TKC Kiwi vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the TKC Kiwi and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The TKC Kiwi and the SP-Star Polaris Purple are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct characteristics for users to consider. The Kiwi is a tactile switch that is designed to enhance typing experiences by providing a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press. Its satisfyingly snappy sound profile adds to the immersive typing experience it delivers. Additionally, the Kiwi comes lightly factory lubed, ensuring a smooth and effortless typing experience right out of the box. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple also offers a tactile typing experience, but with a big tactile bump that provides an exhilarating sensation. Its sound profile is also described as snappy. While both switches offer unique tactile features, they differ in their specific characteristics. The Kiwi falls under categories such as 'Stepped', 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Accented', and 'Polished', while the Polaris Purple is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. These brief descriptions provide an initial understanding of the two switches, 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
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
N/A
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
UHWMPE
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold coated spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TKC Kiwi and the SP-Star Polaris Purple differ in terms of their composition. The Kiwi features a UHWMPE (Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene) top and bottom housing, while the Polaris Purple utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housing. Despite these differences, both switches aim to provide a unique sound signature. The UHWMPE materials in the Kiwi's housing contribute to a bright sound, resulting in resonant clacks when typing. On the other hand, the polycarbonate housing of the Polaris Purple creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, offering a higher-pitched tone.
Another factor to consider is the aesthetic appeal of the housing materials. While the Kiwi's UHWMPE top housing might lack translucency, the Polaris Purple's polycarbonate top housing is specially designed to allow the RGB lighting to shine through. This makes it more suitable if you plan to incorporate RGB lighting into your setup. Additionally, the clear housing of the Polaris Purple offers visual transparency, allowing users to observe the mechanical components inside the switch. However, enthusiasts seeking a switch with a less transparent and possibly more solid appearance may prefer the opaque UHWMPE housing of the Kiwi.
When it comes to the tactile experience, the bottom housing plays a significant role in determining the bottom-out sound and feel of a switch. In the case of the Kiwi, users can expect the UHWMPE bottom housing to contribute to the overall sound when pressing down on the switch. On the contrary, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Polaris Purple will influence the feedback and sound experienced during bottoming out. Regarding the sound when releasing a key, the top housing plays a more prominent role. Therefore, the UHWMPE top housing of the Kiwi and the polycarbonate top housing of the Polaris Purple will impact the sound produced when letting go of a key, potentially offering varying degrees of audibility and satisfaction.
In conclusion, while the TKC Kiwi and the SP-Star Polaris Purple housing materials differ, both switches aim to deliver distinctive sound profiles. The UHWMPE top and bottom housing of the Kiwi generate a bright and resonant sound, while the polycarbonate top and bottom housing of the Polaris Purple produce a sharper and crisper tone. The Polaris Purple's housing materials are particularly advantageous for those prioritizing RGB lighting, thanks to the translucent nature of polycarbonate. However, the choice between these switches may also depend on personal preferences regarding the visibility of mechanical components and the tactile feedback experienced during key presses.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TKC Kiwi tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, there are both similarities and differences. The actuation force of the Kiwi is 43 grams, while the actuation force of the Polaris Purple is currently unknown. However, both switches have a bottom out force of 67 grams, placing them in the medium-heavy range.
Considering weight, some individuals prefer a lighter switch to type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions. In this case, the Kiwi may be more suitable due to its actuation force of 43 grams. This lighter force allows for more prolonged typing without excessive strain. The Polaris Purple's actuation force is not specified, so it is uncertain if it provides a similar lightness.
On the other hand, some users prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. These individuals may opt for options with heavier forces. Despite lacking information on the actuation force, the Polaris Purple has the same bottom out force of 67 grams as the Kiwi. Therefore, for those seeking a heavier typing experience, both switches could potentially deliver similar results. Ultimately, the Kiwi is known to be lighter in terms of actuation force, while the Polaris Purple's actuation force remains undisclosed.
Travel distance
The TKC Kiwi and SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. Therefore, when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you can expect to feel a consistent travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches offer a satisfying tactile feedback and are ideal for those who enjoy a moderate key travel distance. Whether you choose the TKC Kiwi or the SP-Star Polaris Purple, you can be confident that you will experience a similar travel distance with each press.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The TKC Kiwi comes in at $8.00 per 10 switches.
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 TKC Kiwi tactile switch is best described as having a low-pitched sound profile. This means that the sound of these switches will typically have a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. The Polaris Purple, on the other hand, is also described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that the sound produced by these switches is moderate in both volume and tone. It is neither too loud nor too soft, making it suitable for most typing purposes. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the TKC Kiwi tactile switch provides a stepped and accented tactile typing experience. The switch has a two-stage feel, with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. This means that users will be able to feel a slight bump when pressing the keys, enhancing their typing experience. The tactility of these switches is described as "accented," which means that it provides a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming. Additionally, the Kiwi switches are polished, resulting in a smooth and refined finish. This smoothness, combined with factory lubing, ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In contrast, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch offers a mild tactile typing experience. These switches provide a more gentle feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The tactility is approachable and falls within a safe middle-ground zone. Similar to the Kiwi switches, the Polaris Purple switches are also polished, resulting in a sleek and smooth typing experience. With reduced friction and smooth key travel, users can expect effortless typing.
In conclusion, both the TKC Kiwi and SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Kiwi switches have a low-pitched sound profile, while the Polaris Purple switches have a neutral sound profile. In terms of feel, the Kiwi switches provide a stepped and accented tactile experience, while the Polaris Purple switches offer a mild tactile experience. Both switches are polished, ensuring smooth key travel. Overall, newcomers to mechanical keyboards can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch, with the choice depending on personal preference for sound and tactility.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch that enhances your typing experience with a medium to medium-strong bump at the top of each key press, the TKC Kiwi would be a great choice. These switches offer a satisfyingly snappy sound profile, delivering an immersive typing experience. Additionally, the Kiwi switches are lightly factory lubed, ensuring a smooth and effortless typing experience right out of the box. On the other hand, if you prefer a big tactile bump for an exhilarating typing experience, the SP-Star Polaris Purple would be a suitable option. These switches also have a snappy sound profile. Both switches have a bottom out force of 67 grams, which can be considered medium-heavy. However, the Kiwi switches are described as stepped and accented, providing a medium tactile experience with pre-travel and/or post-travel. The Polaris Purple switches, on the other hand, offer a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users. Both switches are polished, resulting in smooth and refined finishes, reducing friction and ensuring smooth key travel. Ultimately, the choice between the TKC Kiwi and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches depends on your preference for the level of tactile feedback and typing experience you desire.
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