SP-Star Polaris Gray vs. Gazzew U4
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Gazzew U4 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two options stand out: the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Gazzew U4. The Polaris Gray offers a bouncy typing experience, accompanied by a clean and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the U4 provides a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump, with a surprisingly plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation. In terms of sound, the U4 takes the lead with its whisper-quiet profile. While these general descriptions may give you a rough idea of what to expect, 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
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
Stainless steel 14mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Gazzew U4 differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Polaris Gray features a polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to polycarbonate's relatively stiffer nature, which allows for a more clear and resonant sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it particularly suitable for switches that utilize RGB lighting. In contrast, the U4 utilizes Gazzew blend plastic in its top housing, known as "boba plastic," which delivers a rich and deep sound profile thanks to its softness. Therefore, while both materials offer distinct sound qualities, the Polaris Gray's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper profile compared to the deep tones produced by the U4's Gazzew blend top housing.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Polaris Gray's polycarbonate material continues to contribute to its sound profile, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Similarly to the top housing, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 employs a proprietary Gazzew blend plastic in its bottom housing, which also contributes to the overall sound profile of the switch. This blend, often dubbed "boba plastic," is known for delivering a rich and deep sound thanks to its softness. Consequently, the U4's bottom housing offers a distinctly different sound profile from the Polaris Gray's polycarbonate bottom housing, showcasing deeper tones and a more muted sound.
While the housing materials of the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Gazzew U4 differ in composition, it is important to note that the qualities each housing material brings are distributed between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on either switch, the bottom housing will have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will play a more prominent role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, although the housing materials vary between the two switches, the way they contribute to the overall sound experience aligns with their respective top and bottom positions.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, they exhibit noticeable differences. The Polaris Gray linear switch has an actuation force that is unavailable, making it difficult to make a direct comparison. However, its bottom out force is quite substantial at 67 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch has an actuation force of 43 grams, making it lighter than the Polaris Gray. Its bottom out force of 62 grams falls into the medium category.
Considering weight in the decision-making process, those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods may find the Gazzew U4 tactile switch more suitable. This lighter actuation force allows for more comfortable and effortless typing, making it ideal for situations like office work or prolonged gaming sessions. However, for individuals who desire a stronger and more substantial keystroke, the Polaris Gray's heavier bottom out force can provide a satisfying push feel. This can be a preferred choice for those who appreciate a more tactile typing experience.
In summary, the actuation and bottom out forces of the SP-Star Polaris Gray and Gazzew U4 tactile switches differ in terms of weight. The Polaris Gray exhibits a heavier bottom out force, while the Gazzew U4 is lighter in terms of actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preferences regarding typing experience and the desired level of force required for optimal performance.
Travel distance
The SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch has a travel distance of 4.0mm, while the Gazzew U4 tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6mm. Overall, the Polaris Gray has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the U4. The Polaris Gray's 4.0mm travel distance is more in line with traditional switch travel distances, while the U4's 3.6mm is slightly shallower.
In terms of preference, gamers often lean towards shorter travel distances for faster response times, making the U4 a popular choice for gaming. The shorter travel distance allows for quicker keystrokes and potentially improved gameplay. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances too abrupt or lacking in depth. For those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key, the Polaris Gray with its longer travel distance may be the better option.
Ultimately, the choice between the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Gazzew U4 comes down to personal preference. Whether you prioritize faster response times or a more hearty typing experience will determine which switch is the better fit for you.
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 Gazzew U4 comes in at $6.50 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
The SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch have distinct differences in sound and feel.
In terms of sound, the Polaris Gray is known for producing a clean and clacky sound. With its low-pitched profile, these switches offer a bass-heavy and mellow tone. The sound can be described as thocky, providing a deep and satisfying "thud" or soft "knock" when the key is pressed and released. On the other hand, the U4 offers a whisper-quiet sound profile. It is described as muted, producing softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches. It also has a low-pitched profile, delivering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone.
Moving on to feel, the Polaris Gray is known for providing a bouncy typing experience. These switches have a mild and polished feel, offering a gentle typing experience with smooth and refined key travel. The U4, on the other hand, offers a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump. Each keypress is accompanied by a strong and crisp tactile feedback, allowing for a distinct and pronounced typing experience. Additionally, the U4 provides an unexpectedly plush and felt-like bottom-out sensation.
Taking all the available information into consideration, if you prefer a bouncy typing experience with a clean and clacky sound, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch would be a suitable choice. However, if you are looking for a sharp tactile bump with a whisper-quiet sound and a plush bottom-out sensation, the Gazzew U4 tactile switch would be a great option. It's important to remember that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when choosing between the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you prefer a bouncy typing experience with a clean and clacky sound, the Polaris Gray switch is the one for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump with a plush felt-like bottom-out sensation and a whisper quiet sound profile, the U4 switch is the perfect choice. In terms of sound, the Polaris Gray switch offers a low-pitched and thocky sound profile, while the U4 switch provides a muted and low-pitched tone. When it comes to feel, the Polaris Gray switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, while the U4 switch provides a sharp and intense tactile feedback. Ultimately, it is important to consider your personal preferences for typing experience when deciding between these two switches.
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