Gateron Aliaz vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that often come to mind are the Gateron Aliaz, a tactile switch, and the SP-Star Polaris Purple, also a tactile switch. The Gateron Aliaz switches are ideal for quiet environments such as offices, offering a medium-heavy weight and a substantial feel with each keystroke, perfect for those who prefer pronounced typing feedback without the noise. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple switches are known for their big tactile bump, providing an exhilarating typing experience with a snappy sound profile. The Aliaz is categorized as 'Silky', 'Muted', and 'Polished', while the Polaris Purple is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. 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
60g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
75g
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
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
Both the Gateron Aliaz and the SP-Star Polaris Purple utilize polycarbonate as their top and bottom housing material. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound when typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, making it an ideal material for switches designed with lighting effects in mind.
While both switches share the same polycarbonate material for their housing, the difference in design may lead to variations in typing experience. The Aliaz may feel different due to the specific construction of its housing, impacting the overall sound and feel. Similarly, the Polaris Purple might have its own unique typing feel based on the design of its housing. Despite the similarities in material, there may be subtle differences in how the switches sound and feel during use, depending on the specific configuration of their housings.
In terms of construction, the top and bottom housings of both the Gateron Aliaz and the SP-Star Polaris Purple play a significant role in the overall typing experience. The qualities of the polycarbonate material will be split between the top and bottom of the switches, affecting the sound and feel differently at various points of each keystroke. The bottom housing will have more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will influence the sound when a key is released. This division of housing material highlights how small design choices can result in varying typing experiences, even when using the same housing material.
Weight
The Gateron Aliaz tactile switch has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Aliaz also has a heavier bottom out force of 75 grams, while the Polaris Purple has a bottom out force of 67 grams. The Aliaz is on the heavier side, making it suitable for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, while the Polaris Purple falls in the medium-heavy category. Those who like a lighter typing experience may prefer the Polaris Purple for longer typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, users can expect a consistent tactile feedback and actuation point at the same distance. In terms of travel distance, both switches offer the same level of key press experience, making them ideal choices for those seeking a specific feel while typing or gaming. Whether choosing the Gateron Aliaz or the SP-Star Polaris Purple, users can be assured of a consistent travel distance for a satisfying typing or gaming experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
The SP-Star Polaris Purple 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 Purple 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 Gateron Aliaz switch is known for its muted sound profile, providing a softer and quieter typing experience compared to regular mechanical switches. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple switch offers a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, suitable for various purposes. Depending on factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, the sound produced by these switches can vary.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Aliaz switch offers a silky and polished typing experience, with exceptionally smooth key presses and reduced friction. Similarly, the SP-Star Polaris Purple switch provides a mild typing experience with a polished finish, ensuring smooth key travel and minimal resistance. Both switches aim to offer a comfortable typing feel, with the Polaris Purple being more gentle and approachable, while the Aliaz provides a medium-heavy weight for a more pronounced typing feedback.
Overall, both the Gateron Aliaz and SP-Star Polaris Purple switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Aliaz is tailored for quiet environments and provides a substantial typing feedback, the Polaris Purple offers an exhilarating tactile bump and a snappy sound profile. Depending on personal preferences and the intended use, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience with their distinct characteristics. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a quieter typing experience or a more tactile feedback.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering whether to choose the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch or the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, it is important to take into account your environment and preference for typing feedback. If you are in a quiet office setting and prefer a more substantial feel with a muted sound, the Aliaz switch with its heavy bottom out force may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for an exhilarating tactile typing experience with a snappy sound profile and a slightly lighter bottom out force, the Polaris Purple switch might be more suitable. Both switches offer a polished feel for smooth key travel, but the Polaris Purple provides a more gentle typing experience overall. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and the environment in which you will be using the keyboard.
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