Outemu Silent White vs. SP-Star Polaris Gray
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent White and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing the Outemu Silent White and the SP-Star Polaris Gray mechanical keyboard switches, there are some key differences to consider. The Silent White is a linear switch, known for its smooth keystrokes and quiet operation. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray is also a linear switch but stands out for its bouncy typing experience and clean, clacky sound profile. While the Silent White may appeal to those who value a silent typing experience, the Polaris Gray is favored by those who enjoy a more tactile and audible feedback while typing. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Polycarbonate
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Silent White and the SP-Star Polaris Gray, it is evident that both switches use polycarbonate for their top housing. This results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal material for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. However, while the Silent White's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, the Polaris Gray utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, mirroring the qualities of the top housing for a consistent sound experience throughout the switch.
Despite the similarities in both switches using polycarbonate for their top housing, the difference in bottom housing materials between the Outemu Silent White and the SP-Star Polaris Gray affects the overall sound profile. The Silent White's nylon bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound experience when typing, compared to the crisper sound produced by the Polaris Gray's polycarbonate bottom housing. This shows how the material composition of the housing can significantly impact the auditory experience of using the switches, with nylon providing a softer feel and polycarbonate delivering a sharper sound.
Ultimately, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the Outemu Silent White offers a unique typing experience with a blend of sharper and fuller sound profiles. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray maintains consistency in sound by using polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing. Both switches showcase the importance of housing materials in creating distinct sound profiles, with each material bringing its own characteristics to the overall typing experience. Whether you prefer a deeper sound with the Silent White or a crisper sound with the Polaris Gray, the choice of housing material can make a significant difference in the overall feel and sound of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
When comparing the Outemu Silent White linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, it is evident that they both fall within the medium to medium-heavy range in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Silent White requires an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the Polaris Gray's actuation force is unknown and it has a bottom out force of 67 grams. In terms of weight, the Silent White is lighter, which may be preferred for extended typing sessions or gaming marathons, while the Polaris Gray offers a heavier typing experience for those seeking a more substantial feel while typing. Despite the slight differences in force requirements, both switches provide a responsive typing experience with similar results. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Outemu Silent White linear switch boasts a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch offers a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances preferred by gamers for faster response times. The Silent White switch with its 3.3 mm travel distance may provide a quicker and more responsive typing experience compared to the Polaris Gray switch with its 4 mm travel distance. However, some users may find the shorter travel distance to feel too abrupt, while others may appreciate the hearty depth offered by the longer travel distance of the Polaris Gray switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference for typing feel and response.
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 Silent White 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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Silent White switch is known for its silent operation, lacking the audible click or clack typically associated with mechanical switches. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone that is clean and clacky. The Polaris Gray switch also has a thocky sound, producing a deep and satisfying sound when pressed. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, so it's essential to consider the overall setup for the desired sound experience.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Silent White switch's specific qualities are not mentioned. In contrast, the SP-Star Polaris Gray switch is described as providing a mild and polished typing experience. The mild characteristic offers a gentler typing feel compared to more pronounced switches, making it approachable to most users. Additionally, the polished finish of the Polaris Gray switch results in smooth key travel and reduced friction, enhancing the overall typing experience.
Overall, while the Outemu Silent White and SP-Star Polaris Gray switches offer different sound and feel experiences, both are suitable for users looking for linear switches without a tactile bump. If sound is a priority, the Silent White may be preferred for its silent operation, whereas those who enjoy a bouncy typing experience and clean, clacky sound may lean towards the Polaris Gray. When it comes to feel, the polished and mild characteristics of the Polaris Gray switch may appeal to users seeking a smooth and refined typing feel. Ultimately, personal preferences and typing style will play a significant role in determining which switch is the best fit.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Silent White linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, consider the factors of bottom out force, sound profile, and typing experience. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a quieter typing experience, the Silent White switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a slightly heavier bottom out force and a bouncier typing feel with a clean and clacky sound profile, the Polaris Gray switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound in order to choose the switch that best suits your needs.
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