SP-Star Polaris Gray vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear. The Polaris Gray is ideal for those who prefer a bouncy typing experience, with a clean and clacky sound profile. Categorized as low-pitched, neutral, mild, thocky, and polished, it offers a unique typing sensation. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear is known for its innovative design, providing a whisper-quiet topping-out sound while still maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound. It offers a silky smooth type feel without being over-polished. Categorized as subdued, neutral, mild, snappy, buttery, and polished, it offers a different experience compared to the Polaris Gray. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect 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
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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 housing materials of the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches share many similarities. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic that produces a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics from both switches due to their shared top housing material.
However, where these switches differ is in their bottom housing materials. The Polaris Gray utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Semi-Silent Linear features a nylon bottom housing. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Polaris Gray contributes to its overall sound profile, particularly in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Semi-Silent Linear elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, users can expect a slight distinction in the sound and feel of these switches due to their differing bottom housing materials.
In summary, while both the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches share a polycarbonate top housing, their bottom housing materials differ. This leads to variations in the sound and feel of the switches. The Polaris Gray's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to its bottom-out sound and feel, while the Semi-Silent Linear's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. However, both switches offer similar qualities in terms of their polycarbonate top housing, providing users with a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound, as well as compatibility with RGB lighting.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, it is important to note that the exact values for their actuation forces are unknown. However, the Polaris Gray has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is considered medium-heavy, while the Semi-Silent Linear has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is categorized as medium.
Considering weight as a factor, individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Polaris Gray to be more suitable for their needs. This lighter switch allows for extended typing sessions without causing excessive strain. It is ideal for those who bring their keyboards to work or engage in prolonged gaming sessions. On the other hand, those seeking a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience may prefer a switch with heavier actuation and bottom out forces. While the exact actuation forces are unknown for both switches, it can be inferred that the Polaris Gray may have a heavier actuation force due to its higher bottom out force compared to the Semi-Silent Linear.
In summary, the Polaris Gray offers a potentially heavier actuation force and a medium-heavy bottom out force, making it suitable for users who desire a more substantial typing experience. Conversely, the Semi-Silent Linear provides a medium actuation force and a slightly lighter bottom out force, which may be preferred by individuals who value longer typing sessions and a lighter feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance between the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, there is a noticeable difference. The Polaris Gray has a travel distance of 4 mm, which falls into the more traditional range. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.7 mm. This makes the Polaris Gray the longer option in terms of travel distance. However, it is important to note that both options provide ample distance for a satisfying key press.
If you prioritize faster response times, the shorter travel distance of the Semi-Silent Linear could be more appealing to you, as it allows for quicker key presses. This is often preferred by gamers who require quick reflexes and minimal delay. On the contrary, if you prefer a more substantial and deliberate feel when pressing down on a key, the longer travel distance of the Polaris Gray may be more suitable. It provides a sense of depth and may be more comfortable for those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback.
Ultimately, the choice between the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear comes down to personal preference. Both switches offer reliable travel distances, and the decision should be based on individual typing or gaming style. Rest assured, both options will deliver satisfactory results, whether you prefer a longer or shorter travel distance.
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 Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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 SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch is best known for providing a bouncy typing experience with a clean and clacky sound profile. It is described as having a low-pitched and thocky sound, producing a deep and satisfying "thud" or "knock" when pressed and released. The type feel of the Polaris Gray is mild, offering a gentle typing experience that stands in a safe, middle-ground zone. The switch is also considered polished, resulting in a smooth and refined finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch is known for its innovative design. It produces a semi-silent topping-out sound while maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound. The switch is described as having a subdued sound, offering a dampened and more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. Similar to the Polaris Gray, the Semi-Silent Linear has a neutral actuation force requirement and profile, making it suitable for various purposes. The type feel of the Semi-Silent Linear is also mild, providing a gentle typing experience. It is considered snappy, with super-responsive characteristics that make the typing experience feel more alive. Additionally, the switch is described as buttery, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience.
In conclusion, the Polaris Gray and Semi-Silent Linear switches differ in their sound profiles, with the Polaris Gray having a low-pitched and thocky sound, while the Semi-Silent Linear offers a subdued and semi-silent sound. However, both switches share similar subjective qualities in terms of feel, with a mild and approachable typing experience. They are both considered polished, providing a smooth and refined finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel. Overall, if you prefer a bouncy typing experience with a deep and satisfying sound, the Polaris Gray switch would be a suitable choice. Alternatively, if you prefer a more innovative design with a subdued and semi-silent sound, along with a snappy and buttery feel, the Semi-Silent Linear switch would be a great option.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a bouncy typing experience with a clean and clacky sound profile, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch is a great choice. With a bottom out force of 67 grams, it provides a medium-heavy feel. The sound profile of the Polaris Gray is low-pitched, neutral, and thocky, offering a deep and satisfying sound when pressed. In terms of feel, it is described as mild and polished, providing a gentle and smooth typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a semi-silent switch with a whisper-quiet topping-out sound and a clacky bottom-out sound, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch is the way to go. It has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is medium. The sound profile of the Semi-Silent Linear is subdued and neutral, offering a dampened yet subtle sound signature.
In terms of feel, the Semi-Silent Linear is described as mild, snappy, buttery, and polished. It provides a gentle typing experience with a super responsive and fluid keystroke sensation.
Ultimately, the choice between the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear depends on your preferences for typing experience and sound profile. Consider whether you prefer a bouncy typing experience with clean and clacky sounds or a semi-silent typing experience with whisper-quiet topping-out sounds. Additionally, factor in the feel you want, whether it's a mild and polished typing experience or a mild, snappy, and buttery feel. Both switches offer a moderate actuation force requirement, making them suitable for most intents and purposes.
Mentioned in this article
