Kailh Box Royal vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two notable options to consider are the Kailh Box Royal and the SP-Star Polaris Purple, both of which are tactile switches. The Box Royal is renowned for its distinctive tactility, offering a sharp and binary sensation when pressing down on the keys. If you prefer a highly tactile and almost aggressive typing experience, the Box Royals are the perfect fit for you. In terms of sound, these switches produce a relatively higher-pitched profile. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple stands out for its significant tactile bump, which provides an exhilarating typing sensation. The sound profile of these switches is described as snappy. It is important to note that the Polaris Purple is categorized as having a neutral, mild, and polished tactile feel. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities so that you can make an informed decision on the best switch for your specific needs and preferences.

By the numbers

Kailh Box Royal Tactile

SP-Star Polaris Purple Tactile

$6.25 per 10

$5.60

$5.00 per 10

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Housing materials

The Kailh Box Royal and the SP-Star Polaris Purple differ in their choice of housing materials for both the top and bottom of the switch. The Box Royal utilizes a nylon housing for both the top and bottom, while the Polaris Purple uses polycarbonate for both.

In terms of sound profile, the Box Royal's nylon housing creates a deeper and fuller sound due to its relatively softer plastic and higher sound absorption capabilities. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple's polycarbonate housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound due to its stiffer plastic composition. This means that typing on the Box Royal will result in a duller and rounder sound, while the Polaris Purple will offer a more clear and resonant sound experience.

Aesthetically, the top housing materials of these switches differ in transparency. While the Box Royal's nylon top housing is not transparent, the Polaris Purple's polycarbonate top housing allows for a translucent appearance. This is especially advantageous for those planning to use RGB lighting as the translucent polycarbonate enhances the lighting effects. The bottom housing materials of both switches do not significantly impact aesthetics as they are not visible.

Overall, both switches provide distinct sound profiles and offer unique features based on their housing materials. The Box Royal with its nylon housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, while the Polaris Purple with its polycarbonate housing produces a sharper and clearer sound. The choice between the two will depend on personal preferences and the desired sound experience. However, if RGB lighting is a priority, the Polaris Purple may be the better option due to its translucent top housing.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, we can see some similarities and differences. In terms of weight, the Kailh Box Royal is lighter with an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Polaris Purple's actuation force is unknown. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Box Royal at 70 grams and the Polaris Purple at 67 grams.

For those who prefer a lighter touch, the Kailh Box Royal would be a suitable choice as its actuation force is relatively low. This can be beneficial for extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions, as it requires less force to register keystrokes. On the other hand, if someone prefers a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, they may prefer the Polaris Purple. Although the exact actuation force is unknown, its bottom out force of 67 grams suggests a heavier and more pronounced keystroke feel.

It is important to note that while the actuation forces of these switches may differ, the results can still be similar as both switches have a medium-heavy bottom out force. Therefore, users can expect a satisfying tactile feedback when fully pressing down on the keys, which can add to the typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences regarding the actuation force and the desired typing experience.

Travel distance

The Kailh Box Royal tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch. The shorter travel distance of the Box Royal switch may be preferable for gamers who prioritize faster response times. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Polaris Purple switch may appeal to individuals who prefer a greater sense of depth and a more gradual key press. Ultimately, the choice of which switch to go for depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience, with the shorter travel distance providing quicker responsiveness and the longer travel distance offering a more substantial key press.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Kailh Box Royal tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch have distinct differences in terms of sound and feel. The Box Royal switch is best known for its sharp, binary tactility, which provides a nearly aggressive tactile experience. It has a relatively higher pitched sound profile, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple switch is known for its big tactile bump, which offers an exhilarating typing experience. The sound profile of the Polaris Purple is described as snappy. It has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for most intents and purposes.

When it comes to feel, the Box Royal switch is characterized by a sharp tactile bump with a high feedback intensity. This ensures a distinctly felt tactile experience with each keypress. In contrast, the Polaris Purple switch offers a mild typing experience, with a more gentle tactile feedback. It falls in a safe middle-ground zone, making it approachable to most users. Additionally, the Polaris Purple switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.

In conclusion, the Kailh Box Royal and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches have different subjective qualities. The Box Royal switch provides a sharp, binary tactility and has a higher-pitched sound profile. It offers a high feedback intensity, providing a distinctive tactile experience. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple switch offers a big tactile bump, providing an exhilarating typing experience. It has a snappy sound profile and a mild feel that is approachable to most users, with the added benefit of a polished finish. Depending on your preferences, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience.

Conclusion

In closing, if you're looking for a nearly aggressive tactility and a higher pitched sound profile, the Kailh Box Royal tactile switch would be the perfect choice for you. The sharp, binary tactility of these switches provides a distinct and intense feedback with each keypress. On the other hand, if you prefer a more exhilarating tactile typing experience with a snappy sound profile, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch would be the ideal option. These switches have a big tactile bump that offers an enjoyable typing experience. Additionally, if you prefer a switch with a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel, the Polaris Purple is a great choice with its polished characteristics. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities and it will depend on your personal preferences in terms of tactility, sound, and feel.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh Box Royal Tactile

$6.25 per 10

Learn more

SP-Star Polaris Purple Tactile

$5.60

$5.00 per 10

Learn more