TTC Gold Red vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red 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 Red and the SP-Star Polaris Purple. The Gold Red is a linear switch that provides a buttery smooth typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance. It offers a snappy sound profile that adds a modest touch of personality to your keyboard without being too ostentatious. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple is a tactile switch known for its exhilarating tactile typing experience, thanks to a big bump. While the sound profile of the Polaris Purple is also snappy, it offers a different feel compared to the Gold Red. The Gold Red is categorized as thocky, low-pitched, neutral, mild, silky, subtle, and polished, while the Polaris Purple is categorized as neutral, mild, and polished. Both switches have their unique qualities, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. 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
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
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
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the TTC Gold Red and the SP-Star Polaris Purple, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice allows for a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for those who prioritize sound quality. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for users planning to incorporate RGB lighting into their keyboard setup. Therefore, regardless of whether one chooses the Gold Red or the Polaris Purple, they can expect similar results in terms of sound quality and aesthetic appeal.
On the other hand, the bottom housing materials differ between the two switches. The Gold Red features a nylon bottom housing, while the Polaris Purple utilizes polycarbonate for its bottom housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. This can be advantageous for individuals who prefer a more muted typing experience. In contrast, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Polaris Purple contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile similar to that of the top housing. This material choice adds to the overall clarity and resonance of the switch's sound.
When considering the overall effect of the housing materials on the switches, it is important to note that the top and bottom housings play distinct roles. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down, while the top housing affects the sound when the key is released. Therefore, the choice of housing materials for both the top and bottom housings can significantly influence the typing experience and sound produced by the switches. Regardless of whether one prefers the Gold Red's nylon bottom housing or the Polaris Purple's polycarbonate bottom housing, it is crucial to understand how these materials contribute to the overall characteristics of the switch.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, there are noticeable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Gold Red has an actuation force of 43 grams, which is relatively light, compared to the unknown actuation force of the Polaris Purple. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Gold Red requires a force of 50 grams, while the Polaris Purple requires a heavier force of 67 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Gold Red would be a suitable choice, as its actuation force allows for effortless keystrokes. The lighter weight can also contribute to longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial pushing feel and desire a tactile feedback may prefer the Polaris Purple with its heavier bottom out force. The additional force required to bottom out can provide a satisfying and robust typing experience.
Although the actuation force of the Polaris Purple is unavailable, it is important to note that in terms of bottom out force, it is heavier than the Gold Red. This indicates that users can expect a more substantial feel when typing on the Polaris Purple, which may be preferable for those who seek a stronger tactile response.
Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference, as well as the desired typing experience. Whether one prefers a light and effortless typing experience or a more substantial and tactile feel, both the TTC Gold Red and the SP-Star Polaris Purple can offer satisfying results.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will feel the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent and satisfying tactile feedback to the user. Whether you choose the Gold Red or the Polaris Purple, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance and key press experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red for $3.28.
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
The TTC Gold Red linear switch is best known for its buttery smooth typing experience and light-medium level of resistance. It offers a snappy sound profile that adds a modest touch of personality to your keyboard without being too ostentatious. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch is distinguished by its big tactile bump, providing an exhilarating tactile typing experience. The sound profile of the Polaris Purple is also described as snappy.
In terms of sound, the Gold Red switch is described as thocky, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. It has a low-pitched sound profile, featuring a bass-heavy and mellow tone. Overall, the Gold Red switch has a neutral sound profile and is suitable for most intents and purposes. The Polaris Purple switch, on the other hand, is also described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and situations. However, the specific sound characteristics of the Polaris Purple switch are not provided in the given information.
When it comes to feel, the Gold Red switch is characterized as mild and silky, providing a gentle and exceptionally smooth typing experience. It has a subtle resistance, maintaining a light typing feel, and produces a polished sound signature that is suitable for shared spaces. The Polaris Purple switch is also described as mild, offering a more gentle typing experience, and as polished, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, both the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch offer their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Gold Red switch provides a buttery smooth typing experience with a thocky sound profile and a mild, silky feel. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple switch offers an exhilarating tactile typing experience with a snappy sound profile and a mild, polished feel. While they may differ in certain aspects, such as sound characteristics, they both have neutral attributes that make them suitable for a wide range of users and environments. Overall, if you are looking for a smooth and light typing experience, both switches can deliver similar results.
Conclusion
To sum up, when making a decision between the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, it ultimately depends on the typing experience you prefer. If you value a smooth and light-medium typing experience, the Gold Red switch is the way to go. With its buttery smooth feel and moderate resistance, it provides a comfortable typing experience without being too ostentatious. The sound profile of the Gold Red switch is described as thocky, low-pitched, and neutral, offering a deep and satisfying sound without being too loud or high-pitched.
On the other hand, if you enjoy a more exhilarating tactile feedback, the Polaris Purple switch is the better choice. Its large tactile bump provides a thrilling typing experience, and the sound profile is described as neutral, ensuring a moderate sound that is suitable for various settings. Additionally, the Polaris Purple switch offers a mild and polished feel, making typing smooth and refined. The reduced friction and smooth key travel enhance the overall typing experience.
Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing experience. Whether you prioritize a light and smooth feel or a more tactile and exhilarating feedback, both the TTC Gold Red and SP-Star Polaris Purple switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your overall typing satisfaction.
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