Cherry MX Brown vs. SP-Star Polaris Gray

Overview

When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two options that often come up are the Cherry MX Brown and the SP-Star Polaris Gray. The Cherry MX Brown is widely recognized for its subtlety, offering a light typing experience with gentle tactility and subdued audio feedback. It falls under the categories of being textured, bassy, and low-pitched. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray is loved by those who prefer a bouncy typing experience. Its sound profile is clean and clacky, falling under the categories of low-pitched, neutral, mild, thocky, and polished. These general pointers give you an idea of the distinguishing features of each switch. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Cherry MX Brown Tactile

SP-Star Polaris Gray Linear

$4.00 per 10

$5.60

$5.00 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of Cherry MX Brown and SP-Star Polaris Gray switches differ significantly in terms of sound profiles and aesthetic qualities. The MX Brown utilizes a nylon top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound experience. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray features a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate's stiffer plastic leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the clear polycarbonate housing of the Polaris Gray is particularly useful for RGB lighting purposes, adding visual appeal to the switch.

While the top and bottom housings differ between the MX Brown and Polaris Gray, they share similarities in their use of nylon and polycarbonate respectively. Both materials are classic switch housing options, each offering unique characteristics to enhance the typing experience. Nylon, found in the MX Brown, elicits a deeper and fuller sound when typing due to its softer plastic nature and sound-absorbing properties. Similarly, polycarbonate, used in the Polaris Gray, provides a sharp and clear sound profile attributed to its stiffer plastic composition. Therefore, if you desire a switch with either nylon or polycarbonate housing, you can expect similar sound outcomes despite other contrasting qualities between the two switches.

Furthermore, the differences in the top and bottom housing materials of both switches contribute to distinct sound experiences when using the keyboards. When pressing down on a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing play a significant role in the sound and feel of the bottom-out action. The bottom housing's impact on sound is especially notable during key presses. On the other hand, the top housing's characteristics become more prominent when releasing a key, affecting the sound produced upon key release. Therefore, the choice of housing materials in a switch can directly influence the overall sound qualities experienced during typing or gaming sessions.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, we can see some key differences. The MX Brown has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it a medium-light switch. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray's actuation force is unavailable, but its bottom out force is 67 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy.

Weight plays an important role in the typing experience for individuals, as it affects the duration and feel of typing. Those who prefer a lighter switch may find the MX Brown more suitable, as it allows for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. This makes it ideal for keyboards used in work environments or during long gaming sessions. Conversely, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may lean towards options with heavier forces. In this case, the Polaris Gray would be a better fit due to its higher bottom out force.

Although we do not have specific information on the actuation force of the Polaris Gray, we can assume that it falls within the medium to medium-heavy range, given its bottom out force. In terms of weight, the MX Brown can be considered lighter in comparison to the Polaris Gray, as its actuation and bottom out forces are lower. However, both switches provide tactile feedback and actuation points, ensuring a satisfying typing experience.

Travel distance

The Cherry MX Brown tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on the keys of both switches, you will experience a similar amount of distance traveled. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches will provide you with similar results.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Cherry MX Brown switches are best described as having a bassy and low-pitched sound profile. These switches offer a deeper and richer tone during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches also have a low-pitched sound profile, characterized by a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Additionally, the Polaris Gray switches are known for their thocky sound, which produces a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. 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, the Cherry MX Brown switches are known for their relatively light and gentle tactility. They offer a subtle texture, which some users prefer for a slightly scratchy feel when typing. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches provide a mild and approachable typing experience. They have a more gentle feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Additionally, the Polaris Gray switches are considered polished, resulting in a smooth and refined finish. This smoothness reduces friction and ensures a sleek typing experience.

Considering the available information, the Cherry MX Brown switches offer a subtler typing experience with a light touch and gentle tactility. They produce a bassy sound that can be characterized by a lower frequency range. In contrast, the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches provide a bouncy typing experience with a clean and clacky sound profile. They offer a mild feel with a polished finish for reduced friction. If you prefer a lighter and gentler typing experience with a subtler sound, the Cherry MX Brown switches would be the ideal choice. However, if you enjoy a bouncy typing experience with a clean and clacky sound, the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches would be a suitable option. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on your personal preference for typing feel and sound.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch with a relatively light typing experience and gentle tactility, the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch would be a great choice for you. These switches offer a subtle and subdued audio feedback which can be appealing to those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy typing experience and a clean, clacky sound profile, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch would be more suitable for you. With a slightly higher bottom out force, these switches offer a medium-heavy typing experience which may be preferred by those who prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback. Additionally, the Polaris Gray switches are described as having a low-pitched, bass-heavy sound profile, which can be satisfying to those who enjoy a deep and rich sound when pressing keys. Furthermore, if you value a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction, the Polaris Gray switches are described as polished, offering a sleek typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Cherry MX Brown and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches depends on your personal preferences for typing experience, sound profile, and feel.

Mentioned in this article

Cherry MX Brown Tactile

$4.00 per 10

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SP-Star Polaris Gray Linear

$5.60

$5.00 per 10

Learn more