HMX Deep Navy vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the HMX Deep Navy and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between different options that cater to varied preferences and typing styles. The HMX Deep Navy, a linear switch, is renowned for its silky smooth keystrokes and immersive sound profile, thanks to its full nylon construction and Ly stem. This combination makes it an ideal choice for those who value seamless, uninterrupted typing and a more subdued auditory experience. In contrast, the SP-Star Polaris Purple offers a tactile experience like no other, delivering a significant tactile bump that enhances the sensation of each keystroke while providing a snappy sound profile. This switch is perfect for users who appreciate feedback and a more engaging typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on whether you prefer the smoothness of linear switches or the tactile sensation of tactile switches. 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
40g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The HMX Deep Navy and the SP-Star Polaris Purple exhibit distinct characteristics in their housing materials, which affect both the auditory and tactile experiences of the switches. The Deep Navy utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housing. This material is known for its softer texture and ability to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon's dampening properties contribute to a rounded auditory experience, which may appeal to users who prefer a more subdued keystroke sound. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple switch features polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housing. This stiffer plastic enhances sound clarity and contributes to a higher-pitched, crisper sound profile. Such distinctions in material lead to significantly different sensory experiences when typing.
In terms of aesthetics, the two housing materials also diverge. The polycarbonate used in the Polaris Purple is typically clear and translucently highlights its internal components, making it particularly suited for setups with RGB lighting. The bright and vibrant illumination that shines through the polycarbonate contributes to a visually engaging experience during use. Conversely, the nylon housing of the Deep Navy, while effective in creating a more muted sound, does not provide the same level of visual dynamics as polycarbonate. Users looking for an aesthetically pleasing keyboard with vibrant lighting effects may thus favor the Polaris Purple over the Deep Navy, which tends to have a more understated visual presence.
Despite their differences, both switches can offer a user-friendly experience based on their respective designs. If one were to utilize the Deep Navy for its enhanced sound absorption—ideal for quieter environments—while the Polaris Purple's clarity and resonance might suit those in dynamic and illuminated settings, similar tactile sensations could emerge depending on the configuration of the keyboard. For instance, if both switches were utilized in a keyboard where the bottom-out feel remained consistent, users might enjoy a certain level of familiarity in keystroke response, despite the auditory differences stemming from their distinct housing materials. Ultimately, personal preference will play a crucial role in determining which characteristics are most appealing to individual users.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, there is a clear distinction in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Deep Navy features a light actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Polaris Purple does not specify its actuation force but has a distinctly heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, which suggests a stronger push feel that might appeal to those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. As a result, the HMX Deep Navy is the lighter choice overall, whereas the SP-Star Polaris Purple leans towards a medium-heavy feel, providing a contrast in typing experience. Users looking to minimize fatigue during long use would likely favor the Deep Navy, while those who prefer a firmer keystroke might opt for the Polaris Purple.
Travel distance
The HMX Deep Navy linear switch features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Polaris Purple switch provides a more pronounced depth when pressed, appealing to users who enjoy a more substantial feedback from their keystrokes. In contrast, the shorter 3.6 mm travel distance of the Deep Navy switch offers a quicker response time, making it a favorable option for gamers who prioritize speed and efficiency in their key presses. Ultimately, if you prefer a more responsive feel, the Deep Navy is the better choice, whereas if you value a deeper, more tactile experience, the Polaris Purple would be more suitable.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Deep Navy has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Deep Navy for $2.79.
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
The sound profile of the HMX Deep Navy switch is characterized by a rich and sharp tone that delivers a satisfying auditory experience with each keystroke. The full nylon construction likely contributes to this distinct sound quality, making it an engaging choice for users who appreciate a more resonant typing experience. In contrast, the SP-Star Polaris Purple switch features a snappy sound profile, which is accentuated by its pronounced tactile bump. This sound is described as neutral, making the Polaris Purple versatile for a variety of typing contexts, whether at home or in a work environment. While both switches provide distinct auditory feedback, the Deep Navy focuses on richness, while the Polaris Purple balances snappiness with a more subdued approach.
When it comes to feel, the HMX Deep Navy offers a uniquely silky smooth experience thanks to its Ly stem, allowing for fluid navigation across the keyboard. This design prioritizes easy actuation and an enjoyable typing sensation. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple showcases a mild tactile feel, providing a gentle typing experience that can cater to diverse preferences. Additionally, these switches are polished, which results in a refined and smooth key travel, lowering friction and enhancing the overall typing experience. Thus, while the Deep Navy emphasizes smoothness in its action, the Polaris Purple taps into tactile feedback to deliver rewarding sensations with each keystroke.
In conclusion, both the HMX Deep Navy and SP-Star Polaris Purple switches offer unique auditory and tactile experiences that cater to different preferences. The Deep Navy stands out for its rich sound quality and silky smoothness, making it a great option for those who enjoy a more resonant typing experience. In contrast, the Polaris Purple provides a snappy sound paired with a pronounced tactile bump, appealing to users who appreciate feedback and a balanced typing experience. Ultimately, whether you prioritize sound, feel, or a mix of both, both switches can deliver satisfying performance tailored to your typing style.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and the specific typing experience you seek. If you value a light and smooth keystroke with a rich sound profile, the Deep Navy is an excellent option, particularly for gaming or long typing sessions where rapid key presses are necessary. The low actuation force of 45 grams allows for swift feedback, making it ideal if you desire a more effortless typing experience. On the other hand, if you appreciate pronounced tactile feedback and a more substantial typing feel, the Polaris Purple would suit you better. With its medium-heavy actuation force of 67 grams and distinct tactile bump, this switch caters to those who enjoy a little extra resistance and are looking for a more exhilarating typing experience, especially during extensive writing or programming tasks. Moreover, the neutral sound profile and mild sensations provide a versatile option for both home and workplace environments. Your choice will ultimately depend on whether you prioritize smoothness and responsiveness or tactile feedback and stability in your daily typing rituals.
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