SP-Star Polaris Gray vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two options that stand out are the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower). The Polaris Gray is a linear switch, while the POM T1 is a tactile switch. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you prefer a bouncy typing experience and a clean, clacky sound profile, the Polaris Gray is a great choice. On the other hand, if you seek maximum tactility with a sharp tactility and a satisfying clean clack, the POM T1 is the switch for you. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision based on your personal preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Proprietary
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) differ in their choice of housing materials. The Polaris Gray features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This material is especially beneficial for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as the translucency of polycarbonate allows for beautiful light diffusion. In contrast, the POM T1 (Sunflower) boasts a POM top housing that produces a unique sound profile on the deeper side, with a relatively more muted tone. While both options offer distinct auditory experiences, the Polaris Gray's polycarbonate top housing provides a brighter and clearer sound, while the POM T1 (Sunflower) has a deeper and more understated sound.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) continue to differentiate themselves. The Polaris Gray makes use of polycarbonate in its bottom housing, resulting in a similar sound profile to its top counterpart. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound, adding to the overall experience when pressing down on the switch. On the contrary, the POM T1 (Sunflower) utilizes a POM bottom housing, which creates a different and pleasing sound. The sound profile produced by the POM bottom housing is deeper and more muted compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Polaris Gray.
It's important to note that the top and bottom housing materials have varying impacts on the sound and feel of a switch. The bottom housing, whether it is polycarbonate or POM, significantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down. In contrast, the top housing material plays a larger role in the sound produced when a key is released. Therefore, if you prefer a switch with a brighter and crisper sound when releasing a key, the Polaris Gray's polycarbonate top housing would be a suitable choice. However, if you lean towards a deeper and more understated sound, the POM T1 (Sunflower) with its POM top housing would be a better fit. Despite their differences, both switches offer distinct qualities and an enjoyable keyboarding experience.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, there are some similarities and differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. Both switches have an actuation force that is unavailable, meaning the specific measurement is unknown. However, they share the same bottom out force of 67 grams, which falls into the category of medium-heavy.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the weight of a switch is an important factor to consider. A lighter switch allows for longer periods of typing without strain, which is particularly advantageous for those using the keyboard for work or extended gaming sessions. In this regard, it is unclear whether the Polaris Gray or the POM T1 is lighter.
On the other hand, some individuals prefer a stronger push feel, as it provides a more substantial typing experience. For these users, a switch with a heavier force is ideal. Both the Polaris Gray and the POM T1 have a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. Therefore, if one desires a heavier switch, either option would provide similar results.
In summary, while the actuation force of the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Durock POM T1 switches is unknown, they both have a bottom out force of 67 grams. The weight of the switches remain uncertain, but for those seeking a lighter typing experience, it may be helpful to test both options. However, if a heavier force is preferred, either switch would offer a similar sensation.
Travel distance
Both the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that, when pressing down on a key, you will experience a consistent 4mm of travel distance for both switches. Consequently, you can expect similar results when typing or gaming with either switch. The travel distance for both switches is equal, ensuring a satisfying and 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 Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the POM T1 (Sunflower) for $5.57.
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 SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch is best known for providing a bouncy typing experience. When it comes to sound, these switches have a low-pitched profile, resulting in a bass-heavy and mellow tone. Additionally, they can produce a deep and satisfying "thocky" sound when pressed and released. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch offers maximum tactility. Its sound profile is described as resonant, with a clean and sharp higher-pitched sound. Both switches have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various purposes.
In terms of feel, the Polaris Gray switch offers a mild and polished experience. Its mild nature provides a gentle typing experience, while the polished finish ensures smooth and refined key travel. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch has several distinct qualities. It is known for its sharp tactile bump, which delivers strong and crisp feedback with each keypress. The switch is also described as accented, meaning it provides a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming. Additionally, the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch is snappy, thanks to its super responsive dual-stage springs, resulting in a more lively typing experience. Overall, it offers an invigorating typing sensation with pronounced feedback and moderate to firm actuation force.
Based on the information provided, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Polaris Gray switch provides a clean and clacky sound profile with a low-pitched and thocky tone, while the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch offers a resonant sound profile with a higher-pitched and clean sound. In terms of feel, the Polaris Gray switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, while the POM T1 (Sunflower) switch delivers a sharp, accented, and snappy feel with an invigorating typing sensation. It is important to note that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a bouncy typing experience with a clean and clacky sound profile, the Polaris Gray linear switch is a great choice for you. With a bottom out force of 67 grams, it offers a medium-heavy feel that is approachable to most users. The sound profile of the Polaris Gray is low-pitched, neutral, and thocky, providing a deep and satisfying sound when pressed.
On the other hand, if you are looking for maximum tactility and a sharp, clean clack sound, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch is the way to go. With the same bottom out force of 67 grams, this switch offers a sharp and crisp tactile bump that is prominent and distinct with each keypress. It is described as resonant and neutral in terms of sound, providing a higher-pitched and immersive auditory experience.
Overall, your decision between the Polaris Gray linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch depends on your preference for typing experience and sound profile. If you enjoy a bouncy feel with a thocky sound, go for the Polaris Gray. If you prioritize maximum tactility with a crisp sound, the POM T1 is the switch for you. Choose the one that suits your typing style and preferences the best.
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