SP-Star Polaris Gray vs. HMX Xinhai
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the HMX Xinhai switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The SP-Star Polaris Gray and the HMX Xinhai are both linear mechanical keyboard switches offering unique characteristics for a satisfying typing experience. The Polaris Gray is favored for its bouncy typing feel and clean, clacky sound profile, making it a great choice for those who prefer a mildly thocky sensation. On the other hand, the Xinhai switch stands out with its softer acoustics provided by the PA12 top housing and the distinctively crisp, higher-pitched resonance from the POM stem, offering a creamy typing experience. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal, catering 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
N/A
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the HMX Xinhai both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that will be used with RGB lighting. However, the Xinhai stands out with its nylon bottom housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Polaris Gray.
While both switches share the benefits of a polycarbonate top housing, the contrast between the nylon bottom housing of the Xinhai and the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Polaris Gray is significant. The softer nature of nylon in the Xinhai creates a unique typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. In contrast, the stiffer polycarbonate bottom housing of the Polaris Gray contributes to a more resonant sound, particularly when bottoming out keys. This difference in bottom housing material can have a noticeable impact on the overall typing feel and sound of each switch.
Overall, the choice between the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the HMX Xinhai will come down to personal preference in typing experience. Those who prefer a sharper and crisper sound may lean towards the Polaris Gray with its polycarbonate top and bottom housing. On the other hand, users looking for a deeper and fuller sound profile may find the nylon bottom housing of the Xinhai more appealing. Both switches offer unique qualities based on their housing materials, providing a variety of options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts to explore.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the HMX Xinhai linear switch, it is evident that there is a significant difference in both actuation force and bottom out force. The Polaris Gray has an actuation force of None grams, which means it requires no force to trigger a keystroke, while the Xinhai has an actuation force of 37 grams, making it a lighter option. In terms of bottom out force, the Polaris Gray has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams compared to the Xinhai's lighter 45 grams. The Polaris Gray provides a more substantial typing experience with its medium-heavy bottom out force, whereas the Xinhai offers a lighter touch for those who prefer a lighter feel. Overall, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference, with the Polaris Gray being the heavier option and the Xinhai the lighter option.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch is 4 mm, while the HMX Xinhai linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This means that the Xinhai has a slightly shorter travel distance compared to the Polaris Gray. The difference may not be significant, but it could impact the feel and responsiveness of the switch when typing or gaming. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Xinhai with its shorter travel distance, while individuals who enjoy a deeper key press may lean towards the Polaris Gray with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, but the slight variation in travel distance may cater to different preferences.
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 HMX Xinhai 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
In terms of sound, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch is known for its low-pitched, neutral sound profile that offers a satisfying thocky sound when pressed. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai linear switch provides a unique clacky sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive. Depending on individual preferences, the Polaris Gray may be preferred for those who enjoy a deeper, bass-heavy tone, while the Xinhai may appeal to those seeking a sharper and brighter sound experience.
When it comes to feel, the SP-Star Polaris Gray switch is described as providing a mild and polished typing experience, offering a gentle and refined feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the HMX Xinhai switch offers a bouncy and creamy typing experience, giving a spring-like feedback sensation with a smooth and buttery feel. While the Polaris Gray caters to those looking for a safe, middle-ground typing experience, the Xinhai appeals to individuals seeking a livelier and more luxurious feel with each key press.
Considering both the sound and feel aspects of the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the HMX Xinhai switches, it is evident that they offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. While the Polaris Gray provides a bouncy typing experience with a clean and clacky sound profile, the Xinhai offers a softer acoustics profile with a distinctively crisp and higher-pitched resonance. Ultimately, personal preference plays a significant role in determining which switch is the best fit for an individual's typing style and preferences. However, both switches offer high-quality performance and can deliver a satisfying typing experience depending on the user's preference.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the HMX Xinhai switches, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a clean, clacky sound profile with low-pitched and thocky characteristics, then the Polaris Gray linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force, a softer acoustics profile with a unique PA12 top housing and POM stem, and a clacky sound profile, then the HMX Xinhai linear switch would be the ideal option for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing experience, sound profile, and bottom-out force.
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