SP-Star Polaris Gray vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the SP-Star RedBlue 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 offering a unique typing experience. Two switches that stand out in this realm are the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the SP-Star RedBlue. The Polaris Gray is perfect for those who enjoy a bouncy typing experience, accompanied by a clean and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the RedBlue linear switches are known for offering a medium-light typing experience, with a relatively higher-pitched sound profile. Both switches share common characteristics, such as being low-pitched, neutral, mild, thocky, and polished. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the most suitable switch for your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
57g
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
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
Gold plated
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The SP-Star Polaris Gray and SP-Star RedBlue keyboards both feature polycarbonate housing materials. The use of polycarbonate in both the top and bottom housings creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both keyboards. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, since both keyboards have clear housings, it is safe to assume that they both utilize polycarbonate in their construction. This translucency is especially advantageous for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows for a more vibrant and visually appealing experience.
While both the Polaris Gray and RedBlue keyboards share similar qualities in terms of their polycarbonate housing materials, it is important to note that if the top and bottom housings differ, the impact on the sound and feel of the switch will vary. When pressing down on a key, the qualities of the bottom housing will be more prominent, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, when letting go of a key, the top housing will have a greater impact on the resulting sound. This distinction highlights the significance of having a uniform housing material throughout the switch, as it ensures consistent performance and sound quality.
Overall, the housing materials used in both the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the SP-Star RedBlue keyboards contribute to their overall sound profile and aesthetic appeal. The utilization of polycarbonate in both the top and bottom housings leads to a sharper and crisper sound, while its translucency enhances the visual experience, particularly when RGB lighting is incorporated. Although there may be variations in the distribution of the housing materials within the switches, both keyboards deliver similar results in terms of sound and feel, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for users.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. Starting with the actuation force, both switches have an unknown value, making it difficult to make a direct comparison. However, if they happen to be the same, users can expect similar results in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Polaris Gray switch has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which falls into the medium-heavy category. This means that users can expect a more substantial typing experience, ideal for those who prefer a stronger push feel while typing. On the other hand, the RedBlue switch has a bottom out force of 57 grams, which is classified as medium-light. This implies that typing on the RedBlue switch will require slightly less force and may be preferred by individuals who enjoy a lighter typing experience.
Both switches have their advantages depending on user preferences and typing habits. Those who value lightweight switches for extended typing periods may find the RedBlue switch more suitable, particularly if they bring their keyboard to work or engage in long gaming sessions. However, individuals seeking a more pronounced tactile feedback and a heavier keystroke may opt for the Polaris Gray switch. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will come down to the personal preference of the user and their desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a keyboard switch refers to the distance the switch travels when pressed, which varies depending on the type of switch. In the case of the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel, ensuring a consistent typing experience. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the SP-Star RedBlue switches provide similar results.
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 SP-Star RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
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 sound profile of the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch is best described as low-pitched, neutral, and thocky. Low-pitched switches typically produce a bass-heavy and mellow tone, while the neutral profile means it has a moderate sound that is suitable for various purposes. The thocky characteristic adds a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when the key is pressed and released. Similarly, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch also has a low-pitched, neutral, and thocky sound profile. This means that both switches will provide a similar sound experience, with a bass-heavy and mellow tone, a moderate sound profile, and a deep, satisfying sound when pressed.
In terms of feel, both the Polaris Gray and the RedBlue switches offer a mild typing experience. This means that the typing sensation is more gentle and approachable compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Additionally, both switches are described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience. This smoothness is achieved through either the materials used or factory lubing, which reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel. Therefore, the feel of the Polaris Gray and the RedBlue switches will be quite similar, providing a comfortable and polished typing experience.
Considering all the available information, both the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the SP-Star RedBlue switches share similar subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. They both have a low-pitched and thocky sound profile, providing a bass-heavy, mellow tone with a deep, satisfying sound. Similarly, they both offer a mild typing experience with a polished finish, resulting in a gentle and sleek feeling when typing. Overall, if you prefer either the Polaris Gray or the RedBlue switch, you can expect a similar sound and feel, ensuring a pleasant typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a bouncy typing experience and enjoy a clean and clacky sound profile, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch may be the best choice for you. With a bottom out force of 67 grams, these switches offer a medium-heavy feel. In terms of sound, the Polaris Gray switch produces a low-pitched and thocky sound, which can be deep and satisfying when pressed. Additionally, the Polaris Gray switch is described as mild and polished, offering a gentle typing experience and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light typing experience and enjoy a relatively higher-pitched sound profile, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch might be more suitable for you. With a bottom out force of 57 grams, these switches provide a medium-light feel. The RedBlue switch also produces a low-pitched sound and is described as neutral and thocky, offering a mellow tone and a satisfying press and release.
Ultimately, the decision between the SP-Star Polaris Gray and RedBlue switches comes down to personal preference in terms of typing experience, sound profile, and feel. Both switches offer their unique characteristics, allowing you to choose the one that aligns best with your preferences. Whether you prioritize a bouncy or medium-light typing experience, a clean or higher-pitched sound profile, or a mild and polished feel, there is a switch that will suit your needs. In the end, it's about finding the switch that enhances your overall typing experience and brings you the most satisfaction.
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