SP-Star Polaris Gray vs. Outemu Red Panda

Overview

When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Outemu Red Panda. The Polaris Gray, a linear switch, offers a bouncy typing experience with a clean and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Red Panda, a tactile switch, provides a light-medium amount of tactility along with a bassier bottom-out sound and a clackier top-out sound. While both switches have their own unique qualities, it ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.

By the numbers

SP-Star Polaris Gray Linear

Outemu Red Panda Tactile

$5.60

$5.00 per 10

$3.40 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Outemu Red Panda switches share many similarities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which produces a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiff plastic that enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetic qualities when using either switch's top housing.

However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Outemu Red Panda employ different materials, resulting in distinct sound profiles. The Polaris Gray's bottom housing also utilizes polycarbonate, further enhancing the switch's sharp and crisp sound. On the other hand, the Red Panda's bottom housing is made of nylon, which produces a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. Therefore, users will experience a noticeable difference in the typing sound depending on whether they choose the Polaris Gray or the Red Panda.

It is important to note that the qualities brought by the top and bottom housings of a switch will influence different aspects of the typing experience. When pressing down on a switch, the bottom housing will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing will primarily affect the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while both the Polaris Gray and the Red Panda offer unique sound profiles, users should consider their preferences for both pressing and releasing keys before making a decision.

Weight

When comparing the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Polaris Gray's actuation force is listed as unavailable, while the Red Panda has an actuation force of 50 grams. This indicates that the Red Panda requires a slightly lighter touch to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Polaris Gray is heavier with 67 grams compared to the Red Panda's 60 grams. This means that the Polaris Gray provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Red Panda offers a slightly lighter overall feel.

Considering the weight, some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Red Panda, as it allows for longer typing periods and is suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for the heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Polaris Gray. It is important to note that although the specific actuation force of the Polaris Gray is unavailable, it is likely to provide a similar typing experience in terms of force required as the Red Panda due to their both being categorized as medium. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch is 4.0 mm, while the travel distance of the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch is 3.3 mm. In terms of distance, the Polaris Gray has a slightly longer travel distance than the Red Panda. A 4.0 mm travel distance is considered more traditional and provides a deeper key press sensation, which some users prefer for a more satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the 3.3 mm travel distance of the Red Panda is shallower and offers a quicker key response time. This shorter travel distance is often favored by gamers who value faster reaction speeds. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Polaris Gray linear switch is known for its clean and clacky sound profile. It tends to have a low-pitched tone, which gives it a more bass-heavy and mellow sound compared to higher-pitched switches. This contributes to a satisfying thocky sound when the key is pressed and released. On the other hand, the Red Panda tactile switch offers a unique sound experience. It has a raindrop-like bottom-out sound, which is described as bassier, and a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound. Like the Polaris Gray, it also produces a thocky sound when pressed. However, without specific information on the pitch and characteristics of the Red Panda, it is difficult to make a direct comparison in terms of sound.

Moving on to feel, both the Polaris Gray and the Red Panda switches provide a mild typing experience. This means that they offer a more gentle and approachable feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The Polaris Gray switch takes it a step further with its polished design, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. This smoothness is achieved through either high-quality materials or factory lubing, reducing friction and allowing for smooth key travel. Unfortunately, there is no specific information available about the feel of the Red Panda switch, so a direct comparison is not possible.

Based on the available information, we can see that both switches offer a thocky sound when pressed, making them attractive choices for those seeking a deep and rich typing experience. In terms of feel, they both provide a mild and approachable typing experience, with the added bonus of the Polaris Gray switch featuring a polished design for even smoother key travel. However, without more detailed information on the Red Panda switch's sound and feel, it is difficult to make a comprehensive comparison. It would be advised to consider other factors such as personal preference, the choice of board, and keycaps when making a decision.

Conclusion

In closing, if you prefer a bouncy typing experience and a clean, clacky sound profile, the Polaris Gray switches would be a great choice for you. They have a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a satisfying amount of resistance. These switches produce a low-pitched, neutral sound with a thocky quality, making your typing experience deep and mellow. Additionally, they offer a mild and polished feel, ensuring a gentle and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a light-medium amount of tactility and a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound with a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound, the Red Panda switches would be a suitable option. With a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, these switches provide a comfortable typing experience. They also produce a thocky sound, which adds to the satisfaction of typing. Both switches offer a mild feel, making them approachable to most users. Ultimately, the choice between the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Outemu Red Panda depends on your personal preference for typing experience and sound profile.

Mentioned in this article

SP-Star Polaris Gray Linear

$5.60

$5.00 per 10

Learn more

Outemu Red Panda Tactile

$3.40 per 10

Learn more