Dareu Master vs. SP-Star Polaris Gray
An in-depth look at the Dareu Master and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the Dareu Master and the SP-Star Polaris Gray. The Dareu Master features its signature linear switch, known for its medium weight, classic clacky sound, and exceptional smoothness in operation. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray offers another linear switch option preferred for its bouncy typing experience and clean, clacky sound profile. The Master switch from Dareu is categorized as 'Clacky', 'Mild', and 'Polished', while the Polaris Gray switch falls under categories such as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', and 'Polished'. Each switch caters to different preferences and typing styles. 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
45g
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
3.40 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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Dareu Master's POM housing materials create a unique and pleasing sound profile, known for its deeper and relatively muted tones. In contrast, the SP-Star Polaris Gray utilizes polycarbonate for its housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate plastic contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound, making it a popular choice for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency.
Both the Master and Polaris Gray switches feature POM bottom housings that offer similar sound profiles characterized by deep and muted tones. The use of POM in the bottom housing ensures consistency in sound quality throughout the switch. However, the difference lies in their top housings, with the Master using POM while the Polaris Gray utilizes polycarbonate. This contrast results in varying sound characteristics, with POM providing a more rounded and subdued sound compared to the sharper and crisper sound produced by polycarbonate.
Overall, the choice between the Dareu Master and SP-Star Polaris Gray ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile. While both switches offer unique qualities in their housing materials, users may prefer the deeper and muted tones of POM in the Master or the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate in the Polaris Gray. The impact of the housing material on the overall sound profile can be felt differently depending on whether it is the top or bottom housing, influencing factors such as bottom-out sound and key release sound. Ultimately, both switches provide distinct sound experiences based on their housing materials.
Weight
The Dareu Master linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, which does not specify its actuation force. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, while the bottom out force of the Master is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Dareu Master may be the better option due to its lower actuation force. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel, the SP-Star Polaris Gray with its heavier bottom out force may be more suitable. Both switches offer different typing experiences, catering to individuals with varying preferences in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Dareu Master linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, we find that the Master has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Polaris Gray has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Master switch offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which may appeal to those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switch provides a longer travel distance, which may be preferred by those who appreciate a more pronounced keypress sensation. Both options fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Polaris Gray offering a slightly longer distance compared to the Master. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for keypress feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Master has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Master for $4.76.
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
When it comes to sound, the Dareu Master linear switch is known for its clacky sound profile, providing users with a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch offers a low-pitched and neutral sound, giving a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. The Polaris Gray switch is also described as thocky, producing a deep and satisfying sound. Both switches offer unique sound qualities that cater to different preferences, with the Master leaning towards a classic clacky sound and the Polaris Gray offering a more bouncy typing experience.
In terms of feel, both switches share similarities in being described as mild and polished. This means that users can expect a gentle typing experience with smooth and refined key travel. The mild characteristics of both switches place them in a safe middle-ground zone, making them approachable to most users. The polished finish of the switches contributes to reduced friction and a sleek typing experience, enhancing the overall feel during use.
In conclusion, the Dareu Master linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch offer distinct sound and feel profiles that cater to different preferences. While the Master switch provides a classic clacky sound and a medium weight feel, the Polaris Gray switch offers a bouncy typing experience with a low-pitched and thocky sound profile. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, with both options providing smooth operation and a polished typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the Dareu Master linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, you should consider your preference for typing experience and sound profile. If you enjoy a medium weight switch with a classic clacky sound and exceptional smoothness, the Dareu Master switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy typing experience with a clean and mellow sound profile, the SP-Star Polaris Gray switch may be more to your liking. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you seek.
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