KTT Miaowu vs. SP-Star Polaris Gray
An in-depth look at the KTT Miaowu and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Miaowu and the SP-Star Polaris Gray both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The KTT Miaowu is a linear switch that stands out for its enhanced stem stability and smoother keystroke action, thanks to the utilization of POK in its stem. Known for its bouncy and clacky feel, the Miaowu switch is ideal for those who enjoy a more tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray is also a linear switch but is favored for its bouncy typing experience and clean, clacky sound profile. Categorized as low-pitched, neutral, mild, thocky, and polished, the Polaris Gray switch appeals to those seeking a more refined and polished typing experience. 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
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
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
Gold-plated
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The KTT Miaowu and the SP-Star Polaris Gray both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This material is particularly suitable for switches that plan to use RGB lighting, thanks to its translucency. However, while the Miaowu pairs its polycarbonate top with a nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound profile, the Polaris Gray opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing for a more resonant sound.
In terms of sound profile, the Miaowu's combination of polycarbonate and nylon housings offers a balance between sharpness and depth, creating a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray's all-polycarbonate construction likely delivers a more consistent and clear sound profile, emphasizing sharpness and clarity. Both switches prioritize sound quality, but their choice of materials leads to slightly different results.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Miaowu and the SP-Star Polaris Gray will come down to personal preference. If you prefer a switch with a deeper and fuller sound profile, the Miaowu's nylon bottom housing may be more appealing. However, if you value a crisper and higher-pitched sound, the Polaris Gray's all-polycarbonate construction might be the better option. Regardless of the housing materials, both switches promise a satisfying typing experience, with each material contributing its own unique characteristics to the overall sound and feel of the switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Miaowu linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, it is evident that the Miaowu switch is lighter in both aspects. The Miaowu switch has an actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option overall. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switch has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, although the actuation force is unknown. The weight of a switch is important as it can impact typing comfort and fatigue. Some users prefer a lighter switch for longer typing sessions, while others may prefer a heavier switch for a more substantial feel. In this case, those looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the Miaowu switch, while those seeking a heavier typing feel may lean towards the Polaris Gray switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT Miaowu linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Miaowu offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Polaris Gray, making it a popular choice among gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray provides a bit more depth in its travel distance, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial key press feel. Both switches offer different tactile experiences due to their travel distances, allowing users to choose based on their individual preferences. Ultimately, the Miaowu and Polaris Gray switches cater to different needs in terms of travel distance, with the Miaowu being shorter and the Polaris Gray being longer.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Miaowu has an MSRP of $4.32 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Miaowu for $3.71.
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 Miaowu linear switch is known for its clacky sound profile, producing a sharp and snappy noise when pressed. This gives users a crisp and bright auditory feedback during typing. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch offers a low-pitched sound that is more bass-heavy and mellow. Additionally, the Polaris Gray switch is described as thocky, providing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound experience when keys are pressed and released. Depending on your preference, the Miaowu switch may be more suitable for those who enjoy a sharper and more percussive sound, while the Polaris Gray switch would appeal to users seeking a deeper and more resonant typing experience.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the KTT Miaowu linear switch is characterized as bouncy, providing a spring-like and elastic feedback sensation. This gives users a lively feel and rebound when pressing the keys. In contrast, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch offers a mild typing experience, with a gentle and approachable feel that falls within a safe middle-ground zone. Additionally, the Polaris Gray switch is described as polished, meaning it offers a smooth and refined finish that results in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Depending on your preference for a more lively and bouncy typing experience or a smoother and polished feel, you may prefer the Miaowu switch or the Polaris Gray switch accordingly.
Overall, when comparing the subjective qualities of the KTT Miaowu linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, they offer distinct sound and feel profiles that cater to different preferences. The Miaowu switch provides a clacky and bouncy typing experience, suited for those who enjoy a sharp and lively sound with elastic feedback. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switch offers a low-pitched and polished feel, ideal for users seeking a more bass-heavy and mellow sound with a smooth and refined key travel. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on whether you prioritize a sharper sound and bouncy feel or a deeper sound and polished sensation during typing.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the KTT Miaowu linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound, and feel. If you prefer a light bottom out force of 50 grams and a smoother keystroke action with enhanced stem stability, the Miaowu switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you lean towards a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams and enjoy a bouncy typing experience with a clean and clacky sound profile, the Polaris Gray switch would be a better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound characteristics. Remember to try out both switches if possible to determine which one suits your typing style best.
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