SP-Star Polaris Gray vs. Gateron Quinn
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Gateron Quinn switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introduction:
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that offer distinct typing experiences are the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Gateron Quinn. The Polaris Gray switches are ideal for those who crave a bouncy typing experience, with a clean and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Quinn switches boast a unique combination of crisp, light switch-like tactility and a deep, resonant sound, thanks to their specially designed nylon housings. With each keystroke, users are treated to a rich and immersive sound that adds character to their typing experience, along with a precise and crisp tactile bump. Both switches have their own set of qualities that will appeal to different preferences, making it essential to examine them in further detail before determining the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
59g
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
3.40 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Housing materials
The SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Gateron Quinn differ in terms of their housing materials. The Polaris Gray features a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, while the Quinn utilizes a nylon top and bottom housing.
In terms of sound profile, the Polaris Gray's polycarbonate housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which allows for a more clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the Quinn's nylon housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, if you prefer a sharper and more vibrant sound, the Polaris Gray with its polycarbonate housing may be the better choice. However, if you prefer a deeper and fuller sound, the Gateron Quinn with its nylon housing may be a more suitable option.
In terms of aesthetics, both the Polaris Gray and the Quinn offer different visual experiences. The Polaris Gray's polycarbonate housing is translucent, making it especially useful for those who plan to use RGB lighting. Its clear housing allows for the RGB lighting to shine through, creating a visually appealing effect. On the other hand, the Quinn's nylon housing does not offer translucency, resulting in a more solid and opaque appearance. If you prioritize RGB lighting and the visual aspect of your keyboard, the Polaris Gray may be the better choice. However, if you prefer a more traditional and solid look, the Gateron Quinn may be more appealing to you.
While there are differences between the housing materials of the Polaris Gray and the Quinn, there are also similarities in terms of the sound profile. Both the polycarbonate and nylon housing materials contribute to creating a rounder sound profile. However, the polycarbonate in the Polaris Gray brings a sharper and crisper element to the sound, while the nylon in the Gateron Quinn creates a deeper and fuller tone. If you are looking for a switch with a rich and rounded sound, either the Polaris Gray or the Quinn could provide similar results, albeit with slightly different characteristics depending on your preference.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch to the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, several differences and similarities can be observed in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Polaris Gray switch has an unavailable actuation force, while the Quinn switch requires 59 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. Both switches, however, share the same bottom out force of 67 grams, which falls under the medium-heavy category.
Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing between these switches. For those who prefer a lighter key press, the Quinn switch would be more suitable as it requires 59 grams of force for actuation. This lighter actuation force can be beneficial for individuals who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions.
On the other hand, some users may prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. In such cases, the unavailable actuation force of the Polaris Gray switch may offer a satisfying key press. This heavier actuation force can provide a sense of stability and precision to users who enjoy a slightly more resistant keyboard.
In terms of bottom out force, both switches share the same weight of 67 grams. This means that regardless of the actuation force, users will experience a similar level of resistance when fully pressing down the keys. Therefore, if the bottom out force is the primary concern, both the Polaris Gray and Quinn switches would result in similar typing experiences.
Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience. Whether one prefers a lighter or heavier actuation force, or values consistency in bottoming out, both the Polaris Gray and Quinn switches offer options that cater to different user preferences.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Polaris Gray has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional distance, while the Quinn has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. For gamers or those looking for faster response times, the Quinn's shorter travel distance may be preferable. On the other hand, some individuals may find the shorter distance to feel too abrupt and prefer a more substantial depth when pressing down on a key. In such cases, the Polaris Gray with its longer travel distance would be a better choice. Overall, it is important to consider personal preferences and requirements when deciding between these switches.
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 Gateron Quinn has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Quinn for $5.50.
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
Based on the provided information, the Polaris Gray and Quinn switches have distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel.
In terms of sound, the Polaris Gray switches are described as having a low-pitched and thocky sound profile. This means that when the keys are pressed and released, users can expect a deep, rich, and satisfying sound similar to a deep "thud" or a soft "knock." On the other hand, the Quinn switches are characterized by a bassy, clacky, low-pitched, and resonant sound profile. This means that users will experience a sharp, snappy, bass-heavy, and immersive sound with each keystroke. Both switches offer unique sound profiles, but the Polaris Gray leans towards a deeper and richer tone, while the Quinn provides a more crisp and bright auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the Polaris Gray switches are described as mild and polished. This means that they offer a gentle typing experience with a smooth and refined finish. Users can expect a safe and approachable feel, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Quinn switches, on the other hand, are characterized as snappy, polished, bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy. This indicates that users will experience a super responsive typing experience with longer or dual-staged springs, smooth and sleek key travel, lively rebound, and a smooth and effortless keystroke sensation.
In conclusion, the Polaris Gray and Quinn switches have different sound and feel qualities. The Polaris Gray switches provide a clean and clacky sound profile with a bouncy and polished feel, while the Quinn switches offer a crisp and resonant sound profile with a snappy, polished, bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy feel. If you are seeking a deeper and richer sound with a mild and polished feel, the Polaris Gray switches would be a good choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a crisper and immersive sound with a snappy, bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy feel, the Quinn switches would be more suitable. Keep in mind that the sound and feel of the switches may also depend on other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Conclusion
In closing, if you prefer a bouncy typing experience with a clean and clacky sound profile, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch would be a great choice for you. These switches have a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a satisfying resistance. The sound profile of the Polaris Gray is described as low-pitched, neutral, and thocky, offering a deep and mellow tone with a satisfying thud. In terms of feel, the Polaris Gray is characterized as mild and polished, giving you a gentle and smooth typing experience.
On the other hand, if you value a unique combination of crisp and light switch-like tactility along with a deep and resonant sound profile, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch is the way to go. With each keystroke, you'll experience a precise and clean tactile bump accompanied by a rich and immersive sound. The Quinn switch also has a bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a medium-heavy resistance.
Ultimately, the choice between the Polaris Gray and Quinn switches depends on your personal preferences for typing experience. If you prefer bounciness, a clean and clacky sound, and a mild and polished feel, go with the Polaris Gray. If you prefer crisp tactility, a deep and resonant sound, and snappy or bouncy feel, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch is the better option. Consider your desired typing experience and sound profile to make the decision that suits you best.
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