TKC Kiwi vs. SP-Star Polaris Gray

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the TKC Kiwi and the SP-Star Polaris Gray. The Kiwi switches are tactile, providing a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press. This not only enhances your typing experience but also delivers an immersive feel with a snappy sound profile. Additionally, the Kiwi switches come lightly factory lubed, ensuring a smooth and effortless typing experience right out of the box. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switches offer a bouncy typing experience and have a clean and clacky sound profile. These switches are perfect for individuals who enjoy a tactile feedback that is slightly softer and less pronounced than the Kiwi switches. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so that you can best decide on the switch that suits your personal preferences.

By the numbers

TKC Kiwi Tactile

SP-Star Polaris Gray Linear

$8.00 per 10

$5.60

$5.00 per 10

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Housing materials

The TKC Kiwi utilizes UHWMPE for both its top and bottom housing, while the SP-Star Polaris Gray incorporates polycarbonate for both of its housing components. Both UHWMPE and polycarbonate are newer materials for switch housings, offering distinct sound signatures. UHWMPE provides a very bright sound signature with resonant clacks, creating a unique typing experience. On the other hand, polycarbonate brings a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile to the switch. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate plastic, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced.

Aesthetically, polycarbonate holds an advantage as it is a translucent material, making it suitable for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. The clear housing of polycarbonate allows for better light diffusion, resulting in vibrant and eye-catching effects. In contrast, UHWMPE does not possess this translucent property. However, both materials offer their own set of auditory benefits, with UHWMPE emphasizing clackiness, while polycarbonate provides a sharper and clearer sound profile. Therefore, the choice between the two will be subjective based on personal preferences of sound and aesthetics.

When it comes to the impact on the typing experience, the choice between materials for the top and bottom housing becomes significant. For switches with different top and bottom housings, the qualities associated with each material will be divided between the two parts. The bottom housing primarily influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. Therefore, the composition of the bottom housing, whether UHWMPE or polycarbonate, will determine the tactile feedback and sound produced during the key press. On the other hand, the top housing has more influence on the sound when releasing a key, affecting the sound profile and resonance during key releases. Thus, understanding the material composition of both the top and bottom housing is crucial in order to optimize the desired sound and feel of the switch.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, there are some similarities and differences to note. Firstly, in terms of actuation force, the Kiwi requires 43 grams of force to trigger a keystroke, while the specific force required for the Polaris Gray is unknown. However, both switches have a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is considered medium-heavy.

Now, let's consider weight. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Kiwi may be the preferred choice as its actuation force is relatively low, allowing for smooth and effortless keystrokes. This can be beneficial for individuals who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. On the other hand, some users might prefer a heavier actuation force to have a more substantial and tactile typing experience. In this case, the exact actuation force of the Polaris Gray is unknown, but since its bottom out force matches that of the Kiwi, similar results in terms of a satisfying and weighted keystroke can be expected.

In summary, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch has a known actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. The SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch has an unknown actuation force but matches the Kiwi's bottom out force. Factors such as weight and personal preference will determine the choice between these switches, with the Kiwi offering a lighter typing experience and the Polaris Gray potentially providing a stronger push feel.

Travel distance

Both the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. Therefore, both switches will provide a similar tactile sensation and overall typing experience in terms of the distance you feel when pressing down on a key.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When comparing the subjective qualities of the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, it is important to consider both the sound and feel of each switch.

In terms of sound, both the Kiwi and Polaris Gray switches are described as low-pitched. Low-pitched switches have a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Additionally, both switches are described as having a neutral sound profile, which means they have a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile suitable for most intents and purposes. It is worth noting that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps. Overall, both switches offer a satisfying sound profile, providing an immersive typing experience.

Moving on to feel, the Kiwi switch offers a stepped and accented feel. Stepped switches have two stages, providing a mild tactile bump and allowing users to feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel. Accented switches, on the other hand, offer a medium amount of tactility without being overwhelming or too subtle. Additionally, the Kiwi switch is described as polished, meaning it has a smooth and refined finish that results in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switch provides a mild feel, offering a gentle typing experience without pronounced characteristics. Similar to the Kiwi switch, the Polaris Gray switch is also described as polished, indicating a smooth and sleek typing experience.

Considering the available information, both the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch offer desirable qualities. They both provide a satisfying sound profile, with a low-pitched and neutral sound that is suitable for most users. In terms of feel, the Kiwi switch offers a stepped and accented tactile experience, while the Polaris Gray switch provides a mild and gentle typing experience. Both switches are also described as polished, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel. Therefore, if you prefer a bouncy tactile experience, the Kiwi switch would be a great choice, while the Polaris Gray switch offers a more mild and approachable typing feel.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch that enhances your typing experience with a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, the TKC Kiwi would be a great choice. These switches offer a satisfyingly snappy sound profile for a truly immersive typing experience. Additionally, the Kiwi switches are lightly factory lubed, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience right out of the box. On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy typing experience with a clean and clacky sound profile, the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches would be a good fit. Both switches have a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is medium-heavy, and produce a low-pitched sound. However, the Kiwi switches are described as stepped and accented, offering a more detailed tactility, while the Polaris Gray switches are described as mild, providing a gentler typing experience. Overall, the choice between the TKC Kiwi and SP-Star Polaris Gray ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for.

Mentioned in this article

TKC Kiwi Tactile

$8.00 per 10

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SP-Star Polaris Gray Linear

$5.60

$5.00 per 10

Learn more