SP-Star Polaris Gray vs. Gazzew U4Tx
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Gazzew U4Tx switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Are you in search of the perfect mechanical keyboard switch that will enhance your typing experience? Look no further than the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Gazzew U4Tx switches. The Polaris Gray is a linear switch that offers a bouncy typing experience with a clean and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Tx is a tactile switch that combines the deep, resonant "thock" of the U4T when bottoming out with the whisper-quiet stealth of the U4 when topping out. This results in a sharp, satisfying tactile bump and a refined sound profile. Both switches have their unique qualities and benefits, making it difficult to choose between them. 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
62.5g
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
Partial box
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 Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Gazzew U4Tx keyboards offer distinct differences in sound profiles. The Polaris Gray utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings. The stiffness of polycarbonate gives the switch a sharper and crisper sound profile, resulting in a higher-pitched tone. This material is especially effective in the top housing, where it enhances the resonant and clear sound when keys are released. Furthermore, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting, adding an aesthetically pleasing element to the keyboard.
In contrast, the Gazzew U4Tx employs a proprietary Gazzew blend for both the top and bottom housings. This unique plastic blend, often referred to as "boba plastic," offers a softer texture and creates a rich and deep sound profile. The softness of the material contributes to a more satisfying bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the keys. The U4Tx's Gazzew blend top housing ensures that the key release sound maintains its desirable depth and resonance.
Despite their differences, both switches deliver impressive acoustic experiences. While the Polaris Gray's polycarbonate housing produces a sharper and crisper sound, the Gazzew U4Tx's proprietary blend offers a rich and deep tone. Whether you prefer the high-pitched clarity of the Polaris Gray or the deep resonance of the U4Tx, both switches deliver satisfying sound profiles for enthusiastic mechanical keyboard users.
In summary, the choice between the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Gazzew U4Tx housing materials ultimately comes down to personal preference. The polycarbonate housing of the Polaris Gray provides a sharper and crisper sound, ideal for those seeking a higher-pitched tone. Conversely, the proprietary Gazzew blend used in the U4Tx offers a softer texture and a rich, deep sound profile, catering to those who prefer a more satisfying bottom-out experience. Regardless of the chosen switch, both options ensure a delightful acoustic journey for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch, both switches have an unavailable actuation force. This means that the force required to trigger a keystroke is unknown for both switches. However, the Polaris Gray has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which can be considered medium-heavy, while the U4Tx has a slightly lower bottom out force of 65 grams, also classified as medium-heavy.
Considering weight, the lighter option is typically favored by individuals who value longer typing sessions, making it suitable for work keyboards or extended gaming sessions. In this case, since both switches have an unknown actuation force, it is difficult to determine which one is lighter. However, based on the bottom out force comparison, it can be assumed that the U4Tx may be slightly lighter due to its 65-gram bottom out force, compared to the Polaris Gray's 67-gram bottom out force.
On the other hand, for those who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience, options with heavier forces are more appropriate. Both the Polaris Gray and U4Tx fall into the medium-heavy range, making them suitable for individuals seeking a satisfying keystroke that requires a bit more force to bottom out.
In summary, while the actuation force is unavailable for both switches, the Polaris Gray has a slightly higher bottom out force of 67 grams compared to the U4Tx's 65 grams. This suggests that the Polaris Gray may provide a slightly heavier typing experience. However, since both switches fall into the medium-heavy range, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience can expect similar results from either option.
Travel distance
The SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches provide a noticeable distance when pressed, allowing users to feel the keystroke. The Polaris Gray's 4.0 mm travel distance is more in line with traditional switch distances, while the U4Tx's 3.6 mm is on the shallower side. Shorter travel distances, such as the U4Tx, are often preferred by gamers who prioritize faster response times. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt and prefer the gentle depth provided by the Polaris Gray's longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
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 U4Tx 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 Polaris Gray is known for having a low-pitched sound profile that is clean and clacky. This means that the switches produce a bass-heavy and mellow tone when pressed, resulting in a satisfying "thock" or a soft "knock" sound. On the other hand, the U4Tx switches offer a deeper and richer sound profile. They have a lower frequency range resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. The sound of the U4Tx switches is described as muted, meaning it is softer and quieter compared to regular or clacky switches. Both switches provide unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. If you prefer a sharper and more pronounced sound, the U4Tx switches would be the better choice, while the Polaris Gray switches offer a more neutral and bouncy typing experience.
In terms of feel, the Polaris Gray switches are described as mild, providing a gentle typing experience. They fall in a safe, middle-ground zone, making them approachable for most users. Additionally, the Polaris Gray switches are polished, resulting in a smooth and refined finish. This means that the switches have reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the U4Tx switches are known for their sharp tactile bump. This means that each keypress will have a distinct and intense feedback. The tactile bump of the U4Tx switches ensures a luxurious typing experience that is both acoustically pleasing and tactile. Overall, the Polaris Gray switches offer a mellower and more refined typing experience, while the U4Tx switches provide a sharper and more pronounced tactile feedback.
Taking into account all the available information, it is clear that both the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switches and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switches have their own unique qualities. The Polaris Gray switches excel in providing a bouncy and polished typing experience, with a clean and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the U4Tx switches offer a refined sound profile with a deep, resonant "thock" when bottoming out and a whisper-quiet topping out sound. With the U4Tx switches, you can expect a sharp and satisfying tactile bump, ensuring a luxurious typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel. However, it is worth noting that despite their differences, both switches aim to provide an enjoyable and high-quality typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are someone who prefers a bouncy typing experience and enjoys a clean and clacky sound profile, then 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 and offer a low-pitched, neutral sound with a thocky characteristic. With a mild and polished feel, the Polaris Gray switches provide a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you're looking for a switch that combines the best of both worlds, offering a refined sound profile and a satisfying tactile bump, the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch is the way to go. With a medium-heavy bottom out force of 65 grams, these switches produce a deep and rich bassy sound. They are described as muted, providing a softer and quieter typing experience. The U4Tx switches have a sharp tactile bump that is felt distinctly with each keypress, giving you a luxurious and acoustically pleasing typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the Gazzew U4Tx tactile switch depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize a bouncy typing experience with a clean and clacky sound, go for the Polaris Gray. If you value a refined sound profile with a satisfying tactile bump, opt for the U4Tx. Both switches offer their own unique qualities, ensuring an enjoyable typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
