Kailh Box White vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a plethora of options available to suit the preferences of every typist. Two switches that offer distinct experiences are the Kailh Box White, a clicky switch, and the SP-Star Polaris Purple, a tactile switch. If you crave maximum audio feedback and enjoy the sensation of typing on autumn leaves, the Box White is the one for you. With its resonant, high-pitched sound profile and crunchy yet polished feel, it provides a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple offers a different kind of satisfaction through its exhilarating tactile bump. The snappy sound profile and a mildly polished feel make it an appealing choice as well. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
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
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Kailh Box White and the SP-Star Polaris Purple both feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material provides both switches with a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The transparency of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches that are intended to be used with RGB lighting setups. Essentially, when it comes to their top housings, the Box White and the Polaris Purple provide similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics.
However, the major difference between these switches lies in their bottom housings. The Box White utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple features a polycarbonate bottom housing, aligning with its top housing material. This means that the Polaris Purple will provide a consistent sound profile throughout, maintaining the sharpness and clarity that polycarbonate offers.
When it comes to the overall typing experience, the impact of the bottom housing is more noticeable. The characteristics of the bottom housing will affect the sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, creating a distinct bottom-out experience. Conversely, the sound when releasing a key will be influenced more by the characteristics of the top housing. While both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, the choice between the Kailh Box White and the SP-Star Polaris Purple will come down to personal preferences regarding sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Box White has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, which falls into the medium range. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple's actuation force is unknown, making it difficult to compare directly, but it has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is classified as medium-heavy.
The lighter actuation force of the Box White switch may be favored by individuals who prefer a lighter keystroke, as it allows for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. This makes it ideal for those who commonly use their keyboard for work or engage in extended gaming sessions. On the contrary, the Polaris Purple, with its medium-heavy bottom out force, is suited for individuals who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Its heavier force provides a stronger push feel, enhancing the overall tactile feedback while typing.
In instances where the actuation forces of the two switches are equal, such as the unknown actuation force of the Polaris Purple, one can expect similar results in terms of triggering a keystroke. However, it is important to note that the Polaris Purple's heavier bottom out force may still offer a more robust typing experience compared to the Box White. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The Kailh Box White clicky switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Polaris Purple has a longer distance compared to the Box White. The Polaris Purple is closer to the traditional travel distance of 4.0 mm, while the Box White falls slightly below that. If you prefer a shorter travel distance for faster response times, the Box White would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper, more substantial feel when pressing down on a key, the Polaris Purple with its slightly longer travel distance might be more to your liking. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Kailh Box White comes in at $2.76 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
The Box White switch is best known for its maximum audio feedback, producing a sound reminiscent of stepping on autumn leaves. It has a resonant and high-pitched sound profile, providing a clean and sharp auditory experience. This clicky switch also offers an accented tactility when typing, giving users a satisfying feel. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple switch has a big tactile bump that creates an exhilarating tactile typing experience. While the sound profile of the Polaris Purple is described as snappy, further details are unknown. In terms of feel, the Box White switch is polished, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Polaris Purple switch is also polished, offering a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Additionally, the Polaris Purple switch is described as mild, providing a gentle typing experience that most users will find approachable. Overall, the Box White switch provides maximum audio feedback and an accented tactility, while the Polaris Purple switch offers a big tactile bump and unknown sound profile details. Both switches have a polished finish for smooth typing, making them suitable for different preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are someone who desires maximum audio feedback and a pronounced tactile experience, then the Kailh Box White clicky switch would be the ideal choice for you. With a bottom out force of 60 grams, it offers a medium actuation force that is comfortable for most typists. The "stepping on autumn leaves" crunch sound and accented tactility make typing on these switches a delight. Additionally, if you enjoy a resonant and high-pitched sound profile, the Box White is sure to satisfy your auditory preferences.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more exhilarating tactile typing experience without the loud clicky sound, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch would be a better fit. With a bottom out force of 67 grams, these switches provide a medium-heavy actuation force that adds a touch of firmness to your typing. The big tactile bump offers a satisfying feedback, while the snappy sound profile gives a sense of responsiveness. The Polaris Purple switch is a great choice for those seeking a balance between tactile enjoyment and a moderate sound level.
Ultimately, your decision between the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch boils down to your personal preferences. If you prioritize auditory feedback and a distinct typing experience, go for the Box White. If you value a tactile bump without the clicky sound, opt for the Polaris Purple. Both switches offer a polished typing feel, thanks to reduced friction and smooth key travel. Consider your desired sound and feel, and choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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