Dareu Holly vs. SP-Star Polaris Gray
An in-depth look at the Dareu Holly and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Dareu Holly and the SP-Star Polaris Gray. The Dareu Holly switch is a tactile switch with a medium 50g actuation force, known for its unique sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements, providing a balanced and distinctive typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray switch is a linear switch loved for its bouncy typing experience and clean, clacky sound profile. While the Holly switch offers a chirpy and clacky typing experience, the Polaris Gray switch provides a more polished and thocky feel. Both switches have their own distinct qualities that cater 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
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
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
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Dareu Holly and the SP-Star Polaris Gray both feature polycarbonate top housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiff plastic that creates a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. However, the Holly differs from the Polaris Gray in its choice of housing material for the bottom housing. The Holly uses nylon for its bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Polaris Gray's polycarbonate bottom housing.
Despite both switches having polycarbonate top housings that create similar sound profiles, the differences lie in their bottom housings. The nylon bottom housing of the Dareu Holly absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound profile, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the SP-Star Polaris Gray maintains a sharper and crisper sound. This contrast in bottom housing materials contributes to the overall typing experience and sound feedback of each switch. Additionally, the split between the qualities of the top and bottom housings means that the bottom-out sound and feel will be influenced by the bottom housing, while the sound upon key release will be affected by the top housing.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Dareu Holly and the SP-Star Polaris Gray plays a significant role in shaping the sound profile and typing experience of these switches. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for sharp and crisp sound, the difference in bottom housing materials results in varying sound profiles. The nylon bottom housing of the Holly provides a deeper and fuller sound, whereas the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Polaris Gray maintains a sharper and more resonant sound. Understanding the impact of housing materials on sound can help users make informed decisions when selecting a switch that best suits their preferences.
Weight
The Dareu Holly tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, which has an unspecified actuation force. However, the Polaris Gray switch has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, while the Holly switch's bottom out force is unknown. When comparing the two switches, those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Holly switch for a more effortless typing experience, while those who prefer a more substantial feel may opt for the Polaris Gray switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel from the top to the bottom. As a result, the typing experience and feedback provided by both switches will be similar, offering consistent performance in terms of keypress feel and travel distance. In conclusion, whether you choose the Holly or Polaris Gray switch, you can expect a standard 4 mm travel distance that will meet your typing needs.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Holly has an MSRP of $6.59 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Holly for $3.76.
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.
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
In terms of sound, the Dareu Holly tactile switch is known for its unique combination of chirpy and clacky elements, providing a balanced and distinctive typing experience. The sound produced by these switches is sharp, snappy, and percussive, creating a signature acoustic profile that sets them apart from other switches. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch offers a clean and clacky sound profile, with a more mellow and bass-heavy tone compared to higher-pitched switches. The sound of the Polaris Gray switches can be described as satisfying and thocky, producing a deep and rich sound when pressed. Ultimately, the sound of a switch also depends on factors such as the keyboard layout and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, information on the Dareu Holly tactile switch is not provided. In contrast, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch is described as providing a mild and gentle typing experience, making it approachable to most users. These switches are polished, offering a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. This makes the Polaris Gray switches a popular choice for those seeking a comfortable and polished typing feel.
Overall, the Dareu Holly tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. The Holly switch presents a unique combination of chirpy and clacky sound elements, while the Polaris Gray switch provides a clean and thocky sound profile with a bouncy typing experience. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, either of these switches can provide a satisfying typing experience for users looking for a tactile or linear switch option.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a balanced and distinctive typing experience with a unique sound signature that combines chirpy and clacky elements, then the Dareu Holly tactile switch with its medium 50g actuation force would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy typing experience with clean and clacky sound profile, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch with its medium-heavy 67g bottom out force would suit your preferences better. Ultimately, your decision should be based on the specific typing experience you are looking for, whether it be a chirpy and clacky feel or a bouncy and clean one. Both switches have their own strengths, so choose wisely based on your personal preferences.
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