Outemu Peach vs. SP-Star Polaris Gray
An in-depth look at the Outemu Peach and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two options that stand out are the Outemu Outemu Peach and the SP-Star Polaris Gray. While both switches fall under the linear category, they offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Outemu Peach switches are highly regarded for their lightweight nature and silenced operation, providing linear enthusiasts with a feathery light typing experience. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switches are favored for their bouncy typing sensation and clean, clacky sound profile. While these general pointers can certainly influence your decision, it's essential to delve deeper into the specific qualities of each switch to determine which one suits your needs best.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
40g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
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 Outemu Peach and the SP-Star Polaris Gray have different materials for both their top and bottom housings. The Outemu Peach utilizes a nylon top housing, while the Polaris Gray features a polycarbonate top housing. Nylon is known for its softer nature, absorbing more sound and creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. In contrast, polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that produces a sharper and crisper sound profile. This means that the Outemu Peach will offer a duller and rounder sound, while the Polaris Gray will provide a clearer and resonant sound.
Similarly, the bottom housings of the two switches also differ. The Outemu Peach incorporates a nylon bottom housing, while the Polaris Gray incorporates a polycarbonate bottom housing. Again, the softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound and creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the stiffer polycarbonate used in the Polaris Gray's bottom housing produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound, offering a more clear and resonant sound profile.
It's important to note that the impact of the housing materials varies depending on whether you are pressing down on a key or releasing it. The qualities of the bottom housing material, whether nylon or polycarbonate, have a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down a key. Conversely, the top housing material, whether nylon or polycarbonate, plays a more prominent role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, the choice of housing material can have a noticeable influence on the overall typing experience with these switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Peach linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, there are some notable differences. The Outemu Peach has an actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter switch overall. This lighter actuation force allows for smoother and quicker keystrokes, making it suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch when typing or gaming for longer periods of time. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray's actuation force is unavailable, but its bottom out force is 67 grams, indicating a medium-heavy switch. This heavier force provides a more substantial typing experience, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push feel when typing. While the exact actuation force of the Polaris Gray is unknown, it can be inferred that it might be heavier or similar to its bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to individual preference, with the Outemu Peach offering a lighter touch and the Polaris Gray providing a more robust typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Outemu Peach linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, it is evident that there is a difference between the two. The Outemu Peach has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the Polaris Gray has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Polaris Gray has a longer travel distance compared to the Outemu Peach.
In terms of preference, the choice between these switches depends on the individual's needs and preferences. If speed and responsiveness are important factors, opting for the Outemu Peach with its shorter travel distance might be more suitable. Gamers, for example, often prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times in their gameplay.
On the other hand, if a deeper keystroke and a more substantial feel are desired, the Polaris Gray, with its longer travel distance, might be the better choice. Some individuals find short travel distances to feel too abrupt, and they may prefer the more tactile experience provided by switches with longer travel distances.
Ultimately, it boils down to personal preference and the specific requirements of the user. Both the Outemu Peach and the Polaris Gray offer unique characteristics and can deliver satisfying typing experiences, albeit with differences in 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 Peach comes in at $3.40 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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Peach switches are best described as having a neutral and muted sound profile. The neutral characteristic means that these switches have a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making them suitable for most users and purposes. The muted quality of the Outemu Peach switches results in a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches. This makes them a great choice for those who prefer a more subdued auditory experience when typing on a mechanical keyboard.
On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switches have a low-pitched, neutral, and thocky sound profile. The low-pitched characteristic gives these switches a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to switches with higher-pitched sound profiles. Similar to the Outemu Peach, the Polaris Gray switches also feature a neutral actuation force requirement and sound profile, making them versatile for various users and settings. Additionally, the thocky quality of the Polaris Gray switches produces a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed and released, resembling a deep "thud" or a soft "knock." This can enhance the typing experience for those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback.
In terms of feel, both the Outemu Peach and Polaris Gray switches offer a mild and polished typing experience. The mild characteristic of these switches provides a gentle and approachable typing experience, with qualities that fall within a safe middle-ground zone. This makes them suitable for most users, ensuring a comfortable and satisfying typing feel. Additionally, both switches feature a polished finish, which results in a smooth and refined typing experience. This can be attributed to the materials used and/or factory lubing, reducing friction and providing smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the Outemu Peach and Polaris Gray switches have distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Outemu Peach switches are best known for their lightweight and silenced nature, offering a feathery light typing experience with a neutral and muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switches provide a bouncy typing experience with a low-pitched, neutral, and thocky sound profile. Both switches offer a mild and polished typing feel, ensuring a gentle and comfortable experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. While they differ in specific characteristics, both switches provide satisfying options for linear switch enthusiasts. Depending on personal preferences and the intended usage, users can expect similar results of a pleasant typing experience with either switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are someone who values a feather-light typing experience and prefers a quieter keyboard, then the Outemu Peach linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. These switches have a bottom out force of 50 grams, making them very lightweight, and they are also silenced, resulting in a muted sound profile. This combination of lightness and quietness makes them perfect for linear lovers who want a gentle and noise-free typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy typing experience and enjoy a slightly heavier switch, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch would be more suitable for you. With a bottom out force of 67 grams, these switches provide a slightly more medium-heavy feel, offering a different tactile feedback. They are described as having a clean and clacky sound profile, making them a great option for those who enjoy a more pronounced typing experience.
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Peach switch produces a softer and quieter sound, thanks to its muted characteristics. This makes it ideal for shared spaces or environments where noise may be a concern. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switch has a low-pitched sound, which delivers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. This can be particularly enjoyable for those who prefer a deeper and richer sound profile.
In terms of feel, both the Outemu Peach and Polaris Gray switches offer a mild typing experience. They fall within a safe and middle-ground zone, providing a gentle resistance and approachable qualities. Additionally, both switches are described as polished, meaning they have a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, your choice between the Outemu Peach and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing style. Consider factors such as bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel to determine which switch aligns best with your needs. Regardless of your choice, both switches offer their own unique characteristics that can enhance your typing experience.
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