SP-Star Polaris Gray vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Jwick Taro. The Polaris Gray is a linear switch that offers a bouncy typing experience and a clean, clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Taro is a tactile switch with a cozy typing experience, providing a snappy and medium-level of tactility, accompanied by acute and crisp clacks. The Polaris Gray is known for its low-pitched, mild, and thocky characteristics, while the Taro boasts a neutral, buttery, and stepped feel. Both switches have their unique advantages, but let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you decide which switch is best suited for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Jwick Taro keyboards both utilize polycarbonate as their top housing material. This choice brings several benefits to both switches. Firstly, due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, both keyboards offer a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This enhances the typing experience, especially for those who prefer a more distinct and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is particularly advantageous for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows the lights to shine through and create visually appealing effects.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the two keyboards differ. The SP-Star Polaris Gray uses polycarbonate, similar to the top housing, while the Jwick Taro utilizes nylon. Nylon, being a softer plastic, provides a contrasting typing experience. Switches with nylon bottom housing elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile, as the material absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This creates a duller and rounder sound, which may be preferred by individuals looking for a more relaxed typing experience.
It's worth noting that the impact of the housing materials varies depending on which part of the switch is being engaged. When pressing down on either keyboard, the properties of the bottom housing become more evident, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing has a greater influence on the sound produced when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both keyboards ultimately offer unique and enjoyable typing experiences, each tailored to meet different user preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, there are a few similarities and differences to note. Firstly, both switches have a bottom out force of 67 grams, which falls into the medium-heavy range. This means that when pressing the keys all the way down, the two switches offer a similar level of resistance. However, it is worth mentioning that the actuation force for both switches is unavailable, so it is unclear how much force is required to trigger a keystroke.
In terms of weight, the lighter option would be more suitable for individuals who prefer longer typing sessions or extended gaming sessions. This lightness allows for reduced finger fatigue and increased comfort during prolonged use. On the other hand, those seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for a switch with a heavier actuation force. This provides a stronger push feel and can enhance the tactile feedback while typing. Since the actuation force is unavailable for both the Polaris Gray and the Taro switches, it is unclear which one is lighter and which one is heavier. Thus, it is difficult to determine which switch would cater more to the preferences of those who favor lighter or heavier forces.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch is 4.0 mm, while the Jwick Taro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Polaris Gray is slightly longer than the Taro. A 4.0 mm travel distance is considered to be more traditional, while a 3.7 mm travel distance is slightly shallower. However, it should be noted that shorter travel distances are becoming more popular, especially among gamers who prefer faster response times. If you value a more responsive typing experience, the Taro with its shorter travel distance might be the better option for you. On the other hand, some individuals find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt and prefer a deeper feel. If you prefer a more hearty typing experience, the Polaris Gray with its slightly longer travel distance may be the more suitable choice. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable to the individual user.
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 Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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 SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch is known for its clean and clacky sound profile. These low-pitched switches have a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. They also produce a satisfying "thocky" sound when pressed and released. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro tactile switch has a neutral sound profile, suitable for most intents and purposes. The sound of both switches will also depend on other factors such as the choice of board and keycaps. Therefore, if you prefer a low-pitched and "thocky" sound, the Polaris Gray would be a good choice. If you prefer a neutral sound without specific characteristics, the Taro switch will provide a similar experience.
When it comes to feel, the Polaris Gray linear switch offers a mild and polished typing experience. A mild switch provides a gentle typing sensation, suitable for most users. The Polaris Gray switch is also described as polished, meaning it has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro tactile switch provides a buttery and stepped typing experience. A buttery switch implies a smooth and fluid keystroke, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The stepped characteristic of the Taro switch means it has two stages of tactile feedback, with a mild sensation of pre-travel and/or post-travel. If you prefer a mild and polished feel, the Polaris Gray switch is recommended. If you enjoy a buttery and stepped tactile experience, the Taro switch will provide a similar feel.
In conclusion, based on the available information, both the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Polaris Gray switch provides a low-pitched and "thocky" sound with a mild and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Taro switch offers a neutral sound profile with a buttery and stepped feel. Depending on your preferences, you can choose either switch to achieve a satisfying typing experience. Additionally, it's important to consider other factors such as your choice of keyboard and keycaps, as they can also influence the overall sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a bouncy typing experience and enjoy clean and clacky sounds, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch would be a great choice for you. These switches have a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a satisfying level of resistance. They are also described as having a low-pitched sound profile, which produces deep and satisfying "thocky" sounds when pressed. In terms of feel, the Polaris Gray switches offer a mild and polished typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a cozy typing experience with snappy tactility and acute clacks, the Jwick Taro tactile switch would be a better fit. Like the Polaris Gray, these switches also have a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams. The Taro switches are described as having a neutral sound profile, suitable for various purposes. In terms of feel, they provide a buttery and stepped typing sensation, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with a mild tactile feedback.
Ultimately, the choice between the SP-Star Polaris Gray and Jwick Taro switches depends on your personal preferences in terms of typing experience, sound profile, and tactile feedback. Whether you prioritize a bouncy typing experience with clean and clacky sounds or a cozy typing experience with snappy tactility, both switches offer qualities that cater to different preferences. Consider your desired feel and sound when making your decision.
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