Outemu Milk Blue vs. SP-Star Polaris Gray

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Milk Blue and SP-Star Polaris Gray offer different typing experiences for users to consider. The Milk Blue is a clicky switch, known for its satisfying tactile feedback and audible click sound. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray is a linear switch preferred by those who enjoy a smooth keystroke without any audible feedback. While the Milk Blue provides a more pronounced typing experience with its clicky sound, the Polaris Gray offers a quieter and smoother typing experience. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that appeal to different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Outemu Milk Blue Clicky

SP-Star Polaris Gray Linear

$3.10 per 10

$5.60

$5.00 per 10

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Housing materials

In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Milk Blue and the SP-Star Polaris Gray, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice of material creates a sharper, crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, resulting in a more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. However, the difference lies in the bottom housing, with the Milk Blue opting for a nylon bottom while the Polaris Gray utilizes a polycarbonate bottom. The nylon bottom of the Milk Blue produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and creating a rounder tone.

When it comes to the feel and sound of pressing down on the switches, the bottom housing will play a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel. The nylon bottom housing of the Milk Blue will provide a smoother, more muted sound when compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Polaris Gray, which will offer a sharper and more resonant bottom-out experience. On the other hand, the top housing plays a major role in the sound that occurs when releasing a key. Both switches' polycarbonate top housings will contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile when keys are released, enhancing the overall typing experience.

Although the Outemu Milk Blue and the SP-Star Polaris Gray feature different bottom housings, their shared use of polycarbonate in the top housing ensures that they will deliver similar results in terms of sound profile and resonance. Both switches will provide a distinct typing experience with a sharper and crisper sound profile when keys are released, thanks to the stiffness of polycarbonate. While the nylon bottom housing of the Milk Blue may offer a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Polaris Gray's polycarbonate bottom, the overall typing experience will be enhanced by the unique combination of housing materials in each switch.

Weight

The Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Polaris Gray has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams compared to the Milk Blue, which has an unknown bottom out force. This means that the Milk Blue will provide a lighter typing experience in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke, while the Polaris Gray will offer a more substantial push feel when pressing all the way down. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer sessions, the Milk Blue may be the better option, while the Polaris Gray would be suitable for those who enjoy a heavier typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, it is evident that both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom when pressed, users can expect similar results from both switches. As a result, whether you opt for the Milk Blue clicky switch or the Polaris Gray linear switch, you can enjoy a consistent travel distance experience with each key press.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch is known for providing a crisp and high-pitched clicky sound when typing. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch is described as having a low-pitched, clean and clacky sound profile. The Milk Blue switch offers a more sharp and distinct sound with each keystroke, while the Polaris Gray switch provides a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Depending on your preference, the Milk Blue switch may be preferred for those who enjoy a more pronounced and clicky sound, while the Polaris Gray switch might be favored for its smoother and lower-pitched sound.

When it comes to feel, the Outemu Milk Blue switch does not have a specific descriptor provided, while the SP-Star Polaris Gray switch is characterized as having a mild and polished typing experience. A mild switch typically offers a more gentle typing feel, which in combination with its polished finish results in a smooth and refined keystroke. The Milk Blue switch's feel is subjective, but users generally appreciate it for its tactile feedback and audible click. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switch offers a comfortable and approachable typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.

Overall, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch offer distinct sound and feel profiles that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer a sharp and clicky sound with tactile feedback or a smooth and mellow tone with a polished typing experience, both switches provide unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience. Keep in mind that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard layout, keycaps, and typing style. Ultimately, testing out both switches on a keyboard is the best way to determine which one suits your preferences and typing needs.

Conclusion

In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a loud and tactile typing experience with a bouncy feel, the Milk Blue switch might be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and softer typing experience with a cleaner sound profile, the Polaris Gray switch could be a better fit. Ultimately, selecting the right switch comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you value the most. Consider these factors to make an informed decision on which switch will best suit your needs.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Milk Blue Clicky

$3.10 per 10

Learn more

SP-Star Polaris Gray Linear

$5.60

$5.00 per 10

Learn more