KTT Laurel vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the KTT Laurel 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 that stand out are the KTT Laurel and the SP-Star Polaris Purple. The Laurel is a linear switch, while the Polaris Purple is a tactile switch. The Laurel is known for its medium-light weight and linear design, offering a balance between responsiveness and comfort. It features a POM housing, short travel, and a long pole design. When using the Laurel, you can expect a subtly low-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple stands out for its exhilarating tactile typing experience. It provides a big tactile bump that adds excitement to each keystroke. The sound profile of the Polaris Purple is described as snappy. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.80 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
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22m spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The KTT Laurel and the SP-Star Polaris Purple differ in the materials used for their top and bottom housings. The Laurel features a POM top housing, while the Polaris Purple uses a polycarbonate top housing. In terms of sound profile, the POM housing of the Laurel creates a deeper and more muted sound, providing a unique auditory experience. Conversely, the polycarbonate top housing of the Polaris Purple produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound due to its stiffer nature. Additionally, the translucent property of polycarbonate makes it ideal for RGB lighting if that's a feature you desire.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Laurel and the Polaris Purple also utilize different materials. The Laurel incorporates a POM bottom housing, resulting in a similar sound profile to its top housing—deep and somewhat muted. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a sharper and more resonant sound. As mentioned earlier, the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of a switch, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key.
While the Laurel's top and bottom housings share the same material, providing a consistent sound profile throughout, the Polaris Purple features different materials for its top and bottom housings. This means that the sound characteristics of the Polaris Purple will be divided between the two components. Overall, the polycarbonate material in both the top and bottom housings of the Polaris Purple will deliver a sharper and crisper sound, compared to the muted and deeper sound profile of the POM material used in both housings of the Laurel.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Laurel linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, there are clear differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Laurel has a relatively light actuation force of 43 grams, making it easy to trigger a keystroke with minimal effort. Its bottom out force of 50 grams, although slightly heavier, still falls within the light range.
On the other hand, the Polaris Purple switch's actuation force is unknown. However, its bottom out force of 67 grams indicates a medium-heavy feel, providing a more substantial typing experience.
For those who prefer a lighter switch, the Laurel would be more suitable as it offers both a lighter actuation and bottom out force. This can be advantageous for prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming sessions where finger fatigue needs to be minimized.
In contrast, individuals seeking a more pronounced and forceful keypress may opt for the Polaris Purple switch. Its heavier bottom out force would provide a stronger push feel, offering a tactile feedback that some users find satisfying during their typing experience.
It is worth noting that if both switches have the same actuation force or bottom out force (which is not the case here), the results in terms of typing experience would be similar in terms of force required. However, in this specific comparison, the Laurel switch is lighter in both actuation and bottom out force, while the Polaris Purple switch leans towards the medium-heavy range for bottom out force.
Travel distance
The KTT Laurel linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Polaris Purple being slightly longer. Shorter travel distances are becoming increasingly popular among gamers who prioritize faster response times. For those seeking a more responsive typing experience, the Laurel would be the preferred choice. However, individuals who prefer a deeper, more substantial key press may find the longer travel distance of the Polaris Purple to be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preferences regarding typing experience and desired responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Laurel has an MSRP of $4.42 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Laurel for $3.95.
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 KTT Laurel linear switch has a subtly low-pitched sound profile. This means that it produces a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch has a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate sound that is suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Laurel linear switch is described as snappy. This means that it is super responsive and provides a typing experience that feels more alive. This is likely due to longer or dual-staged springs in the switch design. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch is described as mild. This means that it offers a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. It falls in a safe, middle-ground zone, making it approachable for most users. Additionally, the Polaris Purple switch is also described as polished, which means it has a smooth and refined finish. This results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing experience.
Taking all the available information into account, the KTT Laurel linear switch is best known for its medium-light linear feel, snappy responsiveness, and subtly low-pitched sound profile. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch is renowned for its exhilarating tactile typing experience, mild and polished feel, and neutral sound profile. While the Laurel switch provides a linear experience and the Polaris Purple offers a tactile experience, both switches offer their own unique qualities that can cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences in terms of typing experience and sound profile.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-light linear switch that offers a balance of responsiveness and comfort, the KTT Laurel is the switch for you. With its full POM housing, short travel, and long pole design, it provides a satisfying typing experience. The Laurel also has a subtly low-pitched sound profile, adding to its overall appeal.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more exhilarating tactile typing experience, the SP-Star Polaris Purple is the switch to go for. Its big tactile bump provides a noticeable and satisfying feedback while typing. The Polaris Purple also has a snappy sound profile, adding to the overall tactile experience.
In terms of force, the Laurel has a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter switch. Meanwhile, the Polaris Purple has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it slightly heavier. Consider your preferred typing force and choose accordingly.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Laurel and the SP-Star Polaris Purple depends on your personal preferences. If you prioritize a smoother and more linear typing experience with a lower-pitched sound profile, go for the Laurel. However, if you enjoy a more tactile typing experience with a snappier sound profile, the Polaris Purple is the switch for you.
In the end, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. Weigh your priorities and choose the switch that aligns with your desired typing experience. Happy typing!
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