TTC Gold Pink vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Pink and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the TTC Gold Pink and the SP-Star Polaris Purple. The Gold Pink offers a lightning-fast and effortless typing experience, perfect for both rapid typing and gaming, thanks to its 37g actuation force. These linear switches provide a satisfying level of feedback with their clacky sound. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple stands out for its exhilarating tactile typing experience, thanks to its big tactile bump. The snappy sound profile of the Polaris Purple adds to its appeal. While the Gold Pink offers a light and lively typing experience, the Polaris Purple provides a more tactile sensation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial 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
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
Comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Pink and the SP-Star Polaris Purple, both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile, making it ideal for those seeking a distinct auditory experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the use of RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetics of both switches.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the Gold Pink features nylon while the Polaris Purple incorporates polycarbonate. The nylon bottom housing of the Gold Pink provides a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to its polycarbonate counterpart in the Polaris Purple. This is attributed to nylon's softer nature, which absorbs more sound and thus creates a duller and rounder sound. While the Polaris Purple's polycarbonate bottom housing offers a sharper and crisper sound, it may lack the depth and richness found in a nylon housing.
In terms of functionality, the differences in the top and bottom housings allow for a split in the qualities they bring to the switch. When pressing down on both switches, the qualities of the bottom housing become apparent, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. On the other hand, the release of a key will showcase the impact of the top housing on the sound produced. Despite the variance in housing materials, both the Gold Pink and the Polaris Purple deliver unique sound profiles and can provide satisfying typing experiences.
Overall, the housing materials of the TTC Gold Pink and the SP-Star Polaris Purple share many similarities due to their use of polycarbonate for the top housing. This results in a similar sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches. However, their differences lie in the bottom housing material, with the Gold Pink employing nylon for a deeper and fuller sound while the Polaris Purple opts for polycarbonate for a sharper and crisper sound. Regardless, both switches offer distinct auditory experiences, making them suitable choices for keyboard enthusiasts seeking unique sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, we can see a clear difference in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Gold Pink has a relatively lighter actuation force of 37 grams, while the Polaris Purple's actuation force is unknown. However, the Gold Pink's bottom out force is 45 grams, which is still considered light. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy. It is worth noting that both switches offer a different typing experience due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces. For those who prefer a lighter feel, the Gold Pink would be the ideal choice, as it allows for longer typing sessions and is suitable for both work and gaming. In contrast, the Polaris Purple offers a stronger push feel, providing a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on the individual's preference for a lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Pink and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance of travel. Although the travel distances are equal, it is worth noting that both switches offer different levels of tactile feedback and actuation force, which may affect the overall typing experience. However, in terms of the distance traveled by the switch itself, both the Gold Pink and the Polaris Purple provide a consistent and uniform 4 mm travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Pink has an MSRP of $4.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Pink for $4.28.
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 TTC Gold Pink switches are described as clacky, providing a satisfying level of feedback. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches are described as having a snappy sound profile. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also dependent on other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps being used. Therefore, with both switches, the sound experience can vary based on those additional factors.
Moving on to feel, the TTC Gold Pink switches offer a range of descriptors. They are described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. They are also considered mild, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. The Gold Pink switches are further described as feathery, meaning they are exceptionally light to press and reduce finger fatigue. Additionally, they are described as subtle, featuring a gentle resistance and a sound signature that is not resonant, making them suitable for shared spaces. Finally, the Gold Pink switches are described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience.
Similarly, the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches are also described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Additionally, they are described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience. With both switches sharing descriptors such as mild and polished, they are likely to provide a similar typing feel, albeit with some variations due to factors such as the choice of board and keycaps.
Overall, the TTC Gold Pink switches are best known for their light and lively typing experience with a clacky sound, while the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches are known for their exhilarating tactile typing experience with a snappy sound. Both switches offer a mild and polished typing feel, ensuring a smooth and refined keystroke experience. When choosing between the Gold Pinks and the Polaris Purples, it ultimately comes down to personal preference in terms of desired sound profile and tactile experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the TTC Gold Pink linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prioritize a light and effortless typing experience, the Gold Pink is the way to go. With a bottom out force of 45 grams and a 37g actuation force, these switches are perfect for rapid typing or gaming, providing a satisfying level of feedback with their clacky sound. They offer a buttery, mild, feathery, subtle, and polished feel, ensuring a smooth and uniform typing sensation.
On the other hand, if you prefer an exhilarating tactile typing experience and don't mind a slightly heavier switch, the Polaris Purple is the choice for you. With a bottom out force of 67 grams, these switches offer a big tactile bump and a snappy sound profile. They provide a mild and polished feel, resulting in a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users.
Both switches have their strengths, and it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing needs. Whether you prioritize a lighter and livelier typing experience or a more pronounced tactile feedback, you can't go wrong with either the TTC Gold Pink linear switch or the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch. Happy typing!
Mentioned in this article
