SP-Star Polaris Gray vs. KTT Semi Mute
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the KTT Semi Mute switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that offer distinct typing experiences are the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the KTT Semi Mute. The Polaris Gray switch is ideal for those who enjoy a bouncy typing experience and appreciate a clean and clacky sound profile while typing. On the other hand, the Semi Mute switch, despite its name, operates completely silently, making it perfect for individuals who value a noise-free environment, particularly during late-night typing sessions. With its linear actuation and advanced dampening technology, the Semi Mute switch provides a comfortable and gratifying typing feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities, exploring the specific characteristics of each switch so that you can make an informed decision that best suits your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
15mm spring
Housing materials
The housing material used in the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the KTT Semi Mute switches is the same - polycarbonate. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in switches. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, its translucency makes it especially useful if you plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows for the illumination to shine through the housing.
Therefore, both the Polaris Gray and the Semi Mute switches will provide similar results in terms of sound quality and aesthetics. Both switches will have a sharp and crisp sound profile, giving users a satisfying auditory experience. Moreover, both switches will be capable of showcasing RGB lighting effects due to their translucency.
However, it is important to note that if the top and bottom housings of a switch are different, the qualities brought by each housing material will be divided. The bottom housing will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed, while the top housing will influence the sound when the key is released. This distinction might produce a subtle variation in the overall experience between the Polaris Gray and the Semi Mute switches, depending on their specific design.
In conclusion, both the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the KTT Semi Mute switches offer advantages in terms of sound profile and visual appeal due to their polycarbonate top and bottom housings. While they share similar qualities and benefits, the distinction in the distribution of these housing materials between the top and bottom of the switch may result in slight differences in the overall typing experience.
Weight
The SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch have distinct differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Polaris Gray's actuation force is currently unavailable, while the Semi Mute has an actuation force of 43 grams. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is considered medium-heavy, while the Semi Mute has a bottom out force of 58 grams, which is medium.
The weight of a switch is a crucial factor to consider, as it can impact typing endurance and the overall typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter switch may opt for the Semi Mute, as its actuation force is lighter. This lighter actuation force allows for smoother and quicker keystrokes, making it ideal for extended periods of typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the heavier bottom out force of the Polaris Gray provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. This can be beneficial for users seeking a more tactile and satisfying typing sensation.
Although the actuation force of the Polaris Gray is currently unknown, it is safe to assume that it falls within a similar range as the Semi Mute or may even be lighter. Therefore, users who desire a lighter actuation force can achieve similar results with the Polaris Gray, making it a suitable alternative to the Semi Mute. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on individual preferences, with the Polaris Gray offering a potentially lighter actuation force and a heavier bottom out force, while the Semi Mute presents a lighter overall typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the KTT Semi Mute linear switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance ensures that your typing experience will be consistent and familiar whether you choose the Polaris Gray or the Semi Mute.
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 KTT Semi Mute has an MSRP of $3.97 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi Mute for $3.55.
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 has a low-pitched, neutral sound profile. This means that it produces a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches, making it suitable for most intents and purposes. Additionally, the Polaris Gray has a thocky sound, which results in a deep, rich, and satisfying "thud" or "knock" when the key is pressed and released. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch is described as having a muted, neutral sound. It produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards.
In terms of feel, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch offers a mild and polished typing experience. Being a mild switch, it provides a gentle typing sensation that most users will find approachable. The switch's qualities stand in a safe middle-ground zone, making it suitable for a wide range of typists. Additionally, the Polaris Gray has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. This creates a sleek typing experience that is both refined and comfortable. On the other hand, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch is described as buttery and mild. The buttery feel implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Similar to the Polaris Gray, the Semi Mute switch also falls into the mild category, offering a gentle typing experience that many users will appreciate.
In conclusion, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the KTT Semi Mute linear switch have distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Polaris Gray is known for its bouncy typing experience with a clean and clacky sound profile. It offers a mild and polished feel, providing a smooth and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Semi Mute switch is tailor-made for those who value a noise-free environment. It operates silently and has a muted sound profile. It offers a buttery and mild feel, ensuring a smooth and effortless typing experience. While the two switches offer different qualities, those seeking a similar typing experience to the Polaris Gray can expect comparable results with the Semi Mute switch, as both fall into the neutral and mild categories.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a bouncy typing experience and appreciate a clean and clacky sound profile, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. With a bottom out force of 67 grams, these switches offer a medium-heavy feel. Furthermore, the Polaris Gray switches produce a low-pitched and thocky sound when pressed, providing a rich and satisfying auditory experience. In terms of feel, these switches offer a mild and polished typing experience, featuring reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a noise-free environment and desire undisturbed typing, especially during late-night sessions, the KTT Semi Mute linear switch is the perfect option for you. With a bottom out force of 58 grams, these switches offer a medium feel. Despite their completely silent operation, the Semi Mute switches provide a gratifying typing feel with their linear actuation and advanced dampening technology. In terms of sound, the Semi Mute switches produce a muted and neutral sound, minimizing the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards. The feel of these switches is described as buttery and mild, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the KTT Semi Mute switches depends on your personal preferences and requirements. Whether you prioritize a bouncy typing experience with a clean and clacky sound or a noise-free environment with a muted and silent operation, both options provide comfortable and enjoyable typing experiences. Consider your preferences regarding sound, feel, and typing environment to make an informed decision.
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