SP-Star Polaris Gray vs. KTT Wine Red
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the KTT Wine Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The SP-Star Polaris Gray and the KTT Wine Red are both linear mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique typing experiences. The Polaris Gray is characterized by its bouncy typing experience and clean, clacky sound profile. This switch is ideal for those who prefer a low-pitched, neutral, and mild feel while typing. On the other hand, the Wine Red provides a pillowy light type feel and a deep, rich sound profile, making it a popular choice for those seeking a bassy and low-pitched experience. Both switches have their own distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. 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
44g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the KTT Wine Red share many similarities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top and bottom housings, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, both switches feature clear housings, indicating the use of polycarbonate. This translucency is particularly beneficial if RGB lighting is intended to be used.
However, while the materials used in both switches are the same, the difference lies in their aesthetics. The Polaris Gray is characterized by its gray appearance, providing a sleek and modern look. In contrast, the KTT Wine Red showcases a vibrant red color, adding a touch of elegance and boldness. These aesthetic differences can be a significant factor for individuals who prioritize the visual appeal of their keyboard.
Furthermore, the way the top and bottom housings interact with the switch operation is worth noting. The bottom housing of a switch has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed. Conversely, the top housing plays a more crucial role in the sound produced when the key is released. Understanding this distinction is essential for those who desire specific auditory feedback while typing.
In summary, the use of polycarbonate in both the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the KTT Wine Red contributes to their similar sound profiles and utilization of RGB lighting. However, the switches differ in terms of their aesthetic appeal and the specific impact of the top and bottom housings on typing experience. Whether one prefers the modern gray tone of the Polaris Gray or the bold red hue of the Wine Red, both switches offer durability and excellent sound quality in their respective designs.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch, several differences become apparent. Firstly, the SP-Star Polaris Gray has an unknown actuation force, while the KTT Wine Red has an actuation force of 44 grams. This means that the KTT Wine Red requires a lighter force to register a keystroke, potentially providing a smoother and faster typing experience. Additionally, the Polaris Gray has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is considered medium-heavy, while the Wine Red has a bottom out force of 55 grams, which is medium-light. This indicates that the Polaris Gray offers a more substantial and resistant typing feel, which may be preferred by individuals seeking a tactile and precise typing experience. Overall, if weight is a concern, the KTT Wine Red would be a better choice as it requires a lighter actuation force and bottom out force, allowing for prolonged typing sessions. However, those who prefer a stronger push feel may prefer the Polaris Gray for a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that they both travel a distance of 4 mm from the top to the bottom when pressed. Therefore, you can expect similar results when using either switch in terms of the distance and feel when pressing down on a key.
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 KTT Wine Red comes in at $2.71 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, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch is known for its low-pitched, neutral, and thocky sound profile. These switches produce a deep and mellow tone with a satisfyingly rich sound when pressed. On the other hand, the KTT Wine Red linear switch is described as bassy and low-pitched, offering a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses. Both switches have a similar low-pitched characteristic, which provides a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. However, the Polaris Gray has the additional quality of being thocky, giving it a deep and satisfying sound. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Polaris Gray switch is described as mild and polished. Its mild characteristic indicates a more gentle typing experience, making it approachable to most users. The switch offers a safe middle-ground zone, providing a typing feel that is not overly pronounced. Additionally, the switch has a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. This smoothness and reduced friction contribute to smooth key travel when typing. On the other hand, there is no specific information available about the feel of the KTT Wine Red switch.
In conclusion, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the KTT Wine Red linear switch have distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Polaris Gray offers a clean and clacky sound profile with a thocky characteristic, providing a deep and satisfying sound. Its feel is described as mild and polished, offering a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the specific sound and feel characteristics of the KTT Wine Red switch are unknown. If you prefer a low-pitched switch with a bass-heavy and mellow sound, both switches can provide similar results in terms of sound. However, it is important to consider other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, as they can also impact the sound and feel of the switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a bouncy typing experience and a clean, clacky sound profile, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch would be a great choice for you. With a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, these switches provide a satisfying feedback and a neutral sound profile characterized by a low-pitched and thocky sound.
On the other hand, if you enjoy a pillowy light typing feel and a deep, rich sound profile, the KTT Wine Red linear switch would be the ideal option. With a medium-light bottom out force of 55 grams, these switches offer a more gentle typing experience and a bassy sound profile, featuring low-pitched tones.
Ultimately, the decision between the Polaris Gray and Wine Red switches depends on your personal preferences for typing experience and sound. Consider whether you prefer a bouncy or pillowy feel, as well as a clean and clacky sound or a deep and rich sound. By understanding these differences, you can choose the switch that best suits your needs and preferences for an enjoyable mechanical keyboard experience.
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