HMX KD200 vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the HMX KD200 and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, switch selection can significantly impact your typing experience, and two popular options are the HMX KD200 and the SP-Star Polaris Purple. The HMX KD200, a linear switch, is renowned for being the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, which delivers swift, smooth key presses ideal for gamers and typists seeking rapid responsiveness without tactile feedback. In contrast, the SP-Star Polaris Purple features a pronounced tactile bump that provides an exhilarating typing experience, paired with a snappy sound profile that appeals to those who enjoy auditory feedback during their keystrokes. While the KD200 excels in offering a seamless and quiet experience, the Polaris Purple caters to users who appreciate the tactile sensation and auditory cues of each keystroke. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Ly
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 single-stage spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX KD200 and the SP-Star Polaris Purple, distinct differences emerge, particularly in the top housing materials. The KD200 utilizes nylon for its top housing, which is known for its softer characteristics that contribute to a deeper, fuller sound profile during typing. This softness allows nylon to absorb more vibrations, leading to a quieter, more muffled sound. In contrast, the Polaris Purple incorporates polycarbonate as its top housing material, resulting in a sharper, crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate not only enhances resonance but also permits a clearer transmission of sound, making each keystroke more pronounced. Thus, while both switches produce satisfying auditory feedback, the KD200's nylon housing delivers a rounder sound, whereas the Polaris Purple's polycarbonate housing creates a more vibrant auditory experience.
Examining the bottom housings reveals a similar divergence in materials, with the KD200 again opting for nylon and the Polaris Purple featuring polycarbonate. Once more, the use of nylon in the bottom housing of the KD200 provides a deeper sound, contributing to a fuller key feel and bottom-out experience. Conversely, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Polaris Purple offers a more defined and resonant sound, enhancing the overall clarity of the switch's keystrokes. This contrasting material choice means that the auditory experience at the key's bottom-out is distinct between the two switches, emphasizing either a duller thud with the KD200 or a sharper click with the Polaris Purple. Consequently, both switches result in varied auditory profiles throughout their operation based on the differing properties of their bottom housing materials.
Ultimately, the combination of the distinct top and bottom materials in both the KD200 and the Polaris Purple leads to unique sound characteristics that define the overall typing experience. For a user seeking softer, more muted responses, the KD200 may provide a wholly satisfying match with its nylon construction. Alternatively, those who prioritize clarity and resonance in their keystrokes may prefer the distinct sound offered by the Polaris Purple's polycarbonate. Even with differences in materials, both switches possess complementary elements that culminate in unique, satisfying typing experiences. The influence of the respective housings on the key press and release sounds highlights how critical material choice is in shaping auditory feedback in mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the HMX KD200 linear switch to the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The KD200 features a relatively light actuation force of 45 grams, paired with a bottom out force of 50 grams. This combination makes it an excellent choice for those who prioritize longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Polaris Purple has an unknown actuation force but boasts a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, indicating a more substantial feel when pressing the key all the way down. While the actuation force of the Polaris Purple is unspecified, its overall heavier bottom out force suggests that it may offer a more tactile and deliberate typing experience for users who prefer a stronger feedback. Therefore, the HMX KD200 is the lighter switch, ideal for extended use, while the Polaris Purple caters to those who enjoy a firmer touch in their typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the HMX KD200 linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, there's a notable difference. The KD200 features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Polaris Purple has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the KD200 the shorter option, which can enhance responsiveness and provide quicker key presses that gamers might appreciate. On the other hand, the longer 4 mm travel distance of the Polaris Purple may offer a more satisfying, deeper feel for those who prefer a robust typing experience. Thus, your choice between these switches will depend on whether you prioritize faster response times or a more substantial tactile feedback during your key presses.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX KD200 has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the KD200 for $3.29.
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
When it comes to sound, the HMX KD200 linear switch is characterized as the clackiest member of the HMX Film switch family, likely delivering a loud and sharp auditory feedback that can be quite engaging. In contrast, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch features a more neutral sound profile. This means it strikes a balance, producing a moderate sound that is suitable for both casual and professional environments. While the KD200's clackiness may appeal to those who enjoy a more vibrant auditory experience, the Polaris Purple offers a snappier sound that avoids overwhelming noise, making it versatile for various settings.
Regarding feel, the KD200 is best described as providing a linear switch experience; this means its actuation is smooth without any tactile bump, allowing for uninterrupted keystrokes. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple tactile switch offers a big tactile bump that delivers an exhilarating typing experience, giving you that satisfying feedback with each press. Additionally, it is described as mild and polished, ensuring a gentle and refined typing experience that minimizes friction and enhances smooth key travel. Therefore, while the KD200 may cater to those who prefer a continuously smooth action, the Polaris Purple will resonate more with individuals who appreciate tactile sensations during typing.
In conclusion, the HMX KD200 and SP-Star Polaris Purple switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The KD200's clackiness creates an engaging auditory environment, while the Polaris Purple’s neutral sound and pronounced tactile feedback offer a more balanced and enjoyable typing experience. Ultimately, your choice would depend on whether you prioritize a loud and linear typing experience or a tactile and polished feel with moderate sound. Each switch presents unique attributes suitable for their respective audiences, and understanding these qualities can guide newcomers in selecting the right switch for their needs.
Conclusion
To conclude, the choice between the HMX KD200 linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch largely depends on your personal preferences and intended use. If you enjoy a quieter, smoother, and more engaging typing experience, the KD200 is an excellent option, especially if you favor a lighter actuation force of 50 grams that enables rapid key presses. Its clacky sound profile makes it particularly satisfying for those who appreciate auditory feedback, making it ideal for gaming or casual typing where nimbleness is crucial. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile feedback and a robust sensation while typing, the Polaris Purple is the way to go. Its 67-gram actuation force may feel more substantial, making it suitable for users who enjoy a solid, deliberate typing experience. The pronounced tactile bump and snappy sound add to the overall enjoyment, making it a fantastic choice for coding, writing, or any activity necessitating accuracy and a bit of resistance. Ultimately, consider what aspects matter most to you in a keyboard switch—whether it's the light and clacky feel of a linear switch or the deliberate and tactile feedback of a medium-heavy switch—so you can select the one that enhances your typing experience the most.
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