SP-Star Polaris Gray vs. SP-Star Yanyu
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the SP-Star Yanyu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the SP-Star Yanyu. The Polaris Gray is well-loved by individuals seeking a bouncy typing experience, thanks to its clean and clacky sound profile. Categorized as low-pitched, neutral, mild, thocky, and polished, these switches provide a unique tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Yanyu switches are perfect for those who prefer a more delicate typing experience or often find themselves typing for long periods of time. With a material blend that enhances its crisp sound profile, the Yanyu switches offer a pleasant typing experience. Classified as neutral, mild, thocky, feathery, subtle, and polished, they deliver a smooth and refined feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision regarding the best switch for your individual preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
43g
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
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polymer nylon and UHMWPE blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the SP-Star Yanyu differ significantly. The Polaris Gray features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Moreover, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for using RGB lighting. In contrast, the Yanyu utilizes a blend of polymer nylon and UHMWPE for its top housing, resulting in a unique sound profile that is bright but not particularly sharp.
Similarly, the bottom housings of the Polaris Gray and the Yanyu differ in material composition. The Polaris Gray boasts a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to its sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound. On the other hand, the Yanyu's bottom housing is made from a blend of polymer nylon and UHMWPE. This unique blend provides a pleasant sound profile that is not particularly sharp but leans towards the brighter side.
Due to the differences in top and bottom housing materials, the qualities they bring to each switch are split. When pressing down on either the Polaris Gray or the Yanyu, the bottom housing material's qualities will be felt, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. Meanwhile, the top housing's material will have a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key. Overall, while the SP-Star Polaris Gray and SP-Star Yanyu may have similar features in terms of housing versatility and creating a pleasant sound profile, their distinct housing materials contribute to a noticeable difference in sound characteristics and overall keyboard experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch, we encounter some notable differences. The Polaris Gray switch has an actuation force of unavailable grams, while the Yanyu switch has an actuation force that is also unavailable. In terms of bottom out force, the Polaris Gray requires 67 grams of force, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Yanyu switch has a lighter bottom out force of 43 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Yanyu switch would be the ideal choice. Its lower bottom out force allows for less resistance, making it easier to type for longer periods of time without feeling fatigued. This would be particularly beneficial for individuals who use their keyboards extensively for work or engage in prolonged gaming sessions.
However, for those who prefer a more substantial and tactile typing experience, the Polaris Gray switch would be more suitable. With its higher bottom out force, users can expect a stronger push feel that provides a sense of feedback and increased satisfaction while typing.
Overall, it is evident that weight plays a significant role in keyboard preferences. While some may prioritize a lighter switch to enhance endurance, others may prefer the heavier, more substantial feel that a higher force can provide. It is crucial to consider these factors when selecting a switch to ensure optimal comfort and performance during typing sessions.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch is the distance it travels from the top to the bottom when pressed down on. In the case of the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, it has a travel distance of 4 mm. Similarly, the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch also has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches provide the same experience in terms of the distance you feel when pressing down on a key. Therefore, users can expect similar results when using either of these switches.
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 SP-Star Yanyu has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Yanyu for $5.40.
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, both the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the SP-Star Yanyu switches have a neutral sound profile. This means that they offer a moderate sound that is suitable for most situations, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you are using them at home or at work. Additionally, both switches are described as having a thocky sound, which means they will produce a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard you are using and the keycaps. Therefore, while the Polaris Gray and Yanyu switches have similar sound characteristics, the specific sound you achieve may vary depending on these other factors.
In terms of feel, both the Polaris Gray and Yanyu switches offer a mild typing experience. This means that they provide a gentle typing experience that is approachable for most users. Both switches are also described as having a polished finish, which results in a smooth and refined key travel experience. This is due to either the materials used or factory lubing. With both switches, you can expect reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Yanyu switch is also described as feathery, which means it is exceptionally light to press and requires little exertion from your fingers. This can reduce finger fatigue and make it comfortable for extended typing sessions. Additionally, the Yanyu switch is also described as having a subtle resistance, which provides a light typing feel. The combination of these qualities makes both switches comfortable for typing for longer periods of time.
Overall, both the SP-Star Polaris Gray and SP-Star Yanyu switches offer similar subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. They both have a neutral sound profile with a thocky sound and provide a mild typing experience with a polished finish. However, the Yanyu switch offers the additional quality of being feathery, which provides an exceptionally light typing experience. It is important to note that individual preferences may vary, so it is recommended to try out both switches if possible to determine which is the best fit for your personal preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the choice between the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the SP-Star Yanyu linear switch ultimately depends on your preferences and typing needs. If you prefer a bouncy typing experience and a clean, clacky sound profile, then the Polaris Gray switch is a great choice. It offers a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, which provides a satisfying feel.
On the other hand, if you are looking for a more delicate typing experience or if you plan on typing for long periods of time, the Yanyu switch is ideal. With a light bottom out force of 43 grams, it reduces finger fatigue and provides comfort for extended typing sessions. The Yanyu switch also has a crisp sound profile and is suitable for shared spaces due to its subtle and gentle resistance.
Both switches have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for most intents and purposes. Additionally, they both feature a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking for. Consider factors such as bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel when making your choice between the Polaris Gray and Yanyu switches.
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