SP-Star Polaris Gray vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that are worth considering are the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring. The Polaris Gray is a linear switch, known for providing a bouncy typing experience with a clean and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is a tactile switch, recommended for those who prefer a medium level of tactility. With a lower actuation and bottom-out force, this variant of Aflion's Shadow switch offers approachable tactility and a deep, thocky sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
No
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
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The SP-Star Polaris Gray and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring both utilize polycarbonate for their top and bottom housings. This material choice results in a similar sound profile for both switches, characterized by sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp sound quality. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for compatibility with RGB lighting, making it an advantageous feature for those looking to enhance their keyboard's aesthetics. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and visual appeal when using either switch.
However, it is important to note that if a switch's top and bottom housings differ, the qualities of the respective housing materials will be divided. In this case, the bottom housing material plays a crucial role in determining the sound and feel when the key is pressed down. On the other hand, the top housing material primarily influences the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, while both the Polaris Gray and Shadow (Ink) Single Spring incorporate polycarbonate for their bottom housings, the distinction lies in their respective top housings.
In summary, the Polaris Gray and Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches share the advantage of polycarbonate housings, resulting in a similar sound profile and compatibility with RGB lighting. However, when comparing the two switches, the main difference lies in the impact of their respective top and bottom housing materials on the sound profile and feel. Users can expect variations in the bottom-out sound and feel from the bottom housing, while the top housing will largely determine the sound when releasing a key.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch, there is a notable difference in the weight. The Polaris Gray has an actuation force of unavailable grams, while the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has an actuation force of 48 grams. This indicates that the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring requires less force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Polaris Gray, making it the lighter option.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Polaris Gray has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which falls into the medium-heavy category. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has a bottom out force of 55 grams, classifying it as medium-light. This suggests that the Polaris Gray requires more force to fully press the key down compared to the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, making it the heavier option in terms of bottoming out.
Considering the weight aspect, those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer durations may opt for the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring. This switch allows them to type for extended periods without experiencing too much strain. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial and tactile typing experience may find the heavier actuation and bottom out force of the Polaris Gray to their liking.
In summary, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch has an unavailable actuation force and a bottom out force of 67 grams, positioning it as the heavier choice in both categories. In contrast, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch has an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it lighter in both aspects. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch is 4 mm, the same as the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch. This means that both switches provide a similar experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom when pressing down on a key. Therefore, whether you choose the Polaris Gray or the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring, you can expect to get the same results in terms of 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 Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring for $3.57.
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
In terms of sound, the Polaris Gray switches are known for their clean and clacky profile. These switches produce a low-pitched sound, which gives them a bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Additionally, they are described as having a thocky sound profile, meaning they produce a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches is unknown, as there is no specific information provided. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Polaris Gray switches offer a mild and polished typing experience. They provide a gentle and approachable feel, making them suitable for most individuals. The mild nature of these switches places them in a safe middle-ground zone, where the sound and feel are balanced. Additionally, the polished finish of the switches results in reduced friction and smooth key travel. However, the feel of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches is described as bouncy. This indicates that they offer a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, where the keys have a lively feel and provide rebound when pressed.
Considering the available information, the Polaris Gray and Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Polaris Gray switches have a clean and clacky sound profile, with a low-pitched and thocky characteristic. In terms of feel, they provide a mild and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches have an unknown sound profile, and they are described as bouncy in feel. Depending on your preferences, you can choose between the bouncy and lively feel of the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring switches or the mild and polished typing experience of the Polaris Gray switches. Nonetheless, it is important to consider that other factors, like the keyboard board and keycaps used, may also influence the overall sound and feel of the switches.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the decision between the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Single Spring tactile switch depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a bouncy typing experience and prefer a clean and clacky sound profile, the Polaris Gray may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium level of tactility and a deep, thocky sound profile, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring is highly recommended. Additionally, if you prefer a switch with a lower actuation and bottom-out force, the Shadow (Ink) Single Spring provides a more approachable tactility. Overall, it is important to consider the sound and feel descriptions of each switch and choose the one that aligns with your typing preferences.
Mentioned in this article
