Cherry MX Silent Red vs. SP-Star Polaris Gray
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Silent Red and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Cherry MX Silent Red and the SP-Star Polaris Gray mechanical keyboard switches, one key difference stands out: their sound profiles. The MX Silent Red is a linear switch that operates silently, offering a satisfying typing experience with a significantly quieter sound profile, making it perfect for noise-sensitive environments. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switch also linear, delivers a bouncy typing experience with a clean and clacky sound profile. While MX Silent Red is characterized as 'Muted', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', 'Textured', the Polaris Gray is labeled as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', 'Polished'. Each switch has its own unique advantages, ultimately catering to different preferences and needs. 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Cherry MX Silent Red and SP-Star Polaris Gray switches have different top and bottom housing materials, with the Silent Red featuring a nylon top and bottom housing, and the Polaris Gray utilizing a polycarbonate top and bottom housing. The nylon housing of the Silent Red switch creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound and results in a duller and rounder sound. Conversely, the polycarbonate housing of the Polaris Gray switch produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile because of its stiffer plastic composition, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the clear nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, while nylon offers a classic switch housing material choice.
In terms of sound and feel, the qualities of the housing materials in each switch are split between the top and bottom housing components. When pressing down on a switch, the bottom housing material impacts the bottom-out sound and feel, with the Silent Red's nylon housing offering a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Polaris Gray's polycarbonate housing provides a sharper and crisper sound. On the other hand, the top housing material has more of an impact on the sound when releasing a key, with the Silent Red's nylon top housing creating a duller and rounder sound, and the Polaris Gray's polycarbonate top housing offering a clear and resonant sound. Despite the differences, both switches aim to enhance the overall typing experience through their distinct housing materials.
Ultimately, the choice between the Cherry MX Silent Red and SP-Star Polaris Gray switches comes down to personal preference and the desired sound profile. The nylon housing of the Silent Red switch is better suited for users looking for a deeper and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate housing of the Polaris Gray switch appeals to those who prefer a sharper and crisper sound. Aesthetically, the clear polycarbonate housing is ideal for RGB lighting enthusiasts, while the classic nylon housing offers a timeless look. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, showcasing the impact that housing materials can have on the overall typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, it is clear that they offer different options for users with varying preferences. The MX Silent Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it easier to type for extended periods without causing fatigue. However, the bottom out force for this switch is unknown, which may be a drawback for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switch has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a more solid and satisfying keystroke feel. While the actuation force for the Polaris Gray is unknown, the heavier bottom out force suggests that it may require more force to trigger a keystroke compared to the MX Silent Red. In terms of weight, those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the MX Silent Red, while those who prefer a heavier push feel may choose the SP-Star Polaris Gray for a more robust typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and actuation force.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Polaris Gray switch slightly longer in terms of travel distance compared to the MX Silent Red. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the MX Silent Red being on the shorter side and the Polaris Gray being slightly longer. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Cherry MX Silent Red switch with its shorter travel distance, while users who prefer a more substantial key press may lean towards the SP-Star Polaris Gray switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and key feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
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 Cherry MX Silent Red switch is best described as muted, thocky, and low-pitched, offering a softer and quieter typing experience with a deep and satisfying thud-like sound. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray switch is noted for its low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone suitable for various settings. Both switches boast a thocky sound characteristic, making them enjoyable to type on without being overly loud, ideal for different preferences and environments.
Moving on to the feel, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch is described as having a slightly textured feel, which may appeal to some users who prefer a bit of friction in their typing experience. Conversely, the SP-Star Polaris Gray switch offers a mild and polished feel, providing a smoother and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. These qualities make the Polaris Gray switch approachable and comfortable for most users, especially those who enjoy a more gentle typing sensation.
In conclusion, while the Cherry MX Silent Red and SP-Star Polaris Gray switches exhibit some differences in sound and feel, they both offer excellent options for those seeking a linear switch with unique qualities. The MX Silent Red provides a quieter typing experience with a textured feel, while the SP-Star Polaris Gray delivers a clean sound profile and polished feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and typing sensation, both switches can offer a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience. Ultimately, whether you choose the Cherry MX Silent Red or SP-Star Polaris Gray switch, you can expect to achieve similar results in terms of overall performance and comfort.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch that provides a silent typing experience but maintains a slightly heftier feel, then the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch is the way to go. This switch is ideal for noise-sensitive environments where you still want a satisfying typing experience without the loud clicky noise. On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy typing experience with clean and clacky sound profiles, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch is the better choice for you. These switches offer a moderate actuation force requirement and a more gentle typing experience, making them suitable for a wide range of users. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to your personal preferences in terms of sound and feel.
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