Outemu Phoenix vs. SP-Star Polaris Gray
An in-depth look at the Outemu Phoenix and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a plethora of options to choose from, each with its own unique attributes. Two switches that stand out among the crowd are the Outemu Phoenix, a clicky switch, and the SP-Star Polaris Gray, a linear switch. The Phoenix is best known for its under-skirt click mechanism, making it the most unique clicky switch available today. With a crystalline and sparkling type feel and sound profile, it offers a satisfying tactile experience. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray is favored by those who prefer a bouncy typing experience. Its sound profile is clean and clacky, creating a pleasant auditory feedback. The Polaris Gray falls under various categories, including low-pitched, neutral, mild, thocky, and polished. 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
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.80 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Phoenix and the SP-Star Polaris Gray, both made of polycarbonate, share several similarities. Both housings create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches incorporating RGB lighting. Therefore, both the Phoenix and the Polaris Gray will produce similar sound profiles and aesthetic effects when it comes to the top and bottom housing materials.
However, it is important to note that if the top and bottom housings differ for a given switch, the qualities of each housing material will be divided between the two components. When pressing down on a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing, which impact the bottom-out sound and feel, will be more prominent. On the other hand, the sound produced when releasing a key will be influenced more by the top housing. While both the Phoenix and Polaris Gray utilize polycarbonate for their top and bottom housings, any differences in their design or construction may result in subtle variations in the overall sound and tactile experience.
In terms of functionality, the Phoenix and Polaris Gray can be expected to deliver similar results due to the shared use of polycarbonate for their housing materials. Both switches will provide a crisp and sharp sound profile, with enhanced clarity and resonance. The presence of polycarbonate in the top housing ensures optimal light transmission for RGB lighting effects, making them visually appealing options for enthusiasts who want to incorporate lighting into their keyboards. Whether it is the Phoenix or the Polaris Gray, users can expect a satisfying typing experience that combines auditory and visual elements seamlessly.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, we find that the actuation force for both switches is unavailable, meaning we do not have the specific gram measurement. However, it can be inferred that the actuation forces of both switches are similar since this information is not provided differently for either switch. Moving to the bottom out force, we observe that the Phoenix has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which can be considered medium. In contrast, the Polaris Gray has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, falling into the medium-heavy category.
Considering the weight aspect, individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Phoenix to be more suitable. With a medium bottom out force, it allows for longer typing sessions and is ideal for those who use the keyboard extensively, whether it be for work or gaming. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel and desire a stronger push may lean towards choosing a switch with a heavier force. In this case, the Polaris Gray would be a suitable option. Its medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams provides a more pronounced tactile feedback, resulting in a more robust typing experience. Overall, while the specific actuation forces are unknown, it can be assumed that both switches offer similar actuation forces. However, the Phoenix is lighter in terms of bottom out force, while the Polaris Gray is slightly heavier.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch is 3.3 mm, while the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Phoenix offers a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Polaris Gray. A travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered more traditional, providing a balance between responsiveness and depth. On the other hand, the Phoenix's 3.3 mm travel distance appeals to gamers who prioritize faster response times. The shorter travel distance allows for quicker keystrokes, ideal for rapid inputs in gaming scenarios. However, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance to feel too abrupt. In contrast, the Polaris Gray's longer travel distance may be preferred by those who desire a more substantial keystroke experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness or depth.
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 Phoenix comes in at $4.15 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
The subjective sound profile of the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch is described as crunchy, resembling the sound of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. This unique clicky switch provides a crystalline and sparkling type feel and sound.
On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch offers a clean and clacky sound profile. With a low-pitched characteristic, these switches produce a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Additionally, they are described as thocky, resulting in a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed.
In terms of feel, the Phoenix switch is noted for its polished finish, providing a smooth and refined touch. This polished design reduces friction and offers a sleek typing experience.
Similarly, the Polaris Gray switch also features a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. In addition to this, its mild characteristic provides a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users.
Based on the available information, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch offer different sound profiles and textures. The Phoenix switch delivers a unique crunchy sound and a polished feel, while the Polaris Gray switch offers a low-pitched, clacky sound and a mild, polished feel. However, it is important to note that the choice of keyboard board and keycaps can influence the sound produced by the switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you value a unique and sparkling typing experience with a medium bottom out force, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch would be the ideal choice for you. Its under-skirt click mechanism sets it apart from other clicky switches, providing a crisp and crunchy sound reminiscent of stepping on autumn leaves. Additionally, the Phoenix offers a polished feel, ensuring smooth key travel and reduced friction during typing.
On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy typing experience with a slightly heavier bottom out force, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch would be a great option. These switches offer a clean and clacky sound profile, characterized by a low-pitched and mellow tone. With a moderate actuation force requirement, the Polaris Gray switch is suitable for both beginners and advanced users, whether for home or work settings. Similar to the Phoenix, the Polaris Gray switch also provides a refined and polished feel, resulting in a sleek typing experience.
Ultimately, the decision between the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch depends on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and bottom out force. Consider the unique click mechanism and sparkling sound profile of the Phoenix if you enjoy a medium bottom out force and a unique typing experience. Alternatively, opt for the bouncy and clean sound profile of the Polaris Gray switch, along with its slightly heavier bottom out force, if you prefer a different tactile experience. Both switches offer a polished feel, ensuring smooth and enjoyable typing.
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