KTT F2 vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the KTT F2 and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the KTT F2 linear switch to the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, one can see distinct differences in their design and typing experiences. The KTT F2 stands out for its hollow sound signature and lightly textured feel, offering a comfortable and nuanced typing experience categorized as feathery, mild, neutral, subdued, and subtle. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple is known for its exhilarating tactile bump and snappy sound profile, categorized as neutral, mild, and polished. Depending on your preference for a more subdued and subtle typing experience versus a polished and exhilarating tactile feel, each switch offers unique qualities that cater to different typing styles. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The KTT F2 and the SP-Star Polaris Purple both feature polycarbonate top and bottom housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate plastic enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced by the switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches designed with RGB lighting in mind. Both keyboards provide a visually appealing and acoustically pleasing typing experience thanks to the polycarbonate housing material used in their construction.
While the KTT F2 and SP-Star Polaris Purple share the same polycarbonate housing material for both the top and bottom housings, they may still offer slight variations in sound profile due to different switch designs and keycap materials. The combination of the polycarbonate top and bottom housings in these keyboards ensures a consistent and clear typing experience with a sharp and crisp sound profile. The use of polycarbonate allows for a solid and resonant bottom-out sound when pressing a key, while also contributing to a clean sound upon key release.
Overall, the KTT F2 and SP-Star Polaris Purple keyboards showcase the benefits of using polycarbonate housing materials in keyboard construction. Both keyboards offer a premium typing experience with a focus on producing sharp, higher-pitched, and clear sound profiles. The translucency of polycarbonate allows for compatibility with RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of the keyboards. Whether typing on the KTT F2 or the SP-Star Polaris Purple, users can expect a satisfying tactile feedback and acoustically pleasant typing experience thanks to the use of polycarbonate housing materials.
Weight
The KTT F2 linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 53 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. In contrast, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel. The actuation force for the Polaris Purple is not specified, but based on the difference in bottom out force, it can be inferred that it is likely heavier than the F2. Those who enjoy a softer touch when typing may prefer the F2, while those who prefer a more pronounced typing feedback may lean towards the Polaris Purple. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The KTT F2 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it a shorter option compared to the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The F2 offers a quicker response time, which is favored by many gamers, while the Polaris Purple provides a deeper feeling when typing. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Polaris Purple being slightly longer. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for either a shorter or longer 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 KTT F2 comes in at $3.90 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
When it comes to sound, the KTT F2 linear switch offers a unique hollow sound signature that sets it apart from other switches. It falls under the category of a subdued switch, producing a dampened sound when pressed, making it a good option for those looking for a more subtle sound profile. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, which is moderate and suitable for most purposes. The Polaris Purple switch provides a snappy sound experience, likely due to its tactile bump, offering a different auditory experience compared to the F2.
In terms of feel, the KTT F2 linear switch is known for its feathery and mild characteristics, offering a light and gentle typing experience. It falls into the category of subtle switches, providing a light resistance and a comfortable feel for extended typing sessions. In contrast, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch is described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience suitable for most users. Additionally, the Polaris Purple switch is categorized as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the KTT F2 linear switch and SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The F2 provides a distinct hollow sound and lightly textured feel, while the Polaris Purple offers a snappy sound profile and a polished, smooth typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference for sound and feel, with both switches providing comfortable typing experiences tailored to different preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the KTT F2 linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, consider your preference for weightiness and typing experience. If you prefer a medium-light switch with a distinct hollow sound and lightly textured feel, the F2 may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a medium-heavy switch with a big tactile bump and a snappy sound profile, the Polaris Purple may be more suitable. Both switches offer a neutral sound profile, but the F2 provides a feathery, mild, or subtle feel, while the Polaris Purple offers a mild and polished typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and preferences.
Mentioned in this article
