KTT Darling vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the KTT Darling and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The KTT Darling, a linear switch, offers a typing experience that is both chewy and substantial, with a pronounced bounciness that adds a springy responsiveness to each keystroke. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple, a tactile switch, provides a thrilling tactile typing experience with a big tactile bump and a snappy sound profile. The Darling is characterized by its 'Bouncy', 'Clacky', 'High-pitched', and 'Resonant' qualities, whereas the Polaris Purple is described as 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. Choosing between these two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you're looking for; 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
53g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The main difference between the housing materials of the KTT Darling and the SP-Star Polaris Purple lies in their bottom housing. The Darling uses a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Polaris Purple utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile attributed to its stiffer plastic material. This contrast highlights how different housing materials can significantly impact the overall sound and typing experience of a keyboard switch.
On the other hand, both the Darling and the Polaris Purple feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a similar sharp, high-pitched, and clear sound profile. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches enhances the resonant sound and is especially suitable for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. Despite having the same top housing material, the distinct bottom housing materials of these two switches showcase how variations in housing materials can offer users different typing experiences and sound preferences.
Overall, the choice between the KTT Darling and the SP-Star Polaris Purple ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel. The Darling offers a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon bottom housing, while the Polaris Purple provides a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate bottom housing. Both switches share similarities in their polycarbonate top housing, which enhances clarity and resonance in typing. Ultimately, whether one prefers a softer, rounder sound or a sharper, clearer sound will determine which switch is more suitable for individual preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Darling linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, it is evident that the Darling is lighter in terms of actuation force at 45 grams compared to the Polaris Purple which has an unknown actuation force. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Darling is also lighter at 53 grams whereas the Polaris Purple is heavier at 67 grams. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to the variation in force required. The Darling provides a medium-light touch, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter keypress, while the Polaris Purple offers a medium-heavy touch, providing a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preference for a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The KTT Darling linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Darling has a shorter travel distance compared to the Polaris Purple. The Darling's 3.5 mm distance offers a quicker response time, which is favored by gamers looking for fast reactions. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple's 4 mm travel distance provides a more substantial feeling when typing, which some users may prefer for a more satisfying key press. Both switches offer their own advantages based on personal preference, with the Darling offering faster response and the Polaris Purple providing a more pronounced typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Darling has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Darling for $3.90.
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 KTT Darling linear switch offers a high-pitched and resonant experience, providing a sharp and crisp sound that is both engaging and immersive. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch has a snappy sound profile, which may appeal to those seeking a more neutral and moderate sound. The choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference, with the Darling offering a more pronounced and engaging auditory feedback, while the Polaris Purple provides a more subtle and balanced sound experience.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the KTT Darling is known for its bouncy sensation, delivering a spring-like feedback that adds a lively feel to each keystroke. In contrast, the SP-Star Polaris Purple switch is described as providing a mild and polished typing experience, offering a more gentle feel that is approachable to most users. The Darling's bouncy feedback creates a more tactile and responsive typing experience, while the Polaris Purple's smooth and refined finish ensures a sleek and consistent key travel.
Overall, the KTT Darling linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch offer distinct advantages in terms of sound and feel. The Darling provides a chewy and substantial typing sensation with a high-pitched and resonant sound profile, along with bouncy feedback for a lively typing experience. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple offers a more neutral and moderate sound, along with a mild and polished feel that is smooth and refined. Depending on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience, both switches can provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience for newcomers in the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the KTT Darling linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a chewy and substantial typing sensation with a bouncy and springy responsiveness, along with a resonant, high-pitched sound upon bottoming out, then the KTT Darling may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile typing experience with a big tactile bump and a snappy sound profile, then the SP-Star Polaris Purple could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound. Consider what type of typing experience you find most satisfying and engaging.
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