SP-Star Polaris Gray vs. Wuque Studio WS Jade
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Wuque Studio WS Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Wuque Studio WS Jade stand out as top contenders. The Polaris Gray is favored by those who enjoy a bouncy typing experience and a clean, clacky sound profile, while the WS Jade offers a unique metallic insert in its stem base for a bright and resonant sound, along with a mesmerizing RGB display. Both switches have their own distinct characteristics and appeal 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
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
UPE
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
18mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Wuque Studio WS Jade, it is clear that both switches have unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Polaris Gray's polycarbonate top housing offers a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that resonates clearly, especially when paired with RGB lighting. In contrast, the WS Jade's POM top housing creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, providing a distinct auditory experience. While both materials have their own strengths, it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound aesthetics.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Polaris Gray's polycarbonate bottom housing mirrors the qualities of its top housing, creating a consistent sound profile throughout the switch. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound that complements the top housing's characteristics. On the other hand, the WS Jade's POM bottom housing introduces a unique sound that leans towards the deeper end of the spectrum. This creates a contrast with the top housing's sound profile, offering a balanced combination of tones for a satisfying typing experience.
Overall, the choice between the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Wuque Studio WS Jade ultimately comes down to individual preference in sound profile. While the Polaris Gray utilizes polycarbonate for both top and bottom housings, resulting in a consistent and sharp sound, the WS Jade splits the qualities between its POM top and bottom housings, creating a more varied auditory experience. Both switches have their merits and appeal to different users based on their desired sound aesthetics. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound or a deeper, more muted tone, both options offer a unique typing experience that can cater to a variety of preferences.
Weight
The SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Polaris Gray has an actuation force of None grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy. In contrast, the WS Jade has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, placing it in the medium category. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the WS Jade would be the better option due to its lighter actuation force. However, if a more substantial typing feel is desired, the Polaris Gray with its heavier bottom out force may be the preferred choice. Ultimately, both switches offer a different typing experience based on their actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences for typing comfort and feedback.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch is 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Polaris Gray has a slightly longer travel distance, making it better suited for those who prefer a deeper key press feeling. On the other hand, the WS Jade has a shorter travel distance, which can be preferred by gamers looking for quicker response times. Both switches offer a different experience due to their travel distances, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of key press depth.
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 Wuque Studio WS Jade comes in at $4.30 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 low-pitched, neutral, and thocky sound profile, providing a satisfying bass-heavy tone with a moderate actuation force requirement. In comparison, the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch delivers a clacky, marbly, and resonant sound, featuring a sharp and snappy sound that is bright and percussive. Depending on your preference, the Polaris Gray will give you a cleaner and clacky sound, while the WS Jade will offer a more resonant and metallic sound with a touch of brightness.
Moving on to feel, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch is described as mild and polished, providing a gentle and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch offers a silky and creamy feel, ensuring an exceptionally smooth and buttery typing experience with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. If you prefer a more polished and refined typing feel, the Polaris Gray is the way to go, while the WS Jade will offer an ultra-smooth and effortless typing sensation.
In conclusion, if you are looking for a linear switch with a bouncy typing experience and a clean, clacky sound, the SP-Star Polaris Gray is a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a unique metallic and resonant sound profile, as well as a creamy and smooth typing experience, the Wuque Studio WS Jade is the ideal option. Both switches offer high-quality performance, but the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound and feel. Ultimately, you can expect similar results in terms of overall quality and performance from both switches, with slight variations in sound and feel based on the unique characteristics of each.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a bouncy and clacky typing experience with a clean sound profile, the Polaris Gray may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a creamy and smooth typing feel with a bright metallic and resonant sound profile, the WS Jade could be the switch for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preferences in terms of sound and feel. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences for an optimal typing experience.
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