SP-Star Polaris Gray vs. Dareu Sky V3
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Dareu Sky V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Dareu Sky V3 both offer unique features to consider. The Polaris Gray is favored for its bouncy typing experience and clean, clacky sound profile, making it a great choice for those seeking a tactile feel while typing. In comparison, the Sky V3 stands out for its neutral sound signature and medium-light weight, providing a comfortable and precise typing experience suitable for a wide range of users. While both switches have their own strengths, such as the Polaris Gray's low-pitch and thocky feel and the Sky V3's subdued characteristics, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
Both the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Dareu Sky V3 feature polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances resonance and clarity in sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through the housing. This shared feature between the two switches ensures that users can expect similar auditory experiences in terms of sound quality and aesthetics when using either keyboard.
However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing materials. The Polaris Gray utilizes polycarbonate for its bottom housing, maintaining the sharper sound profile throughout the switch. This results in consistent sound and feel whether pressing down on the key or releasing it. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V3 features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound that may be preferred by some users for its unique acoustic properties.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in a keyboard switch can greatly impact the sound and feel of typing. While both the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Dareu Sky V3 share the use of polycarbonate in their top housing for a similar sound experience, the difference in bottom housing materials - with the Polaris Gray using polycarbonate and the Sky V3 using nylon - provides users with options to tailor their typing experience to their preferences. Whether one prefers the sharper, crisper sound of polycarbonate or the deeper, fuller sound of nylon, both switches offer distinct acoustic characteristics that cater to different preferences.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, it is evident that they offer different experiences in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The Polaris Gray has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch, while its actuation force is not specified. On the other hand, the Sky V3 has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, but its bottom out force is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Sky V3 would be the better option due to its lower actuation force. However, for individuals who enjoy a more substantial feel while typing, the Polaris Gray would be the ideal choice with its medium-heavy bottom out force. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches would depend on personal preference for typing feel and desired weight of the switch.
Travel distance
Both the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switches have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, users will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This similarity ensures that users will get consistent results in terms of key press feel and responsiveness. Overall, the travel distance of both switches is the same, providing a familiar experience for users regardless of which switch they choose.
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 Dareu Sky V3 has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sky V3 for $4.76.
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 is best suited for those who enjoy a low-pitched and thocky sound profile, providing a bass-heavy and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch offers a more neutral and subdued sound, creating a dampened sound when pressed. Both switches cater to different sound preferences, with the Polaris Gray being more distinct and clacky, while the Sky V3 takes on a more subtle and mellow tone.
In terms of feel, both the Polaris Gray and the Sky V3 switches offer a mild typing experience, making them suitable for a wide range of users. The Polaris Gray switch is polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the Sky V3 switch offers a gentle typing experience, catering to those who prefer switches with more moderate characteristics. Both switches fall into a safe middle-ground zone, ensuring comfortable typing sessions for users of all levels.
Considering all the available information, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch offer unique sound and feel qualities tailored to different preferences. Users looking for a bouncy and distinctive typing experience may appreciate the Polaris Gray switch, while those seeking a more neutral and subdued sound profile may lean towards the Sky V3. Ultimately, deciding between these two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience each user is looking to achieve.
Conclusion
In sum, when deciding between the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, you should consider your typing preferences and environment. If you prefer a bouncy typing experience with a clean and clacky sound profile, the Polaris Gray switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a neutral sound signature and medium-light weight that offers a balance of comfort and precision, the Dareu Sky V3 switch may be the better option for you. Ultimately, the Polaris Gray switch is ideal for those who enjoy a low-pitched and thocky sound, while the Sky V3 switch is suitable for those looking for a more subdued sound. Both switches provide a mild typing experience, but the choice between the two ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style.
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