Gateron Melodic vs. SP-Star Polaris Gray
An in-depth look at the Gateron Melodic and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Melodic and SP-Star Polaris Gray offer distinct typing experiences. The Gateron Melodic is a clicky switch that brings back the beloved clicky sound and tactile feedback with the added benefit of smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems for a buttery and invigorating typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray is a linear switch that provides a bouncy and clean typing experience, with a low-pitched and polished sound profile. While the Melodic switch is best for those who enjoy a crunchy and resonant typing experience, the Polaris Gray switch is perfect for individuals who prefer a mild and thocky feel while typing. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Melodic and the SP-Star Polaris Gray feature polycarbonate top housing materials, which result in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when typing. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which allows for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, both switches are translucent, making them ideal for use with RGB lighting to create a visually appealing effect. However, the Melodic's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Polaris Gray's polycarbonate bottom housing, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. This contrast in bottom housing materials can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of the switches.
One significant difference between the Gateron Melodic and the SP-Star Polaris Gray is their choice of bottom housing materials. The Melodic's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound and creates a deeper, fuller sound profile, enhancing the typing experience. In contrast, the Polaris Gray's polycarbonate bottom housing, like its top housing, contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile. This difference in bottom housing materials can result in a noticeable variation in the typing sound and feel between the two switches.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches plays a crucial role in determining the sound and feel of typing on a keyboard. While both the Gateron Melodic and the SP-Star Polaris Gray utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, their differing bottom housing materials result in distinct sound profiles. The Melodic's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, while the Polaris Gray's polycarbonate bottom housing creates a sharper and crisper sound. Understanding how different housing materials interact can help keyboard enthusiasts make informed decisions when selecting switches for their keyboards.
Weight
The actuation force of the Gateron Melodic clicky switch is None grams, while the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch also has an actuation force of None grams. This means that both switches require the same amount of force to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Melodic switch has a bottom out force of 60 grams, which is considered medium, while the Polaris Gray switch has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy. This means that the Polaris Gray switch will provide a slightly heavier typing experience compared to the Melodic switch. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation and bottom out force of the Melodic switch for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may prefer the heavier feel of the Polaris Gray switch for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the travel distance of these two switches, it can be noted that they both provide a similar tactile experience in terms of how far the switch travels when pressed. This means that whether you opt for the Melodic clicky switch or the Polaris Gray linear switch, you can expect comparable results in terms of travel distance. The equal travel distance of 4mm for both switches ensures that users will have a consistent typing experience regardless of which switch they choose.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Melodic has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Melodic for $6.00.
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 Gateron Melodic clicky switch is best known for its resonant and crunchy sound profile, providing users with a clean and sharp auditory experience reminiscent of stepping on piles of autumn leaves. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch offers a low-pitched, thocky sound that is bass-heavy and mellow, making it suitable for a variety of environments and preferences. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Melodic switch is praised for its buttery and invigorating keystroke experience, providing users with a smooth, fluid typing sensation along with pronounced feedback and reactive feel. Conversely, the SP-Star Polaris Gray switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, with a gentle feel that appeals to a wide range of users and a smooth, refined finish that reduces friction and enhances key travel.
Overall, while the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch offer different sound profiles and tactile experiences, both switches excel in providing users with high-quality performance and reliability. Whether you prefer a louder, more tactile switch like the Melodic or a quieter, smoother switch like the Polaris Gray, both options are sure to satisfy your typing needs. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, consider your preferences for sound and feel. If you enjoy a resonant and crunchy sound profile along with a buttery and invigorating typing feel, the Melodic switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a low-pitched and thocky sound profile paired with a mild and polished typing feel, the Polaris Gray switch could be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the decision will come down to your personal preference for sound and tactile feedback in a mechanical keyboard switch. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences for an enhanced typing experience.
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