SP-Star Polaris Gray vs. Durock White Lotus
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Durock White Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are countless options to choose from, each offering a unique typing experience. Two switches that stand out in the market are the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Durock White Lotus. The Polaris Gray is a linear switch that caters to those who prefer a bouncy typing experience, providing a clean and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the White Lotus is a tactile switch designed with the discerning typist in mind, offering a delicate tactility that strikes the perfect balance. Moreover, the White Lotus switches feature a removable light column, allowing for vibrant RGB lighting effects that can enhance your keyboard setup. While these general pointers showcase the distinct qualities of each switch, 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
N/A
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
56g
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
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Durock White Lotus differ in their composition and the resulting sound profiles. The Polaris Gray features a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, while the White Lotus utilizes a modified PC and UPE Blend top housing and a nylon bottom housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Polaris Gray creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, particularly suitable for those planning to use RGB lighting. On the other hand, the White Lotus's modified PC and UPE Blend top housing provides a unique and premium feel.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Polaris Gray continues to use polycarbonate, which maintains its characteristic stiffer plastic and clear and resonant sound profile. Meanwhile, the White Lotus employs a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. When pressing down on these switches, the qualities of the bottom housing will be more noticeable in terms of the bottom-out sound and feel.
When it comes to the sound profile upon releasing a key, the impact is influenced by the top housing material. The polycarbonate top housing of the Polaris Gray contributes to a sharper and clearer sound when keys are released, while the modified PC and UPE Blend top housing of the White Lotus adds to a unique and premium sound experience.
Overall, the choice between the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Durock White Lotus will depend on personal preferences for sound profiles and the desired feel. Both switches offer distinctive characteristics based on their housing materials, with the Polaris Gray delivering a sharper and higher-pitched sound, while the White Lotus provides a deeper and fuller sound experience.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, it is clear that there are significant differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Polaris Gray has an undisclosed actuation force, making it difficult to compare directly. However, its bottom out force is 67 grams, classifying it as medium-heavy. On the other hand, the White Lotus has a lighter actuation force of 46 grams, providing a more responsive typing experience. Its bottom out force is 56 grams, which places it in the medium-light category.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the White Lotus would be the preferable choice as it requires less force to trigger a keystroke. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals who spend long periods typing or engage in extensive gaming sessions, as it reduces fatigue on the fingers. Conversely, the Polaris Gray is better suited for those who appreciate a more substantial push feel. This heavier actuation force can provide a satisfying and robust typing experience.
Although the specific actuation force for the Polaris Gray is unknown, it is likely that it falls within a similar range to other linear switches. Therefore, those looking for a similar result to the White Lotus, but with heavier force, may find the Polaris Gray to be a suitable alternative. Overall, the decision between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preference and typing needs, with weight being a key factor to consider.
Travel distance
Both the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile 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 feel the same distance of travel. Therefore, the results you'll get in terms of how the switch feels will be similar. Whether you choose the Polaris Gray or the White Lotus, you can expect a consistent and satisfying travel distance of 4mm.
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 Durock White Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the White Lotus for $4.57.
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, both the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch are described as having low-pitched sound profiles. This means that they produce a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Additionally, both switches are described as having a neutral sound profile, which means that they offer a moderate sound that suits most intents and purposes. The Polaris Gray is further described as having a thocky sound, producing 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 board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Polaris Gray linear switch is described as offering a mild typing experience. It falls in the safe middle-ground zone, providing a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Additionally, it is described as having a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. This is achieved through the use of high-quality materials and/or factory lubing, which reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus tactile switch is described as being easy-to-press, offering gentle resistance during key presses. It requires minimal force to activate, making typing effortless and comfortable. This light actuation force reduces finger fatigue during extended typing sessions and provides a low-impact typing feel. It is also described as having a mild typing experience, falling within a safe middle-ground zone. Furthermore, the White Lotus switch is said to have a subtle resistance, which maintains a light typing feel and is suitable for shared spaces.
Overall, both switches offer favorable qualities in terms of sound and feel. They both have low-pitched sound profiles and neutral characteristics, making them suitable for a variety of purposes. The Polaris Gray linear switch provides a bouncy typing experience with a thocky sound and a polished feel, while the Durock White Lotus tactile switch offers an easy-to-press feel, gentle resistance, and a subtle typing experience. Depending on personal preferences and intended use, both switches can deliver satisfying results.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a bouncy and clean typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch is the right choice for you. These switches have a low-pitched and thocky sound profile, adding depth and satisfaction to your typing sessions. With their mild and polished feel, you can expect a smooth and refined typing experience. On the other hand, if you value a delicate tactility with a medium-light bottom out force, the Durock White Lotus tactile switch is the perfect option. These switches offer a balanced and gentle typing feel, making them ideal for work and extended typing sessions without causing fatigue. Additionally, their easy-to-press and subtle characteristics make them suitable for shared spaces. Both switches have low-pitched and neutral sound profiles, ensuring a bass-heavy and mellow tone. Ultimately, the choice between the SP-Star Polaris Gray and Durock White Lotus will depend on your preferences for typing experience, bottom out force, and sound profile.
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