. This switch offers a satisfyingly smooth and effortless typing experience, accompanied by a crispy and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray is favored by individuals who prefer a bouncy typing experience. This switch provides a clean and clacky sound profile, offering a unique tactile sensation. While these general descriptions give you a glimpse into the characteristics of each switch, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Gateron Ink Red and the SP-Star Polaris Gray differ in their housing materials. The Ink Red features a proprietary INK blend top and bottom housing, while the Polaris Gray utilizes polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housings.
In terms of sound profile, the INK blend top and bottom housings of the Ink Red produce a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound. This sound is described as clacky and satisfying. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top and bottom housings of the Polaris Gray create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, which leads to a clearer and more resonant sound.
Aesthetically, the Ink Red's INK blend top and bottom housings do not offer the translucency of polycarbonate. Therefore, if you plan to use RGB lighting, the Polaris Gray with its polycarbonate top housing would be more suitable as it allows for light to pass through, enhancing the visual effect.
While there are differences in the housing materials and their resulting sound profiles and aesthetics, it is important to note that both switches offer a satisfying and comparatively higher-pitched sound. Pressing down on either switch will provide a similar experience as the qualities of the bottom housing, which influences the bottom-out sound and feel, are comparable. However, the sound when releasing a key may differ slightly as the top housing has a greater impact on this aspect. Ultimately, both switches deliver a unique auditory and tactile experience, catering to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, there are some notable differences. The Ink Red has an actuation force of 45 grams, while the actuation force of the Polaris Gray is unknown. Both switches, however, have a similar bottom out force, with the Ink Red requiring 60 grams and the Polaris Gray needing 67 grams to fully press down.
Considering weight, it is clear that the Ink Red is the lighter option, which can be beneficial for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. This lighter actuation force allows for longer typing periods without causing fatigue, making it ideal for use in work or during long gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray offers a heavier bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing feel. This can be appealing to individuals who prefer a stronger push while typing, giving them a greater sense of control and feedback.
It is worth noting that even though the actuation force of the Polaris Gray is unknown, its medium-heavy bottom out force suggests that it might be slightly heavier overall compared to the Ink Red switch. However, it is difficult to make a direct comparison without precise information on the actuation force. Regardless, both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, ensuring a tactile typing experience for those who prefer a bit of resistance.
In summary, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch offers a lighter actuation force and a medium bottom out force, while the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch provides a heavier bottom out force (with an unknown actuation force). Depending on personal preference, one can choose between a lighter typing experience or a more substantial and controlled keystroke.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Ink Red linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. When pressing down on a key, users will experience the same travel distance with both switches, resulting in similar tactile feedback. Therefore, whether using the Gateron Ink Red or the SP-Star Polaris Gray, users can expect a consistent and comfortable typing experience with a travel distance of 4 mm.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Ink Red has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Red for $7.35.
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 Gateron Ink Red linear switch offers a neutral sound profile with a crispy and clacky tone. This sound is not overly high-pitched or bass-heavy, making it suitable for various environments and preferences. Additionally, the Ink Reds have a unique chirpy aspect to their sound, which adds a distinctive acoustic signature. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch provides a low-pitched sound, characterized by a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. It also has a clean and clacky sound profile, offering a satisfying auditory experience. Ultimately, the sound produced by these switches will depend on other factors such as the keyboard they are used with and the choice of keycaps.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch provides a silky typing experience. This means that the switch offers exceptional smoothness, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. The overall typing feel with Ink Reds is effortless and enhances the overall smoothness of the typing experience. Additionally, these switches are classified as mild, meaning they offer a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. The Ink Reds also have a polished finish, resulting in a sleek and refined typing experience. This smooth key travel and reduced friction contribute to the overall polished feel of the switch. Similarly, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch is also classified as mild and offers a polished experience. However, specific details about the tactile attributes of this switch are unknown.
Taking all the available information into account, it is clear that the Gateron Ink Red and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switches have distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The Ink Red switch is known for its satisfyingly smooth feel, crispy and clacky sound profile, and lower actuation force, making it suitable for those with a lighter typing style. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switch offers a bouncy typing experience, clean and clacky sound profile, and a moderate actuation force. While they have different attributes, both switches fall within the neutral and mild categories, ensuring a safe and balanced typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences and the desired typing feel and sound profile.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron Ink Red and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences. If you have a lighter typing style and prefer a switch with lower actuation force, then the Ink Red would be a great choice for you. With its smooth and effortless typing experience, as well as its satisfyingly clacky sound profile, it is an ideal option for those who desire a crisp and responsive feel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy typing experience and a switch with a slightly higher actuation force, the Polaris Gray switch would suit you well. The Polaris Gray offers a clean and clacky sound profile, with a moderate actuation force that provides a balanced typing experience. Additionally, if you prefer a low-pitched and thocky sound, the Polaris Gray can deliver that deep and satisfying "thud" when pressed and released.
In terms of sound, the Ink Red offers a neutral sound profile, suitable for most intents and purposes, with an added unique chirpy characteristic. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray provides a low-pitched sound profile, along with a neutral and thocky option, which can offer a more mellow and bass-heavy typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Ink Red provides a silky and polished typing experience, enhancing the overall smoothness while minimizing resistance. The Polaris Gray, on the other hand, offers a mild and polished feel, providing a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gateron Ink Red and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches depends on your personal typing style, preference for actuation force, desired sound profile, and preferred typing experience. Consider these factors when making your decision, and you will find the switch that best suits your needs.
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