SP-Star Polaris Gray vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Gateron Smoothie both offer unique experiences for users. The Polaris Gray is a linear switch that provides a bouncy typing experience, with a clean and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie is also a linear switch but is known for its all-POM construction, offering a thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch. While the Polaris Gray is categorized as low-pitched, neutral, mild, thocky, and polished, the Gateron Smoothie is described as buttery, thocky, low-pitched, creamy, subdued, and silky. Each switch has its own strengths and qualities that may appeal to different users based on their preferences. 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
3.60 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Gateron Smoothie, it is clear that both switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Polaris Gray features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile and being translucent for RGB lighting effects. In contrast, the Smoothie uses a POM top housing that produces a unique, deeper sound profile that is more muted. This difference in material results in distinct sound qualities that cater to different preferences in keyboard enthusiasts.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Polaris Gray and the Smoothie continue to diverge in their choice of materials. The Polaris Gray utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a sharper and crisper sound profile when typing. Conversely, the Smoothie opts for a POM bottom housing that offers a more pleasing and muted sound while typing. This contrast highlights how the housing material plays a significant role in determining the overall sound and feel of a keyboard switch, catering to different preferences and typing styles.
While the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Gateron Smoothie feature different housing materials for their top and bottom housings, the impact of these materials on the overall typing experience is significant. The bottom housing of a switch influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both switches prioritize providing a unique and enjoyable typing experience for users, showcasing the importance of housing materials in determining the sound profile and feel of mechanical keyboard switches.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, it is clear that they have significant differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Polaris Gray has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch, whereas the Smoothie has an actuation force of 40 grams. The actuation force of the Polaris Gray is not specified, but it is clear that it requires more force to bottom out compared to the Smoothie, which has an unknown bottom out force. This means that the Polaris Gray is the heavier switch between the two. The weight of a switch is important as it can affect typing comfort and fatigue over extended use. Those looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the Gateron Smoothie, while those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Polaris Gray. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch is 4 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Polaris Gray being slightly longer than the Smoothie. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Smoothie for quicker response times, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may opt for the Polaris Gray. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and typing style.
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 Gateron Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie for $2.60.
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, both the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Gateron Smoothie linear switches offer a thocky sound profile. However, the Polaris Gray switch is also described as having a low-pitched and neutral sound, which provides a bass-heavy and mellow tone suitable for most users. On the other hand, the Smoothie switch offers a subdued sound, providing a dampened and subtle sound signature. Ultimately, both switches will deliver a deep and satisfying sound experience, with the Polaris Gray offering a slightly more versatile sound profile compared to the Gateron Smoothie.
Moving on to feel, the SP-Star Polaris Gray switch is characterized by a mild and polished typing experience, offering a gentle and refined feel that falls in a safe middle-ground zone suitable for most users. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie switch is described as buttery, creamy, and silky, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with minimal resistance and effortless key travel. While both switches aim to offer a comfortable typing experience, the Smoothie switch stands out for its exceptionally smooth sensation and uniform typing feel, thanks to the application of lubricant at the factory.
Overall, the SP-Star Polaris Gray and Gateron Smoothie linear switches both excel in providing satisfying sound profiles and comfortable typing experiences. While the Polaris Gray offers a cleaner and clackier sound with a versatile feel, the Gateron Smoothie stands out for its thocky sound and buttery-smooth typing sensation. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. Whether you opt for the Polaris Gray or the Smoothie switch, you can expect a high-quality mechanical keyboard switch that enhances your overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a bouncy typing experience with a clean and clacky sound profile, the Polaris Gray may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch, the Gateron Smoothie might be more appealing. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the typing feel and sound characteristics that align best with your personal preferences.
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