Gazzew LT vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the Gazzew LT and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there is a wide range of options available, each with its own unique characteristics. Two switches that stand out are the Gazzew LT and the SP-Star Polaris Purple. The Gazzew LT is a linear switch known for its enticing lilac hue and auditory symphony of deep, resonant thockiness. Typing on these switches offers a seamless glide with every keystroke. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple is a tactile switch that provides an exhilarating typing experience with its big tactile bump. The sound profile of the Polaris Purple is snappy and satisfying. While the Gazzew LT offers a bassy and thocky typing experience, the Polaris Purple provides a polished and mild tactile sensation. 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
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Gazzew LT and the SP-Star Polaris Purple differ in their housing materials, resulting in distinct sound profiles. The LT utilizes a proprietary Gazzew blend for its top housing, known as "boba plastic," which imparts a softness that delivers a rich and deep sound. In contrast, the Polaris Purple incorporates a polycarbonate top housing, which leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The LT's Gazzew blend top housing produces a more mellow and rounded sound, whereas the Polaris Purple's polycarbonate top housing produces a more vibrant and precise sound. This distinction in sound characteristics may appeal to different preferences and typing styles.
Similarly, when comparing the bottom housings of the Gazzew LT and the SP-Star Polaris Purple, the choice of materials affects the overall sound profile. The Gazzew LT utilizes its proprietary boba plastic blend for the bottom housing, resulting in a rich and deep sound resonance due to its softness. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple incorporates a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While the LT's boba plastic bottom housing creates a more subdued and cushioned sound, the Polaris Purple's polycarbonate bottom housing offers a more distinct and defined sound. These differences in sound characteristics between the two switches may be particularly noticeable during typing or gaming sessions.
Although the top and bottom housings of the Gazzew LT and the SP-Star Polaris Purple have different materials, their impact on typing and sound experience can be similar. When pressing down the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing come into play, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Both switches' bottom housings, whether the LT's boba plastic blend or the Polaris Purple's polycarbonate, contribute to a responsive and tactile experience during key presses. Conversely, when releasing a key, the sound is more influenced by the material of the top housing. The LT's Gazzew blend and the Polaris Purple's polycarbonate, with their respective sound profiles, shape the sound produced upon key release. Thus, while there are material differences, both switches offer an engaging and dynamic typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gazzew LT linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, the information provided shows that both switches have an unknown actuation force. However, the Gazzew LT has a bottom out force of 65 grams, which is considered medium-heavy, while the Polaris Purple has a slightly higher bottom out force of 67 grams, also falling in the medium-heavy category.
Considering the weight of the switches is an important factor to take into account. Those who prefer a lighter switch may find it more comfortable for extended periods of typing or long gaming sessions. This is beneficial for individuals who require a keyboard for work or engage in lengthy gaming sessions. On the contrary, individuals who seek a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may opt for switches with heavier forces.
Given the limited information on the actuation force, it is unclear how these switches would differ in that aspect. However, it can be concluded that both the Gazzew LT linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch have similar bottom out forces, with the Polaris Purple being slightly heavier at 67 grams. Therefore, those seeking a medium-heavy typing experience would achieve similar results with either switch.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gazzew LT linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, it is clear that the Polaris Purple has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the LT has a shorter travel distance of 3.2 mm. The Polaris Purple aligns more with the traditional travel distance of 4.0 mm, providing a deeper and more substantial feeling when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the LT offers a shorter travel distance, which is often preferred by gamers seeking faster response times. Shorter travel distances can provide a more responsive and quicker typing experience. However, those who enjoy a more hearty depth may find the longer travel distance of the Polaris Purple to be more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
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 Gazzew LT comes in at $6.50 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
The Gazzew LT linear switches are best known for their enticing lilac hue and the auditory symphony of deep, resonant thockiness they produce. These switches offer a bassy sound profile, characterized by a lower frequency range that resembles the depth and richness associated with bass tones. The sound can be described as thocky, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. Additionally, the LT switches provide a seamless glide with every keystroke. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switches are known for their big tactile bump, which provides an exhilarating tactile typing experience. The sound profile of these switches is described as snappy. While the LT switches offer a bassy and thocky sound, the Polaris Purple switches have a more neutral sound profile. In terms of feel, the LT switches do not have any specific descriptors provided. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple switches are described as mild, offering a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. They are also polished, resulting in a smooth and refined finish and smooth key travel.
Based on the information provided, the Gazzew LT linear switches and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switches offer different subjective qualities. The LT switches provide a deep, resonant thockiness with a bassy sound profile, while the Polaris Purple switches offer a satisfying tactile typing experience with a snappy sound profile. The LT switches offer a seamless glide with every keystroke, but there is no specific information provided about the feel of these switches. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple switches offer a mild and approachable typing experience, with a polished finish that results in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Overall, these switches provide unique sound and feel experiences, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also dependent on other factors such as the choice of board and keycaps.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are someone who appreciates a deep and resonant sound profile, the Gazzew LT linear switch with its lilac hue and auditory symphony of thockiness would be an excellent choice for you. The seamless glide provided by the LTs adds to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a more exhilarating tactile typing experience with a snappy sound profile, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch would be more suitable. With its big tactile bump, typing on the Polaris Purples offers a satisfying feedback.
In terms of sound, the LTs have a bassy, thocky, and low-pitched profile, providing a deep and rich sound during key presses. On the other hand, the Polaris Purples have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various purposes and preferences.
Moving on to the feel, the LTs' description is not provided, but the Polaris Purples are described as mild and polished. This means that they offer a gentle typing experience with a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the Gazzew LT linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch depends on your personal preferences for sound and feel. Whether you prioritize a deep thockiness or an exhilarating tactile bump, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience. In the end, it is important to consider what feels most comfortable and enjoyable to you as you embark on your mechanical keyboard journey.