Kailh BCP vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can profoundly affect your typing experience and overall satisfaction. The Kailh BCP (Black Cherry Pie) linear switch is celebrated for its creamy, elastic feel that offers a unique bouncy sensation with each keystroke. Users often appreciate its signature poppy and clacky sound profile, making it an exciting option for those who enjoy feedback in their typing without the clickiness typically associated with more tactile switches. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch stands out for its pronounced tactile bump, delivering a sensory experience that many find exhilarating. With a snappy sound profile, it caters to typists who thrive on the distinct feedback that tactile switches provide. While the BCP might be ideal for those who prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience, the Polaris Purple appeals to users looking for a more interactive touch. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Kailh BCP Linear

SP-Star Polaris Purple Tactile

$5.00

$4.75 per 10

$5.60

$5.00 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Kailh BCP and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches utilize distinct housing materials that significantly influence their overall sound profiles and tactile experiences. The BCP's nylon housings, both top and bottom, are known for their softer texture, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This quality is attributed to nylon's ability to absorb sound, leading to a more muted and rounded auditory experience when typing. In contrast, the Polaris Purple features polycarbonate housings, which are notably stiffer; this results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound. The rigidity of the polycarbonate allows for a clearer resonance, providing a more pronounced auditory feedback that many enthusiasts seek for a crisper typing experience.

Both switches exhibit advantages depending on user preferences. The BCP's nylon material provides a warm sound signature that many users favor for its richness and smooth typing feel. This is particularly beneficial for users seeking a quieter, more subdued operation, allowing for an immersive typing experience that feels less jarring on the ears. In contrast, the Polaris Purple's polycarbonate fittings create a lively and dynamic typing experience with a pronounced sound that brings clarity to each keystroke. That sharpness is especially appreciated by typists who want to clearly hear every action, which can enhance typing accuracy and satisfaction.

Despite the differences in material, there is a way to achieve surprisingly similar outcomes when considering personal preferences. For users who value RGB lighting, the clarity and translucence of the polycarbonate used in the Polaris Purple can heighten visual aesthetics, creating vibrant lighting effects. Meanwhile, the tight coupling of the nylon housings in the BCP still offers a good experience with reduced sound resonance, focusing more on the tactile feedback of the switches. Ultimately, while the underlying materials differ greatly, users can find their desired balance of sound and feel by choosing switches that reflect their typing style and aesthetic preferences.

Weight

When comparing the Kailh BCP linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, we can see that both options feature a medium-heavy feel, albeit with some notable differences in their specifications. The Kailh BCP has an actuation force of 52 grams, while the Polaris Purple does not have a specified actuation force listed. This suggests that users might experience different pressure sensitivities when engaging the keys. However, the Polaris Purple does have a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is slightly heavier than the BCP's bottom out force of 63.5 grams. As a result, while the BCP is the lighter option in terms of actuation force, both switches ultimately offer a robust typing experience, with the Polaris Purple feeling a bit firmer when fully pressed down. The choice between these switches will largely depend on personal preferences: users who favor a lighter actuation may lean toward the Kailh BCP, while those who prefer a more substantial bottoming out experience might find the Polaris Purple more appealing.

Travel distance

When comparing the Kailh BCP linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, a notable difference in travel distance emerges. The BCP has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Polaris Purple measures 4 mm. This makes the Kailh BCP the shorter travel option, which may appeal to those seeking quicker response times, particularly favored by gamers. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple, with its longer 4 mm travel distance, caters to users who prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback and depth in their keystrokes, which can create a more satisfying typing experience. Thus, if you value speed and responsiveness, the Kailh BCP would be the preferable choice, while the Polaris Purple is better suited for those who appreciate a more solid key press.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profile of the Kailh BCP linear switch is characterized by a poppy and clacky nature, which adds a vibrant auditory dimension to the typing experience. This distinctive sound makes it a delight to type on, particularly for those who enjoy a more lively acoustic environment. In contrast, the SP-Star Polaris Purple switch offers a more neutral sound profile that is generally moderate, making it versatile for various environments—be it at home or in the office. While the BCP's sound might appeal to those who appreciate a more dynamic auditory feedback, the Polaris Purple’s snappy yet balanced sound will sit comfortably for users who prefer a less intrusive typing noise.

When it comes to feel, the BCP switch stands out with its creamy, viscous, and elastic characteristics, providing a unique sense of bounce that makes each keystroke enjoyable. This creates a dynamic typing experience that is hard to replicate. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple switch is noted for its big tactile bump, which delivers an exhilarating tactile sensation while remaining approachable due to its mild characteristics. Additionally, the Polaris Purple is polished, indicating an overall smoothness that enhances the typing experience through reduced friction. Together, these qualities offer distinct yet pleasurable sensations, catering to different preferences.

In conclusion, while the Kailh BCP linear switch excels in its lively sound and uniquely bouncy feel, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch provides a more neutral sound profile combined with a prominent tactile bump and a polished experience. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference in sound and feel; if you want an engaging and vibrant experience, the BCP will likely satisfy you, while the Polaris Purple will offer a balanced and refined typing journey. Both switches promise a memorable typing experience, but cater to different tastes in sound and tactile feedback.

Conclusion

To conclude, the choice between Kailh BCP linear switches and SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switches ultimately hinges on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you thrive on a smoother typing experience combined with a unique sound profile that is both poppy and clacky, the BCP could be your ideal match. Its medium-heavy actuation force of 63.5 grams offers a satisfying resistance that can enhance your typing speed and responsiveness, making it particularly suitable for fast typists or gamers who prefer linear switches. On the other hand, if you’re drawn to a tactile sensation that provides clear feedback with a pronounced bump, the Polaris Purple is likely more aligned with your needs. Its slightly heavier actuation force of 67 grams and neutral sound profile make it a great choice for a balanced typing experience, whether at home or in a quieter office setting. Overall, assess how much you value smoothness versus tactile feedback in your keystrokes, as this will guide you in making the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh BCP Linear

$5.00

$4.75 per 10

Learn more

SP-Star Polaris Purple Tactile

$5.60

$5.00 per 10

Learn more