TTC Iron vs. SP-Star Polaris Gray
An in-depth look at the TTC Iron and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at the TTC Iron and SP-Star Polaris Gray mechanical keyboard switches, a clear distinction emerges in their sound profiles and typing experiences. The TTC Iron is renowned for its distinctive clacky sound signature and light actuation, offering a satisfying typing experience for those seeking precision and pleasure in every keystroke. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches provide a bouncy typing experience with a clean and clacky sound profile, appealing to users looking for a different type of tactile feedback. While the Iron is categorized as easy-to-press and neutral, the Polaris Gray is described as low-pitched and thocky. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
41g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Iron and the SP-Star Polaris Gray, it is evident that both switches utilize different materials for both the top and bottom housing. The POM top and bottom housings of the Iron provide a deep and muted sound profile, creating a unique auditory experience when typing. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray's polycarbonate top and bottom housings produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to the stiffness of the material. While both switches offer distinct sound profiles due to their housing materials, they cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel.
In terms of aesthetics, the Iron's POM housings may not offer the same level of translucency and RGB lighting capabilities as the polycarbonate housings of the Polaris Gray. The use of clear polycarbonate material in the Polaris Gray allows for better illumination and customization options with RGB lighting, making it visually appealing for users who enjoy customizing their keyboards with lighting effects. While the POM housings of the Iron provide a pleasing sound profile, the lack of translucency may limit the visual customization options available for users compared to the Polaris Gray.
Overall, the choice between the TTC Iron and the SP-Star Polaris Gray ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. The POM housings of the Iron offer a unique and pleasing sound experience with deeper tones, while the polycarbonate housings of the Polaris Gray deliver a sharper and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the translucent nature of the polycarbonate material in the Polaris Gray allows for enhanced visual customization with RGB lighting, making it a popular choice for users looking to personalize their keyboard setup. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct advantages based on their housing materials, catering to different preferences in sound, feel, and aesthetics.
Weight
The TTC Iron linear switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch. The Iron requires 41 grams of force to actuate a keystroke and 50 grams to bottom out, making it a lighter option. In contrast, the Polaris Gray has an unknown actuation force but a bottom out force of 67 grams, giving it a medium-heavy feel. This means that the Iron may be more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray may be favored by users who prefer a more substantial typing feel with a heavier force requirement. Both switches offer different tactile experiences, catering to a variety of preferences in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The TTC Iron linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, slightly shorter than the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Iron switch offers a slightly quicker response time compared to the Polaris Gray due to its shorter travel distance. Gamers who prioritize speed and quick keystrokes may prefer the Iron switch. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switch provides a slightly deeper key press, which may be more comfortable for those who prefer a more pronounced tactile feel. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and keypress feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Iron has an MSRP of $5.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Iron for $4.30.
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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Iron linear switch offers a distinctive clacky sound that provides a satisfying crispness and brightness to each keystroke. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch is known for its clean and clacky sound profile, which is described as low-pitched and thocky. The Iron switch leans towards a sharper and snappier sound, while the Polaris Gray switch offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Ultimately, the sound preference between the two switches would come down to personal taste and the overall setup of the keyboard.
Moving on to the feel, the TTC Iron linear switch is characterized by its easy-to-press actuation, providing a light and effortless typing experience that minimizes finger fatigue during prolonged use. In contrast, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, with a smooth and refined finish that enhances key travel and reduces friction. Both switches fall within the mild category, offering a gentle typing experience that would appeal to a wide range of users. Again, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for typing feel.
In conclusion, the TTC Iron linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch each offer unique sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences in the mechanical keyboard community. The Iron switch excels in providing a clacky sound and an easy-to-press feel, while the Polaris Gray switch stands out for its low-pitched, thocky sound and polished typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on whether the user values a sharper sound with light actuation or a bass-heavy sound with a refined typing feel. Regardless of the choice, both switches offer quality options for enthusiasts and daily users seeking precision and pleasure in their typing sessions.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are someone who appreciates a light and clacky typing experience with swift actuation and buttery smooth travel, the TTC Iron linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a clean and clacky sound profile, as well as a bouncy typing feel, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch might be more up your alley. Consider your typing preferences and the qualities that matter most to you when making your decision between these two exceptional switches.
Mentioned in this article
