SP-Star Meteor White vs. SP-Star Polaris Gray
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor White and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the SP-Star Meteor White and the SP-Star Polaris Gray. The Meteor White is a linear switch that is best known for its subdued and gentle nature. This switch is easy to push and offers a soft, pitter-patter sound profile, making it a great choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray is also a linear switch but is loved for its bouncy typing experience. It has a clean and clacky sound profile, which some may find more satisfying. Both switches are categorized as neutral and mild, but the Meteor White leans towards a thocky and polished feel while the Polaris Gray is low-pitched and polished. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
57g
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
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The SP-Star Meteor White and the SP-Star Polaris Gray differ in terms of their housing materials, impacting the sound profile and aesthetics of the switches. The Meteor White features a nylon top and bottom housing, while the Polaris Gray utilizes a polycarbonate material for both the top and bottom housing.
In terms of sound profile, the nylon top housing of the Meteor White creates a deeper and fuller sound when typing. Being a softer plastic, nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of the Polaris Gray produces a sharper and crisper sound. As a relatively stiffer plastic, polycarbonate leads to a more clear and resonant sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for incorporating RGB lighting, enhancing the overall visual appeal of the switches.
Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the Meteor White contributes to the deeper and fuller sound profile when pressing down on the switch. Its softer nature absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder bottom-out sound. In contrast, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Polaris Gray creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound when bottoming out. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate leads to a more clear and resonant bottom-out sound.
Overall, while the top and bottom housing materials differ between the Meteor White and Polaris Gray, the impact on the sound profile remains consistent. The softer nylon material of the Meteor White results in a deeper and fuller sound, while the stiffer polycarbonate of the Polaris Gray produces a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate offers the advantage of showcasing RGB lighting. Whether it's the top or bottom housing, each material brings distinct qualities that provide a unique typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, it is important to consider their weight. Unfortunately, the actuation force of both switches is unavailable, so we cannot compare them in that aspect. However, we do know that the Meteor White has a bottom out force of 57 grams, which can be considered medium-light, while the Polaris Gray has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is medium-heavy.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Meteor White switch would be more suitable, as it allows for longer periods of comfortable typing. This would be ideal for individuals who use their keyboards extensively for work or engage in extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, for users who prefer a stronger, more substantial typing feel, the Polaris Gray switch with its medium-heavy bottom out force may be more appealing.
Although we lack information on the actuation force of both switches, if they happen to be the same, users can expect similar results in terms of triggering keystrokes. However, it is important to note that the Polaris Gray switch is heavier in terms of bottom out force compared to the Meteor White switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches travel 4 mm from the top to the bottom when pressed, giving users a similar tactile experience. Whether typing or gaming, the travel distance of these switches ensures a consistent response and feedback. As a result, users can expect similar results in terms of key press depth and overall feel when using either of these switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Meteor White has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor White for $5.00.
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 SP-Star Meteor White linear switch offers a gentle and subdued experience. It has a soft sound profile that can be described as a pitter-patter sound. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch provides a clean and clacky sound profile. It is known for its bouncy typing experience. While both switches are described as having a neutral sound profile, the Meteor White switch is also characterized as thocky, producing a deep and satisfying sound when pressed. The Polaris Gray switch, on the other hand, is described as low-pitched, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, both the Meteor White and Polaris Gray switches provide a mild and gentle typing experience. The feel is approachable to most users, as the switches have qualities that fall within a safe middle-ground zone. Both switches are also described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience. This can be attributed to the materials used or factory lubing, which reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel.
Considering the available information, it is clear that the SP-Star Meteor White and Polaris Gray linear switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Meteor White switch is characterized by a soft and gentle sound profile, along with a thocky attribute. Its feel is described as mild and polished. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switch provides a clean and clacky sound profile, with a low-pitched quality. The feel is also mild and polished. These switches would cater to different preferences in terms of typing experience and auditory feedback. However, if you prefer a similar level of softness and smoothness, both switches would provide satisfactory results.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a gentle and soft linear switch, the SP-Star Meteor White would be the ideal choice for you. With a medium-light bottom out force of 57 grams, this switch is easy to push and offers a subtle pitter-patter sound profile. Its type feel is mild and polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction. In terms of sound, the Meteor White offers a neutral option with a moderate actuation force requirement, suitable for both beginners and advanced users, whether at home or work.
On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy typing experience with clean and clacky sound, the SP-Star Polaris Gray would be a great fit. With a slightly heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, this switch provides a medium-heavy sensation while typing. The sound profile of the Polaris Gray is described as low-pitched, featuring a bass-heavy and mellow tone. Just like the Meteor White, the Polaris Gray offers a mild and polished feel, ensuring a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the SP-Star Meteor White and the SP-Star Polaris Gray comes down to personal preference. If you enjoy a softer and subtle typing experience, the Meteor White is a fantastic option. On the other hand, if you prefer a more bouncy feel and a clean, clacky sound, the Polaris Gray would be the way to go. Consider your typing style and the type of sound you prefer to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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