SP-Star Polaris Gray vs. Wuque Studio WS Yellow
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are various options available to suit different preferences and typing styles. Two popular choices that we will be comparing and contrasting are the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow, both of which are linear switches. The Polaris Gray switches are perfect for those who prefer a bouncy typing experience. They offer a clean and clacky sound profile, making them ideal for users who enjoy a bit of auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the WS Yellow switches are a fusion of classic materials and cutting-edge engineering. With a 22mm double-stage spring, they provide a delightful typing experience with a satisfying bounce. Additionally, these switches have a familiar sound signature that enthusiasts adore. Crafted to be lightweight, they provide effortless keystrokes, resulting in a smooth and fluid typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision about the best switch for your specific needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The SP-Star Polaris Gray features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. It is a stiffer plastic, allowing for a clear and resonant sound. The polycarbonate material also lends itself well to RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. While both materials have their own unique qualities, the polycarbonate top housing of the Polaris Gray provides a sharper and more resonant sound, while the nylon top housing of the WS Yellow offers a deeper and fuller sound.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Polaris Gray and the WS Yellow differ in terms of material. The Polaris Gray features a polycarbonate bottom housing, similar to its top housing. This creates a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile when bottoming out a key. The polycarbonate material's stiffness further enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound. On the other hand, the WS Yellow incorporates a nylon bottom housing. This classic switch housing material elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile upon pressing a key. As a softer plastic, nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a softer and rounder sound when bottoming out.
When it comes to the overall impact on the sound and feel of the switch, the qualities of each housing material are split between the top and bottom. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, meaning the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Polaris Gray will provide a sharper and crisper experience, while the nylon bottom housing of the WS Yellow will offer a deeper and fuller sensation. On the other hand, the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Thus, the polycarbonate top housing of the Polaris Gray will achieve a clearer and more resonant sound upon key release, whereas the nylon top housing of the WS Yellow will create a duller sound.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, there are noticeable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Polaris Gray switch has an actuation force of unavailable grams, while the WS Yellow switch also has an unknown actuation force. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Polaris Gray requires 67 grams, which can be considered medium-heavy, while the WS Yellow requires 53 grams, which is classified as medium-light.
Considering weight as a factor, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the WS Yellow switch as it has a lower bottom out force. This lighter feel allows for prolonged typing sessions, making it suitable for work or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a more substantial keystroke and enjoy a stronger push feel may find the Polaris Gray switch more appealing. With its higher bottom out force, it provides a more tactile typing experience.
It is important to note that the exact actuation force for both switches is unknown, which limits the direct comparison in this aspect. However, based on the provided information, it can be inferred that the actuation force may be similar or comparable between the two switches. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing experience and the desired force required for keystrokes.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch is 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. In terms of traditional standards, a travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered the norm, while 3.8 mm falls on the shallower end of the spectrum. Shorter travel distances have become increasingly popular, particularly among gamers who prioritize faster response times. For those who value responsiveness, the WS Yellow switch with its shorter travel distance may be the preferred choice. However, some individuals may find shorter travel distances to be too abrupt and prefer a switch with more depth. In this case, the Polaris Gray switch with its longer travel distance would be the better option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for either a shorter or longer travel distance.
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 Yellow comes in at $3.50 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 SP-Star Polaris Gray switch is known for its low-pitched and thocky sound. With a bass-heavy and mellow tone, these switches produce a deep and satisfying sound when pressed. On the other hand, the subjective qualities of the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switch in terms of sound remain unknown. However, it is important to note that the sound produced by a switch is not solely determined by its construction, but also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Therefore, while we have information on the sound of the Polaris Gray switch, it is difficult to directly compare it to the WS Yellow switch in this regard.
Moving on to feel, both the Polaris Gray and WS Yellow switches offer a mild typing experience. A mild switch provides a gentle and approachable feel, making it suitable for most users. Additionally, both switches are described as polished, meaning they have a smooth and refined finish that ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel. This results in a sleek typing experience that is comfortable and effortless. It is worth noting that the WS Yellow switch is also described as creamy, indicating that it provides a smooth and buttery typing sensation. This could be due to factory lubrication or specific materials used, allowing for a silky glide across the keys. Overall, both switches offer a pleasant typing feel with their mild and polished characteristics.
Taking into account the available information, the SP-Star Polaris Gray switch is best known for its bouncy typing experience and clean, clacky sound. It provides a low-pitched and thocky sound profile, creating a deep and satisfying tone during keystrokes. The switch also offers a mild and polished feel, ensuring a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, specific details regarding the subjective qualities of the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switch in terms of sound are unknown. However, based on the information provided, the WS Yellow switch shares similarities with the Polaris Gray switch in terms of feel. Both switches offer a mild and polished typing experience, emphasizing comfort and effortless keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you value a bouncy typing experience and clean, clacky sound, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch is the ideal choice for you. These switches have a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a satisfying tactile response with each keystroke. Additionally, the Polaris Gray switches have a low-pitched and thocky sound profile, creating a deep and rich typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a lightweight and smooth typing experience, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch is the perfect fit. With a bottom out force of 53 grams, these switches offer effortless keystrokes and a delightful bounce. The WS Yellow switches are described as creamy, giving you a silky sensation as you glide your fingers across the keys. Furthermore, they have a mild and polished feel, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow switches boils down to your preferences in terms of typing experience and sound. Whether you prioritize a bouncy and clacky feel or a lightweight and creamy touch, these switches cater to different typing styles. Consider the characteristics that align with your preferences and make an informed decision based on that. In the end, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.
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