SP-Star Polaris Gray vs. Wuque Studio WS Red

Overview

The SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Wuque Studio WS Red are both linear mechanical keyboard switches that offer unique typing experiences. The Polaris Gray is best known for providing a bouncy typing experience, making it a preferred choice for those who enjoy a responsive and lively feel while typing. Additionally, the sound profile of the Polaris Gray switches is clean and clacky, which adds an enjoyable auditory element to the typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Red switches from Wuque Studio are designed with a 22mm double-stage spring, resulting in a bouncy and responsive typing experience. These switches also offer a familiar sound signature due to their classic material blend, providing a satisfying and substantial typing feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you decide on the best switch for your individual preferences.

By the numbers

SP-Star Polaris Gray Linear

Wuque Studio WS Red Linear

$5.60

$5.00 per 10

$3.50 per 10

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Housing materials

The SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Wuque Studio WS Red have different housing materials for both their top and bottom housings. The Polaris Gray features a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, while the WS Red uses nylon for both the top and bottom.

In terms of sound profile, the polycarbonate housing in the Polaris Gray creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which allows for a more clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, the nylon housing in the WS Red produces a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. So, if you prefer a sharper and more defined sound, the Polaris Gray would be a better choice, while if you prefer a deeper and fuller sound, the WS Red may be more suitable.

In terms of aesthetics, the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Polaris Gray provides translucency, making it especially useful if you plan to use RGB lighting. This allows for a visually appealing and customizable lighting effect. In contrast, the WS Red's nylon top housing does not offer this translucency. Therefore, if you prioritize RGB lighting options, the Polaris Gray would be a better option in terms of the top housing material.

Although the top and bottom housings differ between the two switches, their impact on the overall sound and feel is split. The bottom housing has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when you release a key. This means that the qualities of the different housing materials will be distributed across these aspects of the switch. So, depending on your preferred typing experience and sound preferences, you can choose a switch that offers the desired characteristics with either the Polaris Gray or the WS Red.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, it is important to note that the specific values of their actuation forces are unavailable. However, both switches have a bottom out force of 67 grams, which falls into the medium-heavy category.

Considering weight as a factor, those who prefer a lighter switch may opt for either the Polaris Gray or the WS Red. This lighter weight allows for extended typing sessions and makes them suitable for portable keyboards to be used in work or for long gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a stronger push feel, resulting in a more substantial typing experience, should choose a switch with a heavier actuation force.

Overall, while the specific actuation forces of these switches are unknown, the fact that both switches have a bottom out force of 67 grams indicates that they will provide similar results in terms of how much force is required for a keystroke. Therefore, individuals can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of force required with either the Polaris Gray or the WS Red switches.

Travel distance

The SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch have slightly different travel distances. The Polaris Gray has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the WS Red has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. The 4.0 mm travel distance of the Polaris Gray is considered to be more traditional, while the 3.8 mm travel distance of the WS Red is slightly shallower.

The choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and specific needs. Gamers, who prioritize fast response times, often prefer shorter travel distances. Therefore, if you value responsiveness and quick key presses, the WS Red with its 3.8 mm travel distance would be a suitable choice for you. On the other hand, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt, lacking in depth. If you prefer a more substantial feeling when typing or gaming, the Polaris Gray with its longer 4.0 mm travel distance would be a better option.

In summary, while the WS Red has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm compared to the Polaris Gray's 4.0 mm, both switches offer varying experiences. The preference between the two ultimately depends on whether you value speed and responsiveness or a deeper, more satisfying key press.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Polaris Gray linear switch has a low-pitched sound profile. This means that it produces a bass-heavy and mellow tone when pressed, resulting in a clean and clacky sound. On the other hand, there is no specific information available about the sound profile of the WS Red linear switch. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

Moving on to the feel, the Polaris Gray switch offers a mild typing experience. It falls in a safe and middle-ground zone, providing a gentle feel to most users. Additionally, this switch is described as polished, meaning that it has a smooth and refined finish. This results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing experience. Unfortunately, there is no information available about the feel of the WS Red switch.

Considering the available information, the Polaris Gray switch is best for those who prefer a bouncy typing experience with a clean and clacky sound. It has a low-pitched sound profile and offers a mild and polished feel. On the other hand, limited information is available about the WS Red switch regarding its sound and feel qualities. Therefore, if you are looking for similar results in terms of a bouncy typing experience, you may consider the WS Red switch as it also offers a 22mm double-stage spring for responsiveness and a familiar sound signature due to its classic material blend. However, it is important to note that the nuances of sound and feel can vary based on other factors and personal preferences.

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. These switches have a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is medium-heavy, providing a satisfying and substantial typing feel. Additionally, the Polaris Gray switches offer a low-pitched, neutral, and thocky sound, which can be quite pleasing to the ears. In terms of feel, they provide a mild and polished typing experience, making them approachable to most users. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, also with a bottom out force of 67 grams, is best known for its bouncy and responsive typing experience, while still maintaining a familiar sound signature. Although the specific sound profile of the WS Red is not mentioned, these switches are described as having a heavier actuation force, adding a touch of weight to each keystroke. Considering that the Polaris Gray offers more detailed information about sound and feel, it may be easier to make a decision based on your preferences. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique characteristics, and it is important to consider your personal typing preferences and priorities when choosing between them.

Mentioned in this article

SP-Star Polaris Gray Linear

$5.60

$5.00 per 10

Learn more

Wuque Studio WS Red Linear

$3.50 per 10

Learn more