Bsun Avocado vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the Bsun Avocado and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the BSUN Avocado and the SP-Star Polaris Purple mechanical keyboard switches, one can see that both offer a tactile typing experience, but with distinct characteristics. The BSUN Avocado switch is known for its refreshing tactile sensation, featuring a snappy and buttery downstroke that is satisfying without being overwhelming. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple switch provides a big tactile bump that delivers an exhilarating typing experience with a snappy sound profile. While the Avocado is described as 'Accented' and 'Sharp', the Polaris Purple is labeled as 'Neutral' and 'Polished'. If you are looking for a switch with a pronounced tactile bump and a mild sound signature, the Avocado may be the way to go. However, if you prefer a tactile switch with a big bump and a snappy sound profile, the Polaris Purple could be the one for you. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Bsun Avocado and SP-Star Polaris Purple both share a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffness. This material is especially ideal for switches with RGB lighting as its translucency allows the light to shine through, enhancing the aesthetics of the keyboard. However, the Avocado features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature. In contrast, the Polaris Purple maintains a polycarbonate bottom housing, maintaining a clear and resonant sound profile similar to its top housing.
The differences in housing materials between the Avocado and Polaris Purple result in variations in sound and feel when typing on these switches. While the Avocado offers a deeper and fuller sound when bottoming out, the Polaris Purple provides a sharper and crisper sound profile throughout. The material composition of the bottom housing plays a significant role in determining the sound and feel when pressing down on the keys, with nylon offering a softer and more absorbent quality compared to the stiffer polycarbonate. Conversely, the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key, showcasing the sharper and clearer characteristics of polycarbonate in both switches.
Overall, the housing materials of the Bsun Avocado and SP-Star Polaris Purple play a crucial role in shaping the typing experience on these switches. While both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing that enhances the sound profile and aesthetics, the contrast in bottom housing materials results in a discernible difference in sound and feel when typing. Whether you prefer the deeper and fuller sound of the Avocado's nylon bottom housing or the sharper and crisper profile of the Polaris Purple's polycarbonate bottom housing, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Avocado tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, the Avocado has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Polaris Purple's unknown actuation force. However, both switches have a similar medium-heavy bottom out force, with the Avocado at 65 grams and the Polaris Purple at 67 grams. This means that while the Avocado provides a lighter initial keystroke, both switches offer a comparable typing experience in terms of the force required to fully press a key. Depending on personal preference, the Avocado may be favored for its lighter actuation force for extended typing sessions, while the Polaris Purple may appeal to those who prefer a slightly heavier touch for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer a medium-heavy bottom out force, providing a satisfying tactile typing experience.
Travel distance
The Bsun Avocado tactile switch offers a travel distance of 3.4 mm, which is shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch. The Avocado's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Polaris Purple may provide a more satisfying depth for those who prefer a more robust feel. Both switches offer unique benefits based on their respective travel distances, allowing users to choose the option that best suits their preference for typing or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and tactile feedback.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Avocado has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Avocado for $4.00.
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 Bsun Avocado switch is known for its neutral sound signature, providing a subtle and unobtrusive auditory experience during typing sessions. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple switch offers a snappy sound profile, adding a bit more liveliness to the typing experience. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the Avocado emphasizing a quiet backdrop and the Polaris Purple delivering a more pronounced auditory feedback depending on personal preference and environmental considerations.
When it comes to feel, the Bsun Avocado switch is described as accenting satisfying tactile feedback without being overwhelming, providing a balanced and invigorating typing sensation. The switch is known for its sharp and snappy tactile response, appealing to those seeking a distinct tactile bump with each keypress. Meanwhile, the SP-Star Polaris Purple switch offers a milder tactile experience, providing a gentler typing feel that is approachable to most users. Its polished finish contributes to a smooth and refined typing experience, characterized by reduced friction and comfortable key travel.
In conclusion, the subjective qualities of the Bsun Avocado tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. The Avocado offers a more neutral sound profile and an invigorating tactile feel, while the Polaris Purple provides a snappier sound experience and a milder, polished tactile sensation. Each switch has unique characteristics that can enhance the typing experience based on individual preferences. Overall, both switches offer satisfying tactile feedback and responsive performance, ensuring an enjoyable mechanical keyboard experience for users seeking different levels of sound and feel in their typing sessions.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the BSUN Avocado tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a tactile switch with a pronounced bump and a buttery downstroke, the Avocado would be a great choice for you. Its snappy and responsive feel, along with a mild, neutral sound profile, makes for a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a big tactile bump and a snappy sound profile, the Polaris Purple might be more your style. With a slightly higher bottom out force and a mild, polished feel, these switches offer an exhilarating typing experience with smooth key travel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for tactility and sound when selecting between these two tactile switches. Choose the one that best suits your typing style and preferences, and enjoy a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
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