SP-Star Polaris Gray vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the HMX Swift mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique features to cater to different preferences. The Polaris Gray is favored for its bouncy typing experience and clean, clacky sound profile, making it a suitable choice for those who enjoy a low-pitched and polished feel while typing. On the other hand, the HMX Swift stands out for its deep sound profile and silky smoothness, thanks to its full nylon housings and delicate 42g actuation force. The Swift is known for its easy-to-press and feathery feel, making it a great option for users looking for a creamy and clacky typing experience. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the HMX Swift, we can see that both switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housing components. The Polaris Gray uses polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housings, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile due to the stiffness of the plastic. In contrast, the Swift utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housings, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to the softer nature of nylon. While both switches offer unique sound characteristics based on their housing materials, they cater to different preferences in terms of sound quality.
While the top housings of the Polaris Gray and Swift switches differ in material, with the former using polycarbonate and the latter using nylon, the top housing is more responsible for the sound produced when pressing down on a key. The polycarbonate top housing of the Polaris Gray creates a clear and resonant sound profile, while the nylon top housing of the Swift produces a richer and fuller sound. Both materials have their advantages and contribute to the overall typing experience on these switches. However, the difference in top housing material may lead to a slight variation in sound when typing on these switches.
Ultimately, the choice between the Polaris Gray and the HMX Swift will depend on the user's preference for sound profile and typing feel. The polycarbonate housing of the Polaris Gray offers a sharper and crisper sound, ideal for those seeking a more precise typing experience. On the other hand, the nylon housing of the Swift provides a deeper and fuller sound, perfect for users who prefer a more rounded typing feel. Despite the differences in housing materials, both switches are designed to enhance the typing experience and cater to a variety of preferences in terms of sound and feel.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, it is evident that these switches have different weight characteristics. The Polaris Gray has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is medium-heavy, while the Swift has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams. The actuation force of the Polaris Gray is not specified, while the Swift has an actuation force of 42 grams. This makes the Swift the lighter option of the two switches. The Polaris Gray provides a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force, which some users may prefer for a more tactile feel. On the other hand, the Swift's lighter bottom out force may be more suitable for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. Overall, the choice between these switches will ultimately depend on the user's preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, it is clear that the Polaris Gray has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Swift's 3.9 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Polaris Gray being on the longer side and the Swift being slightly shorter. Gamers who prioritize speed and response times may prefer the Swift due to its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing may lean towards the Polaris Gray. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences 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 HMX Swift has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Swift for $2.99.
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 linear switch is best described as having a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, resulting in a more bass-heavy and mellow tone that is suitable for various typing environments. The sound produced by these switches can be categorized as thocky, providing a deep and satisfying sound when pressed. On the other hand, the HMX Swift linear switch is known for its clacky sound, delivering a sharp and snappy tone that is crisp, bright, and percussive. This difference in sound profile between the two switches can be attributed to factors such as housing material, keycap choice, and typing technique.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, providing a gentle and refined feel that is approachable to most users. The smooth and gentle actuation of these switches results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing experience. In contrast, the HMX Swift linear switch is characterized by its easy-to-press and feathery feel, requiring minimal force to activate and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the bouncy and creamy sensation of these switches adds a spring-like feedback and smooth, buttery typing experience.
Overall, when comparing the subjective qualities of the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, it is evident that they offer distinct sound and feel profiles to cater to different preferences. While the Polaris Gray switch provides a mellow and polished typing experience with a thocky sound, the Swift switch delivers a bright and clacky typing feel with a silky smoothness. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference in sound and feel, but both switches are sure to provide a satisfying typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a bouncy and clean typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and lighter typing feel with a deep sound profile and light bottom out force, the HMX Swift linear switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preference in terms of typing experience, sound profile, and actuation force. Consider what qualities are most important to you when selecting the perfect switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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