SP-Star Polaris Gray vs. Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile. The Polaris Gray is well-loved by those seeking a bouncy typing experience, with clean and clacky sound profiles. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switches offer a remarkable tactile bump and a satisfying resistance of 70g, delivering an engaging and immersive typing journey. Additionally, the Wuque Heavy Tactile switches provide a captivating sound profile with its "thocky" resonance. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision based on your preferences.

By the numbers

SP-Star Polaris Gray Linear

Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile Tactile

$5.60

$5.00 per 10

$3.50 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials of the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile differ in terms of their composition and the resulting sound profiles. The Polaris Gray features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which allows for more clear and resonant sound production. In terms of aesthetics, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it an ideal choice for switches that utilize RGB lighting. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile houses its switches with nylon top housing. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its relatively softer and sound-absorbing properties. Thus, pressing down on the WS Heavy Tactile will elicit a duller and rounder sound compared to the Polaris Gray.

In terms of the bottom housing materials, both the Polaris Gray and WS Heavy Tactile differ once again. The Polaris Gray utilizes polycarbonate, leading to a similar sound profile as the top housing. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when bottoming out on a key. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate is advantageous for users planning to incorporate RGB lighting into their setup. On the contrary, the WS Heavy Tactile features a nylon bottom housing. As a classic switch housing material, nylon produces a deeper and fuller sound profile while absorbing more sound due to its softer composition. Consequently, the bottom-out sound and feel of pressing keys on the WS Heavy Tactile will have a different impact, offering a distinct experience compared to the Polaris Gray.

While the housing materials of the Polaris Gray and WS Heavy Tactile differ both in the top and bottom housing, the resulting sound profiles are notable contrasting points. The polycarbonate housing of the Polaris Gray creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when both pressing down and releasing a key. In contrast, the nylon housing of the WS Heavy Tactile elicits a deeper and fuller sound, providing a duller and rounder experience. These differences in sound profile and feel can be attributed to the varying stiffness and sound absorption capabilities of polycarbonate and nylon. Therefore, users deciding between the two switches should consider the type of sound and feel they prefer during typing, with the Polaris Gray offering a more sharp and resonant experience, while the WS Heavy Tactile delivers a deeper and more mellow experience.

Weight

When comparing the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The actuation force of the Polaris Gray is not available, making it difficult to directly compare with the WS Heavy Tactile. However, the bottom out force of the Polaris Gray is 67 grams, which is considered medium-heavy. In contrast, the WS Heavy Tactile has a bottom out force of 45 grams, which is comparatively lighter.

Considering weight, some individuals may prefer a lighter switch like the WS Heavy Tactile. Lighter switches allow for longer typing sessions and are ideal for those who bring their keyboard to work or engage in extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, others may desire a stronger push feel to enhance the typing experience, in which case the Polaris Gray's medium-heavy bottom out force may be more suitable.

While the actuation force of both switches is unknown, it is important to note that the Polaris Gray is heavier in terms of its bottom out force compared to the WS Heavy Tactile. This indicates that the typing experience on the Polaris Gray may require slightly more force, providing a more substantial feel. Conversely, the WS Heavy Tactile offers a lighter typing experience, which may be preferred for those who prioritize longer typing sessions or less strain on their fingers.

In conclusion, although specific information about the actuation force is unavailable for both switches, the Polaris Gray is heavier in terms of bottom out force compared to the WS Heavy Tactile. This contrast in force allows individuals to choose a switch based on their preference for a lighter or more substantial typing experience.

Travel distance

The travel distance of a switch is an important factor to consider when choosing a keyboard. In the case of the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, there is a notable difference in their travel distances. The Polaris Gray has a travel distance of 4.0 mm, which is considered a more traditional distance. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile offers a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. This shorter distance is often preferred by gamers who prioritize faster response times. The shorter travel distance allows for quicker keystrokes, resulting in increased reaction speed during gaming sessions. However, it is important to note that some individuals may find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt or lacking in depth. For those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing, the Polaris Gray with its longer travel distance may be a better option. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on individual preferences and the intended use of the keyboard.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch is known for a clean and clacky profile. These switches produce a low-pitched sound, which means they have a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. They also have a thocky resonance, creating a deep and satisfying sound that can be described as a soft "knock" when the key is pressed and released. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch offers a different auditory experience. These switches have a clacky sound profile, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. They have a higher-pitched sound profile, resulting in a clean and sharp resonance. Both switches provide distinct and engaging sound profiles, but in different ways.

In terms of feel, the Polaris Gray linear switch offers a mild and polished typing experience. These switches provide a gentle and approachable feel, making them suitable for most users. They also have a refined finish, resulting in smooth key travel and reduced friction. The Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch, on the other hand, offers a more dynamic and invigorating typing experience. These switches have an accented tactility, providing a prominent amount of feedback without being overwhelming. They are also described as bouncy and snappy, offering a spring-like and lively feel with each keypress. The WS Heavy Tactile switch is known for its sharp and crisp tactile bump, creating a distinct and reactive typing sensation.

In conclusion, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Polaris Gray switch provides a clean and clacky sound profile, with a low-pitched and thocky resonance. It offers a mild and polished typing experience, with a gentle and refined feel. On the other hand, the WS Heavy Tactile switch offers a sharp and clacky sound profile, with a high-pitched and resonant resonance. It provides an invigorating and bouncy typing experience, with a prominent tactile bump and snappy feedback. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. However, if you prefer a bouncy typing experience with a deep and satisfying sound, you can achieve similar results with the Polaris Gray switch. Similarly, if you prefer a pronounced tactile bump and a clean, sharp sound profile, the WS Heavy Tactile switch would be a suitable choice. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the specific preferences and requirements of the user.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you prefer a bouncy typing experience with a clean and clacky sound profile, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch would be a great choice for you. With a bottom out force of 67 grams, these switches offer a medium-heavy typing feel. They have a low-pitched and thocky sound profile, producing a deep and satisfying sound when pressed.

On the other hand, if you want a more pronounced tactile experience with a captivating sound profile, the Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile tactile switch is the way to go. With a bottom out force of 45 grams, these switches provide a lighter typing feel. They are described as clacky and resonant, producing a sharp and immersive sound when pressed.

Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing experience and sound. If you enjoy a bouncy feel and a deep sound, go for the Polaris Gray linear switch. If you prefer a pronounced tactile feedback and a sharp sound, the WS Heavy Tactile switch is the better option for you.

Mentioned in this article

SP-Star Polaris Gray Linear

$5.60

$5.00 per 10

Learn more

Wuque Studio WS Heavy Tactile Tactile

$3.50 per 10

Learn more