KTT Kang White vs. SP-Star Polaris Gray
An in-depth look at the KTT Kang White 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 KTT Kang White and the SP-Star Polaris Gray. The Kang White is a linear switch that is best known for its dazzling typing sound and unparalleled smoothness, thanks to its self-lubricating material. Categorized as 'Low-pitched' and 'Neutral', this switch offers a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray is also a linear switch but stands out for providing a bouncy typing experience. Its sound profile is clean and clacky, making it a favorite among users. Categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', and 'Polished', this switch offers a variety of desirable qualities. However, rather than relying solely on generalities, let's dive in a bit deeper to help you make the best decision based on your preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
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
Both the KTT Kang White and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches share similar qualities in their top housing materials. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for vibrant RGB lighting effects, making it a great choice for those looking to enhance the aesthetics of their switches.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing materials, the two switches differ. The Kang White features a nylon bottom housing, which offers a distinct typing experience. Switches with nylon housing produce a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This creates a duller and rounder sound, providing a unique touch to the typing experience.
On the other hand, the Polaris Gray utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing. This material choice aligns with the sharper, higher-pitched sound profile created by polycarbonate. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, emphasizing the crispness of each keystroke.
In summary, while both switches employ polycarbonate for their top housing, the KTT Kang White stands out with its nylon bottom housing, offering a deeper and fuller sound profile. Meanwhile, the SP-Star Polaris Gray maintains a consistent sound profile throughout, thanks to its polycarbonate bottom housing. Whether you prefer the unique typing experience of the Kang White or the uniform sound of the Polaris Gray, both switches provide reliable performance and the benefits of polycarbonate in their top housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Kang White linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, there are notable differences. The Kang White has an actuation force of 45 grams, providing a relatively light touch to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the Polaris Gray does not disclose its actuation force. However, the Kang White requires a bottom out force of 58 grams, indicating a slightly heavier feel when pressing the keys all the way down. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Kang White.
Considering weight, some individuals may prefer a lighter switch like the Kang White, enabling them to type for extended periods without fatigue. This lighter weight is especially desirable for those using the keyboard for work or engaging in prolonged gaming sessions. Alternatively, individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for switches with heavier forces. In this case, the Polaris Gray would be a suitable option with its slightly heavier bottom out force.
While the actuation force of the Polaris Gray is unknown, it is crucial to note that similar results to the Kang White can be obtained if the actuation force is also in the medium range. However, without specific information about the Polaris Gray's actuation force, it is challenging to make a precise comparison in terms of trigger sensitivity between the two switches. Overall, the Kang White offers a lighter actuation force but requires a slightly heavier bottom out force, while the Polaris Gray sits in the medium-heavy range for its bottom out force.
Travel distance
The travel distances of the KTT Kang White linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch are the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either switch, you will experience an equal distance of travel. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, you can expect similar results from both switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The KTT Kang White comes in at $1.99 per 10 switches.
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
The Kang White switch is best known for its exquisite representation of a poppy linear switch, resulting in a dazzling typing sound. The self-lubricating material used in these switches provides an unparalleled smoothness when typing on them. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switch is favored by those who prefer a bouncy typing experience. The sound profile of the Polaris Gray switches is described as clean and clacky. Both switches have a low-pitched sound profile, which typically features a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Additionally, both switches are described as having a moderate actuation force requirement, making them suitable for most intents and purposes.
When it comes to feel, the exact qualities of the Kang White switch are unknown. However, the Polaris Gray switch offers a mild typing experience, providing a more gentle feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. These switches are also described as polished, resulting in a smooth and refined finish. This contributes to a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, both the Kang White and Polaris Gray switches offer similar qualities in terms of sound and actuation force requirement. However, the Kang White switch stands out for its dazzling typing sound and unparalleled smoothness due to the self-lubricating material. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switch is favored by those who prefer a bouncy typing experience and offers a polished finish for a sleek typing experience. Both switches are suitable for most intents and purposes and provide a low-pitched sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on personal preferences and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a poppy and dazzling typing experience with unparalleled smoothness, the KTT Kang White linear switch would be your go-to choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy typing experience with clean and clacky sound profile, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch would be more suitable for you. Both switches have a low-pitched sound profile and offer a moderate actuation force requirement, making them suitable for beginners and advanced users alike. However, the Polaris Gray switch also has a thocky sound characteristic, providing a deep and satisfying sound when pressed. In terms of feel, the Kang White switch does not have any specific descriptors mentioned, while the Polaris Gray is described as offering a mild and polished typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for typing sound, feel, and overall experience.
Mentioned in this article
