Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the SP-Star Polaris Purple both offer unique tactile experiences tailored to different preferences among typists and gamers alike. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro is celebrated for its pronounced tactile bump and a distinctly loud, bass-heavy sound signature that can energize your typing sessions. If you seek an engaging and responsive feel with a little more auditory feedback, this switch might be your ideal choice. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple delivers a satisfying tactile response as well, but with a snappier sound profile that strikes a balance between subtlety and responsiveness, appealing to those who prefer a more refined auditory experience while typing. Both switches offer distinct advantages depending on your priorities—whether you favor a more visceral and loud experience or a polished and neutral feel. 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
30g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Nylon
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the SP-Star Polaris Purple, one notable similarity stands out: both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This commonality results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which enhances the clarity and resonance of sound. Furthermore, the translucent nature of polycarbonate not only makes it aesthetically pleasing but also functional, as it allows for vibrant RGB lighting to shine through effectively. Users will likely experience a similar auditory signature from both switches when typing or gaming, as they leverage this advantageous material in the top sections of their designs.
However, the differences between the two switches become evident when examining the bottom housing materials. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro employs nylon for its bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon's softer composition absorbs sound, producing a duller and rounder auditory experience that contrasts with the sharply resonant qualities of polycarbonate. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple uses polycarbonate for its bottom housing as well, mirroring the crisp sound characteristics noted in its top housing. Consequently, while both switches share a polycarbonate bottom, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro’s nylon bottom may lead to a more cushioned typing experience, allowing for greater differentiation in the overall sound and feel of each switch.
When pressed, the distinct materials of each switch will influence the tactile and auditory experiences. The nylon bottom housing of the V3 Creamy Purple Pro will absorb some of the impact, yielding a softer bottom-out sound and feel, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Polaris Purple will continue to promote its characteristic clear and sharp sound throughout the keystroke. This interplay between the top and bottom housing materials means that while both switches have shared similarities in their upper structures, their lower halves contribute unique traits that can alter the overall sound and typing feel. Ultimately, while similar acoustics might be present during actuation, the resulting feel and sound upon bottoming out could vary, making each switch an individual experience.
Weight
The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch present distinct differences in their force specifications, particularly in terms of actuation and bottom out forces. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro features a relatively light actuation force of 30 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a lighter touch, which can enhance comfort during extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Polaris Purple switch does not have a specified actuation force, but it has a bottom out force of 67 grams, indicating a more substantial feel when fully pressed down. This generally results in a medium-heavy typing experience compared to the V3's lighter forces. Overall, those seeking a softer keystroke experience should lean towards the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro, while users who favor a firmer push would likely prefer the heavier characteristics of the SP-Star Polaris Purple switch.
Travel distance
The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch differ notably in their travel distances, with the former measuring 3 mm and the latter measuring 4 mm. The V3 Creamy Purple Pro's shorter travel distance of 3 mm aligns with the current trend toward more shallow switches, which many gamers appreciate for their quicker responsiveness and ease of rapid key presses. In contrast, the Polaris Purple’s traditional 4 mm travel distance offers a deeper feel that some users may prefer for a more substantial tactile experience. Thus, if you favor a switch that feels more abrupt and immediate, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro would be the better choice, while those leaning towards a more pronounced tactile feedback would find the SP-Star Polaris Purple more suitable.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro has an MSRP of $3.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Creamy Purple Pro for $2.10.
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
When it comes to sound, the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro's noteworthy feature is its loud bassier signature, which can make it quite striking in a typing environment. This sound profile is characterized by an invigorating and bold presence that adds a lively atmosphere to your typing experience. In contrast, the SP-Star Polaris Purple has a more neutral sound characterized as snappy. While it may not be as pronounced as the Creamy Purple Pro, the Polaris still provides a satisfying auditory feedback that is versatile enough to suit various settings, whether casual or professional. It's important to note that the overall sound can be influenced by the choice of keyboard and keycaps, providing users with some flexibility in tailoring their sound experience.
In terms of feel, the Creamy Purple Pro stands out with its large tactile bump, delivering a pronounced and invigorating tactile feedback that can be quite engaging during typing. The tactile punch here may appeal to those who enjoy a more dynamic typing experience. Conversely, the Polaris Purple offers a milder experience overall, leaning towards a gentle yet exhilarating tactile bump. The added polish to the switch not only enhances the smoothness and overall typing experience by reducing friction, but it also allows the key travel to feel refined and sleek. Therefore, while the Creamy Purple Pro provides a more intense tactile sensation, the Polaris Purple is polished and approachable, making it suitable for a wider range of users.
In conclusion, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro is ideal for those who relish a loud and bold typing experience with a significant tactile bump, while the SP-Star Polaris Purple suits those who prefer a smoother, more gentle feel without compromising on tactile engagement. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences regarding sound dynamics and typing sensation, with both switches capable of providing satisfying results tailored to a user’s specific needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, the decision between the Akko V3 Creamy Purple Pro and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switches ultimately hinges on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and actuation force. If you favor a lighter switch with an invigorating tactile bump and don't mind a louder sound profile, the V3 Creamy Purple Pro may be the perfect choice for you. Its 50 gram actuation force makes it suitable for those who desire a swift response without much effort, ideal for both gaming and casual typing where quick keystrokes are essential. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial typing experience with a medium-heavy actuation force of 67 grams, the Polaris Purple offers a snappy sound profile and a big tactile bump that can enhance your typing satisfaction. The mild and polished characteristics of the Polaris switch ensure a smooth and refined typing experience, making it a great option if you're looking for versatility that works well in various environments, from office settings to gaming marathons. Ultimately, factoring in your typing style, sound preferences, and desired actuation force will guide you to the switch that best fits your needs.
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