SP-Star Polaris Gray vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, there are plenty of options available to suit various preferences. Two popular linear switches worth considering are the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the KTT Strawberry. If you enjoy a bouncy typing experience and clean, clacky sound profile, the Polaris Gray might be the switch for you. With its low-pitched, neutral, mild, thocky, and polished attributes, this switch offers a comfortable and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, if you seek smooth actuation, a comfortable feel, and reliable performance, the Strawberry switch could be a great choice. Its attractive pink and clear housings, combined with low-pitched, frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished attributes, make for a delightful typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities, so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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 KTT Strawberry both utilize polycarbonate as the material for their top and bottom housings. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in switches, making it a popular choice for keyboard enthusiasts. Additionally, the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate leads to a more clear and resonant sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience.
One key similarity between the Polaris Gray and the Strawberry is their use of polycarbonate in both the top and bottom housings. This means that both switches will offer a similar sound profile and typing experience. Whether you are pressing down on the switch or releasing it, the polycarbonate material will contribute to the sharp and crisp sound that is associated with this type of plastic, providing a consistent feel and audio feedback.
However, it's worth noting that if the top and bottom housings differ for a switch, the qualities of the housing material will be split between the two. In the case of the Polaris Gray and the Strawberry, the bottom housing will have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down. Conversely, the top housing will influence the sound when a key is released. This differentiation in housing materials allows for a nuanced typing experience, where users can appreciate the distinct characteristics of each housing component.
Overall, both the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the KTT Strawberry showcase the benefits of using polycarbonate as the material for their housing components. These switches offer a sharp, high-pitched, and resonant sound profile, creating a satisfying typing experience for users. Whether they are pressing down on the key or releasing it, the polycarbonate material provides consistent audio feedback. The difference in housing materials between the top and bottom housings further enhances the overall typing experience, allowing users to appreciate the unique qualities of each component.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch in terms of actuation force and bottom out force, there are noticeable differences. The Polaris Gray switch has an actuation force which is unavailable in the given information, while the Strawberry switch has an actuation force of 43 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Polaris Gray switch requires 67 grams of force, which can be considered medium-heavy, while the Strawberry switch requires 62 grams, which is classified as medium.
Considering the weight of the switches, some individuals prefer lighter switches as it allows them to type for longer periods of time, making it ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. However, others prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. For those seeking a heavier force, the Polaris Gray switch may be more suitable due to its higher bottom out force. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry switch offers a lighter actuation force, allowing for a quicker keystroke response.
As the actuation force for the Polaris Gray switch is unavailable, it is difficult to draw a direct comparison to the Strawberry switch. However, based on the provided information, it appears that the Strawberry switch has a lighter actuation force compared to the Polaris Gray. Both switches have comparable bottom out forces, with the Polaris Gray being slightly heavier at 67 grams, while the Strawberry requires 62 grams.
In conclusion, individuals who prefer a lighter actuation force and medium bottom out force may find the KTT Strawberry linear switch more suitable. On the other hand, those seeking a potentially heavier actuation force and a medium-heavy bottom out force may lean towards the SP-Star Polaris Gray switch.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch refers to the distance it covers from the top to the bottom when pressed. In the case of the SP-Star Polaris Gray and KTT Strawberry linear switches, 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 4 mm of travel. This similarity in travel distance ensures a consistent typing experience between the two switches, allowing users to achieve similar results regardless of the switch they choose. Therefore, the travel distance of both the SP-Star Polaris Gray and KTT Strawberry linear switches is equal.
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 KTT Strawberry comes in at $4.91 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
When it comes to sound, the SP-Star Polaris Gray and KTT Strawberry switches both offer a low-pitched tone. Low-pitched switches typically produce a more bass-heavy and mellow sound compared to higher-pitched switches. However, the Polaris Gray switches have an additional descriptor of "thocky," which means they provide a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. This can be likened to a deep "thud" or a soft "knock" when the key is pressed and released. On the other hand, the sound profile of the Strawberry switches, aside from being low-pitched, is not specified. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Thus, if you use the Polaris Gray or Strawberry switches on the same setup, you can expect similar low-pitched tones, but the Polaris Gray may have a more noticeable thocky sound.
In terms of feel, the Polaris Gray switches offer a mild and polished typing experience. A mild switch provides a gentle typing experience, while being suitable for most users due to its middle-ground qualities. Additionally, a polished switch indicates a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry switches are described as frictionless, silky, buttery, and polished. This means they offer an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience, minimizing resistance or friction when pressing the keys. Similar to the Polaris Gray, the Strawberry switches also have a polished characteristic, providing a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Therefore, both switches offer smooth and comfortable typing experiences. If you prefer a milder feel, Polaris Gray may be a suitable choice, while the Strawberry switches provide an exceptional level of smoothness.
Taking into consideration the available information, the SP-Star Polaris Gray and KTT Strawberry switches have some subjective qualities that differentiate them. In terms of sound, both switches offer a low-pitched tone, but the Polaris Gray stands out with its thocky characteristic, providing a deep and satisfying sound. When it comes to feel, both switches offer smooth and comfortable typing experiences, with the Polaris Gray being milder and the Strawberry switches being exceptionally smooth and effortless. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel. However, if one desires a low-pitched, mild, and polished switch, the Polaris Gray may be a suitable option. Conversely, if one seeks a low-pitched switch with an emphasis on smoothness, the KTT Strawberry switches would be a great choice. Regardless of the choice made, it is crucial to consider other factors such as keyboard board and keycap selection, as they can influence the final typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style.
If you value a bouncy typing experience with a clean and clacky sound profile, then the Polaris Gray switch would be a great choice for you. With a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, it provides a satisfying tactile feedback while typing. In terms of sound, the Polaris Gray switch offers a low-pitched and thocky tone, which adds to the overall enjoyment of typing.
On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth actuation and comfortable feel during typing, the KTT Strawberry switch is worth considering. With a medium bottom out force of 62 grams, it provides a balanced typing experience suitable for various users. The Strawberry switch is known for its attractive pink and clear housings, as well as its reliable performance. In terms of sound, it offers a low-pitched profile, giving you a mellow and bass-heavy tone while typing.
Both switches have their unique advantages. The Polaris Gray switch offers a mildly polished feel, which provides a gentle and approachable typing experience. On the other hand, the Strawberry switch offers a frictionless and silky feel, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction during typing. Both switches also have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In the end, whether you choose the SP-Star Polaris Gray switch or the KTT Strawberry switch, you can expect a high-quality mechanical keyboard switch that enhances your typing experience. Consider your preferred typing style, sound profile, and feel when making your decision. With these guidelines, you can confidently choose the switch that best suits your needs.
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