Keygeek Keygeek Raw vs. SP-Star Polaris Gray
An in-depth look at the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Keygeek Raw linear switch with the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, we see two distinct options with unique characteristics. The Keygeek Raw stands out for its material blend of Nylon, UMPE, and Silicon, offering a creamy yet lightweight feel with a slightly textured out-of-the-box experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray is favored for its bouncy typing experience and clean, clacky sound profile. While the Keygeek Raw is categorized as textured, mild, neutral, and subtle, the Polaris Gray is categorized as low-pitched, neutral, mild, thocky, and polished. Each switch offers a different typing experience, so it's essential to consider your preferences when choosing between them. 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
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
57.5g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon & UPE blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
UMPE & Si blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and the SP-Star Polaris Gray, there are some similarities and differences to note. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which leads to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This material is known for its stiffness, providing a clear and resonant sound when typing. However, the Keygeek Raw stands out with its Nylon & UPE blend top housing, offering a unique sound profile exclusive to these switches. The translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for RGB lighting, giving a visually appealing touch to the Polaris Gray switch.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Keygeek Raw and the SP-Star Polaris Gray utilize polycarbonate in their constructions. This results in a similar effect on the sound profile, creating a crisp and sharp typing experience. The UMPE & Si blend bottom housing of the Keygeek Raw adds a distinctive element to the switch, providing a different tactile feel compared to the Polaris Gray. Despite these differences, both switches benefit from the transparent nature of polycarbonate, allowing for a visually striking appearance when paired with RGB lighting.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in a switch plays a significant role in determining the sound and feel of typing on a mechanical keyboard. While both the Keygeek Keygeek Raw and the SP-Star Polaris Gray feature polycarbonate in their housing, the Keygeek Raw offers a unique blend in its top housing for a distinct sound profile. The clear nature of polycarbonate enhances the aesthetics of the switches, especially when paired with RGB lighting. Whether it's the exclusive Nylon & UPE blend of the Keygeek Raw or the stiffer polycarbonate of the Polaris Gray, both switches provide a quality typing experience with their carefully chosen housing materials.
Weight
The Keygeek Keygeek Raw linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch both have a medium actuation force, requiring None grams of force to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Keygeek Raw is lighter with 57.5 grams compared to the Polaris Gray's heavier 67 grams. This means that while both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of actuation, the Polaris Gray will offer a more substantial push feel when bottoming out keys. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, the Keygeek Raw may be the better option. In contrast, those who enjoy a stronger push feel and more substantial typing experience may prefer the heavier bottom out force of the Polaris Gray. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Keygeek Raw linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, we can see that the Keygeek Raw has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Polaris Gray has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Keygeek Raw has a shorter travel distance compared to the Polaris Gray. The shorter travel distance of the Keygeek Raw may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Polaris Gray may provide a more substantial and satisfying key press for those who prefer more depth. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and response time.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Keygeek Keygeek Raw has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Keygeek Raw for $3.51.
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 Keygeek Raw switch offers a neutral profile that is suitable for a wide range of users, whether they are beginners or advanced enthusiasts. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray switch provides a low-pitched and thocky sound that is bass-heavy and satisfying to typing enthusiasts. Ultimately, the sound profile of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Keygeek Raw switch offers a textured and mild typing experience that is approachable to most users. The Polaris Gray switch, on the other hand, provides a mild and polished feel that is smooth and refined, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction. Both switches offer a gentle typing feel, making them suitable for a variety of users.
Overall, both the Keygeek Raw and SP-Star Polaris Gray switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Keygeek Raw switch is known for its creamy yet lightweight feel and slightly textured unlubricated finish, the Polaris Gray switch stands out for its bouncy typing experience and clean, clacky sound profile. If you prefer similar results in terms of sound and feel, either switch could provide a satisfying typing experience depending on your personal preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Keygeek Raw linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, consider the Keygeek Raw for a unique blend of materials that offer a creamy yet lightweight feel, making it ideal for enthusiasts who enjoy hand-lubing their switches. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray is perfect for those seeking a bouncy typing experience with a clean and clacky sound profile. If you prefer a switch with a moderate actuation force requirement and a slightly textured feel, the Keygeek Raw may be more suitable for you. Alternatively, if you prefer a low-pitched, thocky switch with a more gentle typing experience and a polished finish, the SP-Star Polaris Gray could be the better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
