SP-Star Polaris Gray vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that offer distinct typing experiences are the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the TTC Speed Silver. The Polaris Gray switch is well-loved by those seeking a bouncy typing experience, characterized by a clean and clacky sound profile. Categorized as low-pitched, neutral, mild, thocky, and polished, these switches provide a unique feedback that some find enjoyable. On the other hand, the Speed Silver switch from TTC is renowned for its fast and precise typing experience. These tactile switches have a light-medium resistance, offering a pristine sound profile. With a reduced travel distance, they allow for quick and effortless actuation. Although these general pointers give a sense of each switch's features, it is important to delve deeper to make an informed decision based on your personal preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the TTC Speed Silver have some similarities and differences. Both switches use polycarbonate for their top housing. Polycarbonate is known to create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. It is also translucent, making it ideal for switches that use RGB lighting. Therefore, both switches will provide similar sound characteristics and aesthetic appeal in terms of their top housing.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Polaris Gray utilizes polycarbonate, while the Speed Silver uses nylon. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Polaris Gray will contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switch when it is pressed down. Its stiffness will enhance the bottom-out sound and provide a satisfying tactile feedback. On the other hand, the nylon bottom housing of the Speed Silver will offer a different typing experience. Nylon absorbs more sound due to its softer nature, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This softer plastic also contributes to a duller and rounder sound, which some users may prefer.
In summary, both switches share the benefits of utilizing polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in similar sound profiles and compatibility with RGB lighting. However, their differences lie in the choice of bottom housing material. The Polaris Gray's polycarbonate bottom housing enhances the bottom-out sound and provides a tactile feedback, while the Speed Silver's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound with a rounder and softer typing experience.
Weight
When comparing and contrasting the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, there are noticeable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Polaris Gray has an unknown actuation force, while the Speed Silver requires 45 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Polaris Gray is heavier with a measurement of 67 grams, whereas the Speed Silver has a lighter bottom out force of 55 grams.
Weight is an important factor to consider when choosing between these switches. A lighter switch, like the Speed Silver, is favored by those who prefer a lighter typing experience, as it allows them to type for longer periods without fatigue. This is beneficial for individuals who use their keyboards extensively at work or during long gaming sessions.
On the other hand, there are users who prefer a more substantial typing experience and a stronger push feel. For them, the Polaris Gray switch with its heavier bottom out force may be the better choice. The actuation force for the Polaris Gray is unavailable, which means it is not known whether it requires more or less force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Speed Silver.
Overall, when it comes to actuation force and bottom out force, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch is lighter in both aspects compared to the SP-Star Polaris Gray. However, if an individual prefers a stronger push feel and a heavier typing experience, the Polaris Gray may be a suitable option.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, it is clear that they have different distances. The Polaris Gray has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is a more traditional length, while the Speed Silver has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This difference may seem small, but it can make a noticeable impact on the typing or gaming experience. Gamers, in particular, often prefer shorter travel distances as they allow for faster response times. So, if you are looking for a more responsive switch, the Speed Silver would be the better option. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt or shallow, preferring a more substantial depth in their switches. In such cases, the Polaris Gray with its longer travel distance would be the suitable choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches comes down to personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
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 TTC Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
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 switch is known for its clean and clacky sound profile. These linear switches have a low-pitched tone, which means they produce a bass-heavy and mellow sound compared to higher-pitched switches. Additionally, they are described as thocky, meaning they produce a deep and satisfying sound when pressed. On the other hand, the TTC Speed Silver switch has a neutral sound profile. It doesn't have any specific characteristics mentioned, but it is suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user. It's important to note that the sound of switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, both switches offer different sound profiles, with the Polaris Gray providing a more unique and bass-heavy experience, while the Speed Silver offers a more neutral sound.
In terms of feel, both the Polaris Gray and the Speed Silver switches provide a mild typing experience. This means that they offer a gentle typing feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Both switches have a polished finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. The polished finish reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel. This polished feel can be attributed to the materials used in the construction of the switch or the factory lubing process. With both switches, users can expect a smooth and refined typing experience that falls within the safe and middle-ground zone. In terms of feel, both switches offer similar qualities, providing a comfortable typing experience.
Considering the available information, the SP-Star Polaris Gray and TTC Speed Silver switches offer different subjective qualities. The Polaris Gray switch is best for those who prefer a bouncy typing experience, with a clean and clacky sound profile that is low-pitched and thocky. On the other hand, the Speed Silver switch is perfect for those who value a fast and precise typing experience. While the sound profile of the Speed Silver is not explicitly described, it is considered neutral and suitable for most purposes. Both switches offer a mild feel with a polished finish for a smooth typing experience. It's important to consider personal preferences when choosing between these switches, as the Polaris Gray provides a more unique and bass-heavy sound, while the Speed Silver offers a neutral sound. However, in terms of feel, users can expect similar results from both switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a bouncy typing experience and clean, clacky sound profile, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch would be a great choice for you. With a bottom out force of 67 grams, these switches offer a medium-heavy feel and a thocky sound when pressed. On the other hand, if you value a fast and precise typing experience, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch would be more suitable. With a bottom out force of 55 grams, these switches offer a lighter feel and a neutral sound profile. Both switches provide a mild typing experience and a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Ultimately, the choice between the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the TTC Speed Silver depends on whether you prioritize the typing experience or the sound profile and the specific force you prefer.
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