KTT Matcha vs. SP-Star Polaris Gray
An in-depth look at the KTT Matcha 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 Matcha, a tactile switch, and the SP-Star Polaris Gray, a linear switch. The KTT Matcha stands out for its comfortable and snappy tactility, providing a satisfying typing experience. Additionally, users can expect a distinct and clean bottom-out sound thanks to its long pole stem. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switches are favored by those who prefer a bouncy typing feel. Known for their clean and clacky sound profile, these switches offer a unique tactile experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these general characteristics so that you can make the best decision and find the perfect keyboard switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Yes
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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The KTT Matcha and SP-Star Polaris Gray both feature polycarbonate top and bottom housings. This material choice creates a similar sound profile for both switches, characterized by sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp tones. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is advantageous for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows for a visually appealing illumination effect. Therefore, both the Matcha and Polaris Gray offer comparable sound and aesthetic qualities due to their shared polycarbonate housing materials.
While the top and bottom housings of the Matcha and Polaris Gray are made of the same polycarbonate material, their differences lie in their individual impact on the typing experience. When pressing down on these switches, the qualities of the bottom housing become more prominent, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. The stiff and clear properties of polycarbonate in the bottom housing contribute to a satisfying tactile response and a distinct sound when a key is fully pressed. On the other hand, the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound produced when letting go of a key. As such, the housing materials of the Matcha and Polaris Gray affect different aspects of the typing experience, highlighting the importance of both top and bottom housings.
Overall, the KTT Matcha and SP-Star Polaris Gray share the advantage of utilizing polycarbonate in both their top and bottom housings. This choice ensures a similar sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp sound profile for both switches. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the typing experience, while its translucency enables the utilization of RGB lighting effects. Although the top and bottom housings may have different impacts on the sound profile and feel when using the switches, they both contribute to a high-quality and satisfying typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, there are notable differences. The Matcha has a relatively light actuation force of 40 grams, meaning it requires a gentle push to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the actuation force of the Polaris Gray is unavailable, making it difficult to determine whether it is lighter or heavier. However, the bottom out force of the Matcha is 45 grams, still considered light. Comparatively, the Polaris Gray has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is medium-heavy.
Considered weight, or force, is an important factor to consider when choosing between these switches. Those who prefer a lighter switch may opt for the Matcha, as its actuation and bottom out forces are both relatively low. This lighter weight allows for longer typing sessions, making it ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may prefer the Polaris Gray. With a potentially heavier actuation force and a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Polaris Gray provides a stronger and more resistant pushing sensation.
In summary, the Matcha offers a lighter typing experience with its lower actuation and bottom out forces, while the Polaris Gray provides a potentially heavier and more robust feel with its undisclosed actuation force and medium-heavy bottom out force.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key, you will feel the switch travel a distance of 4 mm from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of the travel distance, both switches will provide similar results.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Matcha has an MSRP of $5.20 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Matcha for $4.88.
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 KTT Matcha tactile switch is known for its clean bottom-out sound, thanks to its long pole stem. This results in a distinctly crisp, bright, and percussive sound when the keys are pressed. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch is described as having a low-pitched sound profile, which is more bass-heavy and mellow compared to higher-pitched switches. Additionally, the Polaris Gray switch falls under the category of being thocky, as it produces a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed and released. It is important to note that the sound of these switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps. Overall, both switches offer unique sound profiles, with the Matcha being clacky and clean, while the Polaris Gray is low-pitched and thocky.
Moving on to the feel of these switches, the KTT Matcha tactile switch provides a comfortable and snappy tactility when typing. It falls under the category of being stepped, meaning it has two stages of tactile feedback. This results in a more mild tactile experience compared to hypertactile switches. The Matcha switch is also described as snappy, indicating its high responsiveness, and as accented, meaning it provides a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming or scratchy. Additionally, the Matcha switch is feathery, as it requires little exertion and reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch is described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience with a safe middle-ground feel. It is also polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that allows for a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches offer different tactile experiences, with the Matcha being stepped, snappy, accented, and feathery, while the Polaris Gray is mild and polished.
Taking into account the available information, the KTT Matcha tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch offer distinct differences in both sound and feel. The Matcha switch provides a clean and clacky sound with a comfortable and snappy tactile feel. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switch features a low-pitched sound profile that is thocky, along with a mild and polished feel. Therefore, if one prefers a sharper and crisper sound with a stepped and feathery feel, the Matcha switch would be an excellent choice. Conversely, if a bouncy typing experience with a low-pitched and polished sound, along with a safe middle-ground feel, is preferred, the Polaris Gray switch would be a great option. Although the switches offer different qualities, it is important to note that individual preferences play a significant role in determining which switch would be the most suitable.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a tactile switch with a light bottom out force and a comfortable, snappy tactility, the KTT Matcha would be a great choice for you. You can expect a clean bottom-out sound and a keyboard switch that feels stepped, snappy, accented, feathery, and subtle. On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy typing experience and a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the SP-Star Polaris Gray is the way to go. These switches offer a clean and clacky sound profile and provide a mild and polished typing experience. Overall, the decision between the KTT Matcha and the SP-Star Polaris Gray depends on your personal preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel.
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