SP-Star Polaris Gray vs. TKC Tangerine
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the TKC Tangerine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The SP-Star Polaris Gray and the TKC Tangerine are two fantastic mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique typing experiences. The Polaris Gray is perfect for those who enjoy a bouncy typing experience, with a clean and clacky sound profile. Categorized as low-pitched, neutral, mild, thocky, and polished, these switches provide a unique feel that enhances your typing comfort. On the other hand, the Tangerine switches are known for taking your typing experience to the next level. With an incredibly smooth feel and a high-pitched clack, each keystroke becomes a pleasure. What sets the Tangerine switches apart is the use of UHWMPE housings, a rarity in the world of bespoke mechanical switches, providing a frictionless and buttery 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the TKC Tangerine switches have distinct differences. The Polaris Gray features a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, enhancing the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for incorporating RGB lighting, making it visually appealing as well. On the other hand, the Tangerine switch utilizes a UHWMPE top housing, a newer material that offers a very bright sound signature. This material produces resonant clacks when typing, adding to the overall typing experience.
In terms of bottom housings, both the Polaris Gray and Tangerine switches adopt different materials. The Polaris Gray utilizes polycarbonate for its bottom housing, similar to its top housing. Consequently, the switch retains the sharp, higher-pitched, and crisp sound profile associated with polycarbonate. The Tangerine switch, however, employs a UHWMPE bottom housing, which implies that it brings a different sound and feel to the bottom-out sensation. Although not explicitly described, it can be inferred that the bottom housing material influences the overall typing experience by impacting the sound and tactile feedback upon pressing a key.
Considering the impact of the top and bottom housing materials on the switches, it becomes evident that they are critical in determining the sound profile during different moments of keyboard usage. While the bottom housing material primarily influences the bottom-out sound and feel, it is the top housing material that plays a more prominent role in the sound produced upon releasing a key. With these distinctions in mind, it is important to carefully consider the housing materials of the switches when seeking a specific sound profile or typing experience. While the Polaris Gray and Tangerine switches share certain characteristics in terms of housing materials, their differences in top and bottom housings ensure unique sound profiles and overall typing sensations for each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, there are some notable differences. The actuation force of both switches is unavailable, which means we cannot provide a direct comparison. However, in terms of the bottom out force, the Polaris Gray requires a slightly heavier force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy, while the Tangerine only requires 62 grams, positioning it as a medium switch.
Considering weight is important for various reasons. Some individuals prefer a lighter switch as it allows for longer typing sessions without causing excessive fatigue. This is particularly suitable for those who use their keyboard extensively at work or for extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, others prefer a more substantial typing experience and opt for switches with heavier forces, providing a stronger push feel.
In terms of the Polaris Gray, its medium-heavy bottom out force may be favored by those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Although the actuation force is not provided, there is a possibility that it aligns with the bottom out force in terms of heaviness. On the other hand, the Tangerine's medium bottom out force of 62 grams offers a good balance between a satisfying keystroke and less fatigue during longer typing sessions.
In conclusion, while the actuation forces remain unknown, the Polaris Gray linear switch can be seen as the potentially heavier option with a medium-heavy 67-gram bottom out force. On the contrary, the TKC Tangerine linear switch is relatively lighter with a medium 62-gram bottom out force.
Travel distance
Both the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience a consistent 4 mm travel distance from the top to the bottom. Whether you choose the Polaris Gray or the Tangerine, you can expect a similar tactile experience in terms of travel distance.
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 TKC Tangerine comes in at $6.30 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 profile, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch is known for its clean and clacky sound. This is described as low-pitched and thocky, meaning it produces a deep and satisfying sound when pressed. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine linear switch has a high-pitched sound, which is sharp and crisp. This might be preferred by those who enjoy a more bright and sharp sound profile. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be affected by other factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Polaris Gray is described as providing a mild and polished typing experience. A mild switch offers a gentle typing experience, suitable for most users, while a polished switch indicates a smooth and refined finish. This results in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Tangerine switch is known for its frictionless and buttery feel. This means that it offers an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction when pressing the keys. Overall, both switches provide a polished and smooth typing sensation, but the Tangerine switch takes it to the next level with its emphasis on frictionless and buttery feel.
Taking into account the available information, the Polaris Gray and Tangerine switches offer different subjective qualities. The Polaris Gray provides a bouncy and clean typing experience with a low-pitched and thocky sound profile. It offers a mild and polished feel, suitable for most users. On the other hand, the Tangerine switch offers an incredibly smooth feel, thanks to its UHWMPE housings, and produces a high-pitched clack. It provides a frictionless and buttery typing experience.
It's important to consider personal preferences when choosing between these two switches. If you prefer a bouncy typing experience with a low-pitched and thocky sound, the Polaris Gray might be the better option for you. However, if you enjoy an incredibly smooth and frictionless feel with a high-pitched sound, the TKC Tangerine would be a great choice. Keep in mind that individual results may vary depending on factors such as keyboard choice and keycaps. Overall, both switches offer unique and enjoyable typing experiences for different preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a bouncy typing experience with a clean and clacky sound profile, the Polaris Gray switch is the ideal choice for you. With a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, it provides a satisfying level of feedback. Additionally, the Polaris Gray is known for its low-pitched, neutral, and thocky sound profile, offering a deep and mellow tone.
On the other hand, if you prioritize an incredibly smooth typing experience, the TKC Tangerine switch is the way to go. With a medium bottom out force of 62 grams, it offers a comfortable typing feel. The Tangerine switch stands out for its use of UHWMPE housings, which contribute to its smoothness. Furthermore, it provides a high-pitched sound profile, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed.
Ultimately, whether you prefer a bouncy and clacky typing experience with the Polaris Gray or a super smooth feel with the Tangerine, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience. It's important to consider factors such as sound, feel, and typing preference when making your decision. Experimenting with different switches and finding the one that fits your needs and preferences is the key to finding your perfect mechanical keyboard switch.
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