SP-Star Polaris Gray vs. Gazzew U4T
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Gazzew U4T switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between a linear switch and a tactile switch can greatly impact your typing experience. On one hand, we have the SP-Star Polaris Gray, a linear switch known for its bouncy typing experience and clean, clacky sound profile. This switch appeals to those who prefer a smooth keystroke without any interference from tactile feedback. On the other hand, we have the Gazzew U4T, a tactile switch that offers a harmonious fusion of thockiness and sharp tactility. With its bassy 'thock' sound profile and assertive tactile feedback, every keystroke provides both auditory and tactile satisfaction. While these generalities can give you a good starting point, it's essential to dive in deeper and consider specific preferences to determine 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
65g
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
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 17.5mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Gazzew U4T differ in terms of the materials used for their housing. The Polaris Gray features a polycarbonate top housing, which offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the U4T utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing that delivers a rich and deep sound profile. The softness of this blend contributes to the depth of the sound produced.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Polaris Gray and the U4T use different materials. The Polaris Gray utilizes polycarbonate, which similarly creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when compared to other plastic housing materials. As mentioned before, the transparency of polycarbonate is ideal for enhanced RGB lighting effects. On the contrary, the U4T uses a proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing. This "boba plastic" blend also contributes to a rich and deep sound profile, thanks to its softness.
When comparing the top and bottom housings of these switches, it is important to note that the qualities brought about by each housing material are divided between the top and bottom parts. While the bottom housing influences the sound and feel when the key is bottomed out, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when the key is released. This means that both the Polaris Gray and the U4T will offer unique sound characteristics, with the Polaris Gray focusing on sharper and crisper tones, while the U4T offers a deeper and richer sound quality.
Overall, although the Polaris Gray and the Gazzew U4T utilize different housing materials, they both aim to enhance the sound quality of their switches. The Polaris Gray utilizes polycarbonate for its top and bottom housings, offering a clear and resonant sound profile. On the other hand, the U4T incorporates a proprietary Gazzew blend, which delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. Users can expect varying sound characteristics from each switch, with the Polaris Gray focusing on sharper tones and the U4T offering a deeper sound experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, it is worth noting that both switches have unavailable grams for their actuation forces. This means that their actuation forces are either unknown or not specified. However, the Polaris Gray has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is considered medium-heavy, while the U4T has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is classified as medium.
Considering weight, some individuals prefer lighter switches as it allows them to type for extended periods without experiencing excessive fatigue. This is particularly beneficial for those using keyboards at work or engaging in long gaming sessions. On the other hand, some individuals prefer a heavier push feel, as it provides a more substantial typing experience. For these individuals, switches with heavier forces are more suitable.
In terms of force, the Polaris Gray provides a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, making it a slightly heavier option compared to the U4T. The U4T, on the other hand, offers a medium bottom out force of 62 grams. Therefore, if one desires a slightly lighter option, the U4T would be the preferable choice.
However, since the actuation force for both switches is unspecified, it is challenging to compare them. It is important to note that actuation force plays a crucial role in determining the sensitivity and responsiveness of a switch. Without this information, it is difficult to ascertain whether the actuation forces of these switches are similar or if one is lighter or heavier.
In conclusion, while the Polaris Gray is heavier in terms of bottom out force compared to the U4T, it is not possible to make a definitive statement regarding the actuation force. Depending on individual preferences and the desired typing experience, one may opt for the Polaris Gray if they prefer a slightly heavier switch or the U4T if they desire a lighter option.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, it is evident that both switches have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience a similar distance being travelled from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches provide a consistent and equal tactile feedback to the 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 Gazzew U4T 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
When it comes to sound, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch offers a clean and clacky profile. These switches have a low-pitched sound, resulting in a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Additionally, the Polaris Gray switch produces a satisfying "thocky" sound, resembling a deep "thud" or a soft "knock" when the key is pressed and released. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch embodies a harmonious fusion of thockiness and sharp tactility. The U4T switch has a bassy "thock" sound profile, creating a deeper and richer tone during key presses. It also offers an assertive tactile feedback, providing both auditory and tactile satisfaction with every keystroke. Overall, both switches have a thocky sound profile, but the Polaris Gray leans more towards a low-pitched and clacky sound, while the U4T produces a bassy thock.
Regarding feel, the Polaris Gray linear switch offers a mild and approachable typing experience. It falls in the safe, middle-ground zone of mechanical keyboard switches, providing a more gentle feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Additionally, the Polaris Gray switch is described as polished, resulting in a smooth and refined finish. This leads to reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch is known for its sharp tactile feedback. It offers a high feedback intensity with a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be distinctly felt with every keypress. While the Polaris Gray focuses on a mild and polished feel, the U4T emphasizes a sharp tactile response.
In summary, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch offer distinct differences in both sound and feel. The Polaris Gray offers a low-pitched and clacky sound profile, with a mild and polished feel. On the other hand, the U4T provides a bassy thock sound and a sharp tactile feel. Both switches aim to satisfy auditory and tactile preferences, but the choice between them ultimately depends on individual preferences for sound profile and feedback intensity. To achieve similar results, one can opt for the Polaris Gray if they prefer a bouncy and clean sound with a mild and polished feel, while the U4T is suitable for those seeking a harmoniously thocky sound profile paired with an assertive tactile experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you are someone who values a bouncy typing experience and enjoys a clean and clacky sound profile, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. With a bottom out force of 67 grams, these switches offer a medium-heavy typing feel that may suit those who prefer a bit more resistance. Furthermore, the Polaris Gray switches have a low-pitched and thocky sound profile, providing deep and satisfying auditory feedback.
On the other hand, if you're seeking a switch that combines thockiness with sharp tactility, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch would be a fantastic option. With a bottom out force of 62 grams, these switches offer a medium typing feel that can be appreciated by most users. The U4T switches are known for their bassy 'thock' sound profile, which is characterized by a lower frequency range and provides a deep and rich auditory experience. Additionally, the U4T switches have a sharp tactile bump that offers distinct and intense feedback with each keypress.
In summary, the Polaris Gray switches are a great choice for those who prefer a bouncy typing experience with a clean and clacky sound, while the Gazzew U4T switches excel in providing a harmonious combination of thockiness and sharp tactility. Your decision should be based on your personal preferences regarding typing feel and sound profile. Whether you prioritize a medium-heavy linear switch with a low-pitched sound or a medium tactile switch with a bassy 'thock' sound, both the Polaris Gray and U4T switches offer unique and satisfying experiences.
Mentioned in this article
