Outemu Crystal Brown vs. SP-Star Polaris Gray
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal Brown and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Outemu Crystal Brown and the SP-Star Polaris Gray mechanical keyboard switches, you'll find yourself faced with the decision between a tactile switch and a linear switch, respectively. The Crystal Brown is known for its tactile feedback, making it ideal for those who enjoy a bit of resistance and feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray offers a smooth and consistent typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a more fluid and bouncy feel. Both switches have their own unique sound profiles, with the Crystal Brown being described as None and the Polaris Gray having a clean and clacky sound. 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
55g
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
Partial box
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Crystal Brown and the SP-Star Polaris Gray, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting for a visually appealing experience. However, the Crystal Brown's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder sound compared to the Polaris Gray's polycarbonate bottom housing.
While the top housing of both switches shares the qualities of polycarbonate, the differences in their bottom housing material will affect the overall sound and feel of the switch. The Crystal Brown's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Polaris Gray's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains a sharper and crisper sound. When pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing will have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, whereas the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. This distinction highlights how the choice of housing material can directly affect the user's typing experience.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the Outemu Crystal Brown and SP-Star Polaris Gray switches offer different sound profiles and typing experiences. While both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper sound profile and RGB compatibility, the Crystal Brown's nylon bottom housing delivers a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Polaris Gray's polycarbonate bottom housing. Understanding how each housing material contributes to the overall sound and feel of the switch can help users make informed decisions based on their preferences for typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch have distinct differences. The Crystal Brown has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Polaris Gray, which has an unknown actuation force. In terms of bottom out force, the Crystal Brown requires 55 grams, while the Polaris Gray needs 67 grams. The Crystal Brown offers a medium-light typing experience, while the Polaris Gray provides a medium-heavy feel. The lighter actuation force of the Crystal Brown may be preferred by individuals who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions, while the heavier bottom out force of the Polaris Gray might appeal to those seeking a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, we find that both switches have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent typing experience in terms of travel distance, ensuring that users will get similar results regardless of which switch they choose. Therefore, the travel distance for both switches is equal, making them equally suitable options for individuals seeking a specific key travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Outemu Crystal Brown comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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 Outemu Crystal Brown switch is known for its crisp and clear keypress sound. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray switch offers a low-pitched and thocky sound profile, creating a more bass-heavy and satisfying typing experience. The sound produced by these switches is highly dependent on the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Crystal Brown switch is recognized for its tactile feedback, providing a responsive and satisfying typing experience. In contrast, the SP-Star Polaris Gray switch offers a mild and polished feel, making it gentle on the fingers and smooth to the touch. This polished finish contributes to reduced friction and a sleek typing experience.
Overall, while the Outemu Crystal Brown switch excels in providing tactile feedback and clear sound, the SP-Star Polaris Gray switch offers a bouncy typing experience with low-pitched and thocky sound characteristics. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Crystal Brown leaning towards tactile enthusiasts and the Polaris Gray appealing to those seeking a smoother and more satisfying typing feel. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences in sound and feel.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, it really comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and are looking for a tactile typing experience, the Crystal Brown switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and enjoy a bouncier typing feel, the Polaris Gray switch could be the perfect fit. Additionally, if you are someone who appreciates a low-pitched, clean and clacky sound profile, the Polaris Gray switch may be more appealing to you. However, if you prefer a mild and polished typing experience, the Crystal Brown switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique qualities, so it really depends on what you value most in a keyboard switch.
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