SP-Star Polaris Gray vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the SP-Star Duck 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 SP-Star Duck. 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 Duck is a tactile switch, offering a more subtle tactile typing experience with a gentle tactility and clean, crispy sound profile. If you prefer a switch that provides a bouncy feel and clean sound, the Polaris Gray is a great choice. However, if you are looking for a switch with a subtle tactile feedback and a clean, crispy sound, the Duck is perfect for you. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
58g
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
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
Gold plated
Housing materials
The SP-Star Polaris Gray and the SP-Star Duck both feature polycarbonate housing materials for their top and bottom housings. This choice of material in both switches creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to polycarbonate's stiffness that leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows for a more vibrant and visually appealing lighting effect.
However, despite the similarities in their housing materials, it's important to note that if the top and bottom housings differ in a switch, the qualities brought by each material will be split between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on either the Polaris Gray or the Duck, the qualities of their respective bottom housings will be felt, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing will have a more noticeable impact on the sound produced when releasing a key.
Overall, the use of polycarbonate in the housing materials of both the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the SP-Star Duck ensures a similar sound profile characterized by sharpness, higher pitches, and crispness. The choice of housing material also enhances the visual appeal of the switches, particularly when utilizing RGB lighting. However, it's important to consider the potential differences in sound and feel between the top and bottom housing materials in switches that feature varied materials for each component.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, their actuation forces and bottom out forces differ. The Polaris Gray's actuation force is unknown, while the Duck's actuation force is also unavailable. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Polaris Gray requires a heavier force of 67 grams, which is considered medium-heavy, whereas the Duck requires a slightly lighter force of 58 grams, classified as medium.
Considering weight is essential for various reasons. Those who prefer a lighter switch may find it beneficial as it allows them to type for extended periods, making it suitable for work keyboards or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, some individuals prefer a stronger push feel to enhance their typing experience, favoring options with heavier forces.
While the specific actuation forces for these switches are unknown, it can be assumed that the actuation forces are likely to be similar, as they are from the same SP-Star brand. Consequently, users can expect comparable results when it comes to the triggering of keystrokes. However, the difference lies in the bottom out force, with the Polaris Gray being heavier and the Duck being slightly lighter. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing experiences and desired force requirements.
Travel distance
The SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either switch, you will feel the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Their travel distances are equal, ensuring a consistent typing experience for users of both switches.
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 SP-Star Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck for $5.40.
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 linear switch is known for its low-pitched and thocky sound profile. Low-pitched switches typically produce a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches, and the Polaris Gray embodies this with a deep, rich, and satisfying sound. The thocky attribute further enhances the typing experience by providing a soft "knock" sound when the key is pressed and released. On the other hand, the Duck tactile switch has a neutral sound profile, which means it has a moderate sound that suits a variety of purposes.
Moving on to feel, both the Polaris Gray linear switch and the Duck tactile switch offer a mild typing experience. A mild switch ensures a more approachable and comfortable typing experience as it falls within a safe middle-ground zone. Additionally, both switches are described as polished, which means they have a smooth and refined finish resulting in a sleek typing experience. This smoothness can be attributed to the materials used or factory lubing, which reduces friction and allows for smooth key travel. The Duck switch goes a step further with its buttery attribute, indicating a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation.
Considering the available information, the Polaris Gray linear switch and the Duck tactile switch differ in terms of sound, with the Polaris Gray having a low-pitched and thocky profile, while the Duck has a neutral sound. However, the two switches share similar qualities when it comes to feel, offering a mild and polished typing experience. Both switches prioritize comfort and smoothness, ensuring a pleasant typing experience for users. It's important to note that the sound and feel of the switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you prefer a bouncy typing experience with a slightly heavier bottom out force, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. These switches provide a clean and clacky sound profile, with a low-pitched thocky sound when pressed. Additionally, they offer a mild and polished feel, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience.
On the other hand, if you are looking for a more subtle tactile typing experience, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch is perfect for you. With a medium bottom out force, these switches offer a gentle tactility and a clean and crispy sound profile. They provide a mild and buttery feel, allowing for a smooth and fluid keystroke experience.
Ultimately, both the Polaris Gray linear switch and the Duck tactile switch have their own unique characteristics and are suitable for different preferences. Consider your typing style, sound preferences, and desired tactile experience when making a decision between the two.
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