KTT Peach vs. SP-Star Polaris Gray
An in-depth look at the KTT Peach and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, there are several factors to consider. Two popular options to explore are the KTT Peach, a linear switch, and the SP-Star Polaris Gray, also a linear switch. The Peach switch is highly regarded for its smooth typing experience and distinct deep, thocky sound profile. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switch is loved by those who prefer a bouncy typing experience and appreciate a clean, clacky sound profile. Both switches share similar characteristics such as being low-pitched, neutral, and mild, but the Polaris Gray switch also adds a touch of thockiness and polish to its repertoire. 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
53g
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
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
13mm progressive spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The KTT Peach and SP-Star Polaris Gray both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing material. This choice of material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for those seeking a precise and distinct typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the use of RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to these switches. Therefore, if you prioritize sound quality and enjoy customizable lighting effects, both the Peach and Polaris Gray switches will provide similar results.
However, the bottom housing materials of these switches differ. The Peach features a nylon bottom housing, while the Polaris Gray utilizes polycarbonate. Typing on switches with a nylon bottom housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softness of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the use of polycarbonate for the bottom housing in the Polaris Gray contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material's stiffness enhances clarity and resonance, providing a more distinct typing experience. The impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel will vary between the Peach and Polaris Gray, offering users different sound characteristics depending on their preference.
In summary, the Peach and Polaris Gray share similarities in their top housing material, polycarbonate, which creates a sharp and crisp sound profile and allows for RGB lighting. However, their bottom housing materials, nylon for the Peach and polycarbonate for the Polaris Gray, result in different sound qualities. The Peach's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, while the Polaris Gray's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper and crisper sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound characteristics and the desire for customizable lighting effects.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Peach linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The KTT Peach has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light switch. On the other hand, information about the actuation force for the Polaris Gray switch is unavailable, but its bottom out force is 67 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy.
The actuation force plays a crucial role in determining the force required to trigger a keystroke. While we have no specific information about the actuation force of the Polaris Gray switch, it is apparent that the Peach requires a lighter force to actuate. This lighter actuation force of the Peach switch may be preferred by individuals who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions, as it allows for greater comfort and reduced fatigue.
The bottom out force, on the other hand, measures the force required to press the switch all the way down. In this aspect, the Peach switch is again lighter, requiring 53 grams to bottom out, while the Polaris Gray is heavier, requiring 67 grams. This disparity in bottom out force caters to different preferences among typists. Some individuals may prefer a more substantial typing experience, characterized by a stronger push feel, which can be achieved with switches having heavier forces like the Polaris Gray.
Overall, while the KTT Peach switch offers a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the SP-Star Polaris Gray switch, it's important to note that individual preferences play a vital role in selecting the right switch. Those seeking a more prolonged typing experience or extended gaming sessions may find the lighter forces of the Peach switch advantageous. Conversely, individuals desiring a heavier and more substantial typing feel might opt for the Polaris Gray switch.
Travel distance
Both the KTT Peach linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key, both switches will travel a distance of 4 mm from the top to the bottom. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of the distance you feel when using either of these switches. The travel distance for both switches is equal, providing a consistent typing experience for users.
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 KTT Peach comes in at $2.91 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, both the KTT Peach and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches have low-pitched characteristics, which means they produce a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Additionally, they are both described as having a neutral sound profile, meaning they have a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile suitable for various purposes. However, the Peach switches are also mentioned to have a deep "thocky" sound profile, which produces a satisfying deep "thud" or soft "knock" when pressed and released. It's important to note that the sound of both switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, both the Peach and Polaris Gray switches are described as offering a mild typing experience. This means they provide a more gentle and approachable typing feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. They both fall within a safe middle-ground zone, making them suitable for most users. However, the Polaris Gray switches are additionally described as polished, which indicates a smooth and refined finish. This results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel, potentially providing an even smoother feel compared to the Peach switches.
Based on the available information, the Peach switches excel in terms of sound with their deep, thocky profile, providing a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switches offer a mild and polished feel, potentially enhancing the smoothness and comfort during typing. Both switches have low-pitched characteristics and a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for a wide range of users and purposes. Ultimately, which switch is preferable would depend on individual preference regarding sound and feel. However, it's worth noting that if a user desires a similar low-pitched sound profile, both switches would likely yield similar results, with the Peach switch potentially offering a deeper thocky sound and the Polaris Gray switch potentially providing a smoother and polished feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a medium-light switch with a syrupy smooth typing experience and a deep, thocky sound profile, the KTT Peach linear switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a bouncy typing experience and a clean and clacky sound profile, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch would be more suitable. In terms of sound, both switches offer a low-pitched and mellow tone, making them great options for those who enjoy a bass-heavy sound. They also have a neutral sound profile, which makes them versatile for any purpose. In terms of feel, both switches provide a mild typing experience that should be approachable to most users. However, if you prefer a more polished and smooth typing experience, the Polaris Gray switch may be preferable due to its polished finish and reduced friction. Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Peach and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches depends on your preference for bottom out force, typing experience, and sound profile.
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