Gateron Mars vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mars and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the decision often comes down to the tactile feel and auditory feedback that each type offers, and this is where the Gateron Mars and SP-Star Polaris Purple come into play. The Gateron Mars, recognized for its innovative linear design, combines a POK stem with a housing made from a blend of Nylon and POM, providing a smooth keypress without any tactile bump. This makes it an excellent choice for gamers or typists seeking swift, uninterrupted keystrokes, where speed and fluidity are paramount. In contrast, the SP-Star Polaris Purple offers a distinct tactile experience, highlighted by a pronounced bump that contributes to an exhilarating typing experience; its snappy sound profile adds an engaging auditory element to each keypress. While the Mars is preferred for those who value a seamless and rapid input, the Polaris Purple appeals to individuals who enjoy the feedback and satisfaction of a tactile switch. 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Gateron Mars and SP-Star Polaris Purple switches display notable differences in their housing materials, which influence the overall sound profile and aesthetic qualities of the switches. The Gateron Mars utilizes a nylon top housing, known for its softer plastic characteristics. This material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound when typing, as it absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. In contrast, the Polaris Purple features a polycarbonate top housing, which offers a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer composition. This distinction serves as a crucial factor for users who prioritize either a warm, muted acoustic experience or a brighter, more resonant typing sound, highlighting the engraved differences between the two switch offerings.
Looking at the bottom housing, the differences between these two switches become even more pronounced. The Gateron Mars has a POM bottom housing, recognized for its ability to produce a muted and pleasant sound that leans toward the deeper end of the spectrum. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to an elevated sound quality that is clearer and more resonant. Here, users may prefer the Gateron Mars if they desire a more subdued typing experience, while the Polaris purple calls to those looking for a more pronounced acoustics. The contrast between the POM and polycarbonate materials sets the stage for distinct auditory feedback and tactile sensations during typing.
Ultimately, the combination of the different housing materials in each switch creates a unique tactile and auditory experience. Notably, the varying characteristics of the top and bottom housings affect the overall feel and sound during use. While the Gateron Mars ties its deeper sound and softer feel to the nylon top and POM bottom, the SP-Star Polaris Purple blends the sharper, more resonant qualities inherent in polycarbonate for both components. Thus, users choosing between these two switches must consider their priorities in acoustic preferences and typing sensations, fully aware of how the materials intertwined in each component shape the overall switch experience.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Mars linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, we find distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Gateron Mars has a specified actuation force of 45 grams but lacks information on its bottom out force. In contrast, the Polaris Purple does not have a stated actuation force but features a bottom out force of 67 grams, categorized as medium-heavy. This indicates that the Polaris Purple requires more force to fully depress than the Mars does to trigger a keystroke, making the Mars a lighter switch. Consequently, users who prefer lighter switches for prolonged typing sessions or gaming may favor the Gateron Mars, while those seeking a more substantial feel might gravitate towards the heavier Polaris Purple. If the actuation force of the Polaris Purple were known and found to be equivalent to the Mars, users would experience similar actuation feedback, but until then, the differences in bottom out force underscore a clear preference based on one's typing style and comfort.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Gateron Mars linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, it's clear that they cater to different preferences in key feel and responsiveness. The Gateron Mars features a travel distance of 3.6 mm, which is shorter than the Polaris Purple's travel distance of 4.0 mm. This indicates that the Mars switch is designed for users who favor quicker key presses and more responsive feedback, making it an appealing choice for gamers seeking fast response times. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple, with its longer travel distance, offers a more substantial depth that some users may find pleasure in, as it avoids the abrupt feel that shorter travel distances can create. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for responsiveness versus key depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Mars has an MSRP of $6.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Mars for $5.50.
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 Gateron Mars linear switch has an unknown sound profile, which suggests it could be relatively quieter or more muted, typical of linear switches that focus on smooth key presses without distinct auditory feedback. In contrast, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch has a neutral sound profile, characterized by a moderate sound level. This makes the Polaris Purple versatile and suitable for various environments, whether at home or in a more professional setting. However, it’s essential to remember that the auditory experience can also vary depending on factors such as the keyboard construction and keycap material.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Mars is not specifically described, leaving its tactile experience open to interpretation. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple offers a mild tactile feedback, making for a gentle typing experience, which is complemented by its polished nature. The smooth and refined finish of the Polaris Purple helps reduce friction and creates a sleek key travel that enhances comfort and performance during prolonged typing sessions.
Considering all these qualities, the Gateron Mars and SP-Star Polaris Purple switches cater to different preferences but can lead to satisfying typing experiences in their respective realms. While the Mars switch remains more of a mystery regarding its tactile feedback and sound, the Polaris Purple stands out for its tactile bump and polished performance, appealing to users who enjoy a more defined yet approachable typing experience. Ultimately, selecting between them would depend on whether one prioritizes the smoothness of a linear switch or the tactile engagement of a well-rounded tactile switch.
Conclusion
To conclude, when deciding between the Gateron Mars linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, your choice ultimately depends on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound signature. If you prioritize a smooth, linear experience without distractions, the Mars switch may be ideal for your needs, especially if you're after a swift and frictionless key press, suitable for fast-paced gaming or typing with minimal resistance. However, if you enjoy a pronounced tactile feedback and a more engaging typing experience, the Polaris Purple is your best bet. With its medium-heavy actuation force and well-defined tactile bump, it offers a rewarding sensation that can make typing feel more dynamic and satisfying. Additionally, if sound matters to you, the neutral profile of the Polaris Purple will fit well in a variety of environments, making it suitable for both home and office use. In summary, consider your typing habits and environment to make the best choice: lean towards the Mars for smooth linear action, or opt for the Polaris Purple for a tactile experience that keeps you engaged.
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