SP-Star Polaris Gray vs. Jerrzi Seashell
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Jerrzi Seashell switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Jerrzi Seashell both offer unique features worth exploring. The Polaris Gray is a linear switch loved for its bouncy typing experience and clean, clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Seashell distinguishes itself with a stunning purple hue and a light, clacky feel that makes typing enjoyable and comfortable for extended periods. The Polaris Gray is categorized as low-pitched and neutral, while the Seashell is described as high-pitched and easy-to-press. Each switch has its own appeal, attracting different preferences among keyboard enthusiasts. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Jerrzi Seashell both feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. However, the Jerrzi Seashell differs in its bottom housing material, using nylon instead. Nylon creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
In terms of housing materials, the Polaris Gray and Seashell differ in their bottom housing composition. With the Polaris Gray featuring a polycarbonate bottom housing and the Seashell using nylon, the sound profile and feel of the switches will be unique. The stiffer polycarbonate in the Polaris Gray will have a more clear and resonant sound when bottoming out keys, while the softer nylon in the Seashell will create a deeper and fuller sound. This contrast in materials highlights the impact that housing composition can have on the overall typing experience, with the bottom housing playing a larger role in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
It is interesting to note how the choice of housing materials can significantly impact the sound and feel of mechanical keyboard switches. While both the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Jerrzi Seashell feature polycarbonate top housing for a sharper sound profile, the Seashell stands out with its nylon bottom housing for a deeper and fuller sound. The split between top and bottom housing materials allows for a unique typing experience, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has more impact on the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, the differences in housing materials contribute to the overall typing sound and feel of each switch, offering users varying experiences based on their preferences.
Weight
The SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch have distinct differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Polaris Gray has an actuation force of None grams, while the Seashell has an actuation force of 45 grams, making the Seashell the lighter option. However, the Polaris Gray has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is heavier compared to the Seashell's unknown bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter actuation force, the Seashell would be the better choice, allowing for longer typing sessions with less fatigue. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force, suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Overall, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Seashell switch is shorter than the Polaris Gray switch. The difference may not seem significant, but it can impact the typing experience depending on personal preference. Gamers may appreciate the shorter travel distance of the Seashell switch for quicker response times, while others may prefer the more substantial feel of the Polaris Gray switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to individual preference for typing or gaming style. Both switches offer reliable performance, so you can expect similar results in terms of functionality.
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 Jerrzi Seashell has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Seashell for $2.30.
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
When it comes to sound, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch offers a low-pitched and thocky sound profile, providing a bass-heavy and mellow tone that is deep and satisfying when pressed. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch produces a clacky and high-pitched sound that is sharp, crisp, and percussive. Both switches have unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the Polaris Gray being more neutral and the Seashell being more vibrant and attention-grabbing.
In terms of feel, the Polaris Gray switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, offering a gentle and refined feel that is approachable and smooth. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell switch is described as feathery and easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Both switches offer comfortable typing experiences, with the Polaris Gray being more polished and the Seashell being more effortless and light on the fingers.
Overall, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch both offer enjoyable typing experiences with their own unique sound and feel characteristics. Depending on personal preferences, users can choose between the more neutral and low-pitched sound of the Polaris Gray or the vibrant and clacky sound of the Seashell. Similarly, the choice between a mild and polished typing experience with the Polaris Gray or a feathery and easy-to-press feel with the Seashell allows users to customize their typing experience to suit their individual preferences. Ultimately, both switches provide a delightful typing experience for keyboard enthusiasts looking for a high-quality linear switch option.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, it really boils down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a bouncy typing experience with a clean and clacky sound profile, the Polaris Gray might be the perfect fit for you, especially if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force. On the other hand, if you are drawn to the stunning purple hue of the Seashell switch and appreciate a light and clacky typing experience with minimal finger fatigue, then the Seashell switch could be the ideal choice for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on what features and qualities align best with your typing needs and preferences.
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