HMX Jelly vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the HMX Jelly and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch that suits your typing style and preferences, the HMX Jelly and SP-Star Polaris Purple offer two distinct experiences. The HMX Jelly, a linear switch, is celebrated for its super smooth keystrokes and low-pitched, deep thocky sound signature, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a more fluid typing experience without any tactile interruption. With a lightweight actuation force of 42g, it can reduce finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. In contrast, the SP-Star Polaris Purple is a tactile switch designed to deliver an exhilarating and engaging typing experience through its pronounced tactile bump. This switch features a snappy sound profile, providing satisfying auditory feedback that many typists appreciate, especially when seeking a sense of precision in their keystrokes. While each switch has its unique advantages—smooth operation for the Jelly and a tactile, responsive touch for the Polaris Purple—your final choice will depend on your individual preferences and typing habits. 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
42g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
48g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
T2
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
22mm extended single-stage spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Jelly and the SP-Star Polaris Purple, a distinct contrast emerges between the nylon and polycarbonate used in their constructions. The Jelly’s nylon top housing is known for its softer texture, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. This characteristic results from nylon's sound-absorbing capabilities, allowing it to create a duller and rounder sound that many enthusiasts appreciate for its warmth. In contrast, the Polaris Purple employs a polycarbonate top housing, which is a stiffer material known for producing a sharper, crisper sound profile. This difference in material properties not only affects the auditory experience but also the overall typing feel, with the Jelly favoring softer acoustic reactions while the Polaris Purple delivers a more vibrant sound.
Examining the bottom housings reveals a similar divergence, bolstering the overall contrast in sound and feel between these two switches. The Jelly’s nylon bottom housing maintains the signature warmth associated with the top housing, ensuring a consistent sound profile across the switch. This cohesion yields those deep sound characteristics that typists often seek. Conversely, the Polaris Purple's polycarbonate bottom housing enhances the sharper auditory feedback registered when a key is pressed, making for a brighter experience. As the bottom housing significantly influences the bottom-out sound and feel, this choice reinforces the strikingly different auditory experiences provided by both models, with the Jelly leaning towards a cozy and understated response, while the Polaris shines with clarity and resonance.
In terms of resulting performance, neither switch is inherently better, but they cater to different preferences. For users who enjoy a muted, softer typing experience, the HMX Jelly’s nylon materials provide a rich, enveloping sound that aligns with that aesthetic. Alternatively, typists who favor a pronounced and vibrant feedback will find the SP-Star Polaris Purple's polycarbonate housing more satisfying. If one were to use both switches in conjunction with RGB lighting, the transparency of the polycarbonate would offer more pronounced visuals, enhancing the overall aesthetic experience with a striking light show. Therefore, while the intrinsic properties of both nylon and polycarbonate contribute different qualities to the output, users can select based on personal preferences and priorities.
Weight
When comparing the HMX Jelly linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Jelly switch has a relatively light actuation force of 42 grams and a bottom out force of 48 grams, making it ideal for users who prefer a lighter touch and the ability to type for extended periods without fatigue. In contrast, the Polaris Purple switch has an unspecified actuation force but a significantly heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, suggesting a firmer resistance that may appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. Consequently, while the Jelly is lighter, promoting comfort during long sessions, the Polaris Purple's heavier design caters to those who prefer a stronger push feel. Overall, those looking for a lighter option would benefit from the Jelly, while the Polaris Purple would be more suitable for enthusiasts who favor a medium-heavy switch feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Jelly linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, a clear distinction emerges: the Jelly features a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the Polaris Purple has a 4 mm travel distance. This means that the Polaris Purple offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may be appreciated by users who prefer a more pronounced, tactile feel when pressing a key. On the other hand, the HMX Jelly, with its shorter 3.8 mm travel distance, is ideal for those who prioritize responsiveness, making it a suitable choice for gamers looking for faster actuation. Therefore, while the difference may seem modest, the choice between these two switches ultimately depends on user preference for key depth versus rapid response.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Jelly has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jelly for $2.99.
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 HMX Jelly linear switch produces a low-pitched, deep, thocky sound signature that many users find satisfying and mature. This heavy thock gives the Jelly a richer audio profile that can feel quite immersive during typing sessions. In contrast, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch generates a sound that's more snappy, which offers a crisper auditory feedback with each keystroke. While both switches offer distinct auditory experiences, the Jelly’s deep, thocky sound contrasts with the snappiness of the Polaris Purple. However, keep in mind that the final sound will depend on additional factors like the keyboard type and keycap materials used.
When it comes to feel, the Jelly switch is noted for its super smooth action, which is enhanced by its excellent factory lubrication and a lightweight actuation force of 42g. This smoothness provides an effortlessly fluid typing experience, making it appealing for prolonged usage. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple offers a more tactile experience with its pronounced bump, delivering an exhilarating feedback that many typists enjoy. The Polaris switches are also characterized as mild and polished, providing a gentle yet refined typing experience with less friction. While the Jelly offers pure smoothness, the Polaris Purple invites a harsher tactile response that might feel more engaging to those who appreciate feedback while typing.
Overall, choosing between the HMX Jelly linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch boils down to personal preference in both sound and feel. If you favor a deeply resonant sound and a smooth keystroke, the Jelly is likely your best bet. However, if you thrive on tactile feedback and a snappy sound profile that keeps you alert while typing, the Polaris Purple would serve you well. Both switches cater to different typing styles, ensuring that regardless of which one you choose, you will find a unique and enjoyable experience tailored to your needs.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX Jelly linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch ultimately hinges on your personal typing preferences and intended usage. If you prioritize a smooth, lightweight experience with a pleasingly low-pitched sound, the HMX Jelly is your go-to option. Its lower actuation force of 42 grams and lighter bottom-out force of 48 grams make it ideal for fast typing or gaming sessions where speed and finesse are key. On the other hand, if you enjoy a pronounced tactile feedback and don’t mind a heavier action, the Polaris Purple switch is perfect for you. With its more robust feel, bottom-out force of 67 grams, and snappy sound profile, this switch provides an exhilarating tactile experience that could enhance your productivity in typing tasks, especially if you appreciate feedback with each keypress. Ultimately, aligning your choice with your typing style—whether you favor the smoothness and quietness of the Jelly or the tactile and audible feedback of the Polaris Purple—will lead you to the right switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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