SP-Star Polaris Gray vs. Jwick Splash Brothers
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Jwick Splash Brothers switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that offer unique typing experiences are the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Jwick Splash Brothers. The Polaris Gray stands out for those who prefer a bouncy typing experience, with a clean and clacky sound profile. Categorized as low-pitched, neutral, and thocky, these switches provide a polished feel. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers switches offer a dynamic typing feel, with their shorter activation and long pole stem delivering a satisfying experience. These switches have a creamy sound signature and are categorized as neutral, mild, snappy, bouncy, subtle, and polished. Both switches offer their own strengths, but let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you decide which one is the best fit for your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Extended long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Jwick Splash Brothers share many similarities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, allowing for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, both switches feature a translucent top housing, making them ideal for use with RGB lighting. In terms of aesthetics and sound output, users can expect similar results from both switches.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, there is a notable difference between the two switches. The Polaris Gray incorporates a polycarbonate bottom housing, which complements the top housing in terms of sound profile. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers utilizes a nylon bottom housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. This is because nylon is a relatively softer material that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, users can expect a slightly different typing experience between these two switches, with the Polaris Gray offering a sharper sound and the Splash Brothers providing a deeper sound.
In terms of functionality, the housing materials of the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Jwick Splash Brothers play distinct roles. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. The use of polycarbonate or nylon in these housings contributes to the overall tactile experience and sound perception during typing. Thus, while the switches may have some similarities, the material choice for the bottom housing introduces a noticeable difference that can be appreciated by users seeking a specific sound profile for their mechanical keyboards.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Polaris Gray has an actuation force of unavailable grams, whereas the Splash Brothers also has an unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Polaris Gray requires 67 grams, which can be considered medium-heavy, while the Splash Brothers only requires 48 grams, which is relatively light. This means that the Polaris Gray provides a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience, making it suitable for those who prefer a heavier switch. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers offers a lighter typing experience, making it a favorable choice for individuals who value extended typing periods and gaming sessions without fatigue. Despite the unknown actuation force for both switches, it is safe to assume that they will provide similar results in terms of triggering keystrokes. Ultimately, the weight of the switch plays a significant role in determining one's typing preference and comfort level during extended use.
Travel distance
The SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Polaris Gray has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Splash Brothers switch. A travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered more traditional, while 3.5 mm is on the shorter side. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times, so if you prioritize responsiveness, the Splash Brothers switch may be the better choice for you. However, some individuals find short travel distances to be too abrupt and prefer a greater depth in their keystrokes. If you value a more hearty feel when pressing down on a key, the Polaris Gray switch with its longer travel distance may be more suitable for your preferences.
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 Jwick Splash Brothers comes in at $2.49 per 10 switches.
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 low-pitched, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. It has a clean and clacky sound profile, which can be quite satisfying. On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch has a neutral sound profile. While the specific sound characteristics are not mentioned, its creamy sound signature implies a smooth and pleasant typing experience. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen. Both switches offer a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various purposes and skill levels.
When it comes to feel, both the Polaris Gray and the Splash Brothers linear switches are described as providing a mild typing experience. This means that they offer a more gentle and approachable feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Additionally, both switches are polished, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. This is due to either the materials used or factory lubing, reducing friction and ensuring smooth key travel. The Splash Brothers switch is also described as snappy, indicating a high level of responsiveness. Furthermore, it is bouncy, providing a spring-like sensation when pressed. The Polaris Gray switch, although not mentioned as snappy or bouncy, is likely to offer a similar level of liveliness and rebound due to its "bouncy" typing experience.
In conclusion, the Polaris Gray linear switch is known for its bouncy typing experience, clean and clacky sound profile, mild feel, and polished finish. Meanwhile, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch is praised for its shorter activation, long pole stem, creamy sound signature, mild feel, snappy response, bouncy feedback, and polished finish. While there may be slight differences between the two switches in terms of sound and feel, they share many similarities. Both switches offer a moderate actuation force requirement and a neutral sound profile. They also provide a gentle typing experience with a polished finish, ensuring smooth and frictionless key travel. Overall, both switches would be a great choice for those seeking a satisfying and versatile mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a bouncy typing experience with a clean and 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, it offers a medium-heavy feel. In terms of sound, the Polaris Gray switch provides a low-pitched, neutral, and thocky sound that is deep and satisfying. As for feel, this switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, with smooth key travel and reduced friction.
On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter typing experience with a creamy sound signature, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch is worth considering. With a bottom out force of 48 grams, it provides a lighter feel compared to the Polaris Gray. In terms of sound, the Splash Brothers switch has a neutral sound profile. In terms of feel, it offers a mild and snappy typing experience, with a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation and a gentle resistance. Like the Polaris Gray, it also has a polished finish for smooth and sleek key travel.
Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you enjoy a bouncy and clacky typing experience with a medium-heavy feel, go for the Polaris Gray. If you prefer a lighter and snappy typing experience with a creamy sound signature, the Splash Brothers may be the better option for you.
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