Durock Light Tactile vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the Durock Light Tactile 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, two popular options to consider are the Durock Light Tactile and the SP-Star Polaris Purple. The Light Tactile switch from Durock stands out for its gentle tactility, offering a welcome contrast to the sharper tactile switches commonly found in the market. Typing on the Light Tactile switch provides an angelic tactility complemented by a jelly-like sound signature. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple switch is well-known for its big tactile bump, promising an exhilarating typing experience. The sound profile of the Polaris Purple switch is described as snappy. Both switches are categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences and typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
52g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Light Tactile and the SP-Star Polaris Purple have several similarities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which allows for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. Therefore, both switches will provide similar sound profiles and aesthetic benefits when it comes to their top housing.
However, the differences lie in the bottom housing materials. The Light Tactile features a nylon bottom housing, while the Polaris Purple uses polycarbonate for its bottom housing. Typing on the Light Tactile, with its nylon bottom housing, will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Polaris Purple will contribute to a sharper and crisper sound, thanks to its stiffness. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key.
Overall, while the top housing of both switches provides similar benefits in terms of sound and aesthetics, the differences in their bottom housing materials lead to distinctive sound profiles. The Durock Light Tactile's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, while the SP-Star Polaris Purple's polycarbonate bottom housing offers a sharper and crisper sound. Depending on the desired sound experience, users can choose between the two switches accordingly.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. In terms of weight, the Light Tactile switch is considered the lighter option with an actuation force of 52 grams, while the Polaris Purple switch's actuation force is unknown. However, both switches have a bottom out force of 67 grams, which indicates a medium-heavy typing experience for both options.
Considering weight preferences, individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Light Tactile switch more suitable. The lighter actuation force can allow for longer typing sessions without causing added strain or fatigue. This makes it ideal for those who use their keyboard extensively, whether it be for work or extended gaming sessions.
On the other hand, some users may prefer a heavier actuation force to provide a more substantial typing feel. Although the actuation force for the Polaris Purple switch is unspecified, its shared bottom out force of 67 grams suggests a similar level of heaviness to the Light Tactile switch. Therefore, for individuals seeking a stronger push and a more tactile typing experience, both options may yield similar results.
In summary, the Light Tactile switch is the lighter of the two options, with its actuation force known to be 52 grams. The Polaris Purple switch's actuation force remains unknown. However, both switches have a bottom out force of 67 grams, indicating a medium-heavy typing experience. The choice between the two switches ultimately depends on personal preferences and the desired typing feel for the user.
Travel distance
The Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch have an equal travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches offer a consistent typing experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. This means that when you press down on a key, you will feel the same travel distance with either switch. Therefore, whether you choose the Durock Light Tactile or the SP-Star Polaris Purple, you can expect similar results in terms of the travel distance for a satisfying typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Light Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Tactile for $4.25.
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
The Durock Light Tactile switch is highly regarded for its gentle tactility, offering a pleasing contrast to sharper tactile switches commonly found on the market. Typing on these switches provides an angelic tactility sensation while producing a jelly-like sound signature. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple switch boasts a bold tactile bump, resulting in an exhilarating tactile typing experience. The sound profile of the Polaris Purple is described as snappy. It's important to note that the sound produced by a switch heavily depends on factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps.
In terms of sound, both the Light Tactile and Polaris Purple switches are described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that they possess a moderate actuation force requirement and produce moderate sound levels. These switches are suitable for a wide range of users, whether beginners or advanced, and can be used in various environments such as home or work. However, it's worth mentioning that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycap selection.
In terms of feel, both the Light Tactile and Polaris Purple switches offer a mild typing experience. This means that they provide a gentler feel compared to switches with more pronounced tactile characteristics. The sound and feel of these switches are approachable to most users, as they fall within a safe, middle-ground range. Additionally, both switches are described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish. This leads to reduced friction, resulting in a sleek typing experience with smooth key travel. The polished feature may be attributed to the materials used or factory lubing.
Based on the available information, both the Durock Light Tactile and SP-Star Polaris Purple switches offer desirable subjective qualities. The Light Tactile switch stands out for its gentle tactility and jelly-like sound signature, while the Polaris Purple switch provides an exhilarating typing experience with a snappy sound profile. Although the sound profile and feel of these switches are described as similar, it's important to consider individual preferences and factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used. Overall, both switches are solid options for those seeking a pleasant typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both the Durock Light Tactile and SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switches offer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, making them suitable for most intents and purposes. However, there are some key differences to consider.
The Durock Light Tactile switch is best known for its super gentle tactility, providing a unique and pleasant typing experience. The tactile bump is less pronounced compared to other switches in the market, resulting in a smoother and more angelic feel. Additionally, the sound profile of the Light Tactile switch is neutral, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users, whether you'll be using them at home or work.
On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple switch offers a more exhilarating tactile typing experience with a big tactile bump. The sound profile of the Polaris Purple switch is described as snappy, adding an extra level of satisfaction to each keystroke.
Both switches also share similar characteristics in terms of feel. They are both mild switches, providing a gentle typing experience that most people will find approachable. Additionally, both switches have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Durock Light Tactile and SP-Star Polaris Purple switches depends on your preferences. If you prefer a super gentle and angelic tactility with a jelly-like sound signature, the Light Tactile would be a great option for you. However, if you're looking for a more exhilarating tactile typing experience with a snappy sound profile, the Polaris Purple would be a better fit. Consider the characteristics and choose the switch that aligns with your typing preferences and desired sound profile. Happy typing!
Mentioned in this article
