SP-Star Meteor White vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor White and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a multitude of options to choose from, each offering a unique typing experience. Two popular switches worth considering are the SP-Star Meteor White and the SP-Star Polaris Purple. The Meteor White is a linear switch, best described as gentle and subdued. Its easy-to-push keys and soft pitter-patter sound profile make for a comfortable typing experience. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple is a tactile switch, known for its exhilarating typing experience with a big tactile bump. It offers a snappy sound profile. These switches may seem quite different at a glance, but both fall under the categories of 'Neutral' and 'Mild'. 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
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
57g
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
Nylon
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
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Meteor White and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches exhibit notable differences. The Meteor White features a nylon top housing, while the Polaris Purple boasts a polycarbonate top housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Conversely, the polycarbonate top housing of the Polaris Purple creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Apart from sound characteristics, the polycarbonate top housing's translucency makes it ideal for those planning to utilize RGB lighting, providing an aesthetically pleasing experience.
Regarding the bottom housing, the Meteor White utilizes nylon, while the Polaris Purple incorporates a polycarbonate bottom housing. Similar to the top housing, nylon creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its absorbent nature, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the polycarbonate bottom housing in the Polaris Purple generates a clearer and resonant sound profile as a result of its stiffness. Additionally, being transparent, the polycarbonate material enhances the visual appeal of the switch, especially when paired with RGB lighting.
When a switch features different top and bottom housings, their distinctive qualities impact various aspects of the typing experience. While pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing's characteristics come into play, which heavily influence the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the sound produced when releasing a key is mainly influenced by the qualities of the top housing. Therefore, with the Meteor White and Polaris Purple switches, users can experience a combination of the respective qualities of their nylon and polycarbonate top and bottom housings, creating a unique sound profile for each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. Firstly, the actuation force for both switches is unknown, so it is unclear how they compare in triggering a keystroke. However, it is known that the Meteor White has a bottom out force of 57 grams, indicating a medium-light resistance when pressing the keys fully. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy in terms of resistance.
Considering the weight of the switches is important for individuals who have specific preferences. Some users may prefer a lighter feel, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue, making it suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. In this case, the Meteor White, albeit with unknown actuation force, would be a potential choice due to its medium-light bottom out force. Conversely, those who desire a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may find the Polaris Purple to be a better option.
In summary, while information regarding actuation force is unavailable for both switches, the Meteor White is lighter in terms of bottom out force compared to the Polaris Purple which is medium-heavy. Consequently, individuals who prioritize lighter switches may find similar results with the Meteor White, while those who prefer heavier switches would gravitate towards the Polaris Purple.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch is the distance it travels from the top to the bottom, which is the sensation felt when a key is pressed. In the case of the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, both switches have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on either switch, you will experience the same travel distance of 4 mm. Therefore, the two switches provide a similar tactile experience in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Meteor White has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor White for $5.00.
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 subjective qualities of the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch can be compared in terms of sound and feel.
In terms of sound, the Meteor White switch can be described as having a neutral sound profile with a pitter-patter sound. This means that the sound produced is not too loud or too soft, making it suitable for various purposes and environments. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple switch also has a neutral sound profile, but it is described as snappy. This suggests that the sound produced by this switch is more pronounced and sharper compared to the Meteor White switch.
Moving on to feel, both the Meteor White and Polaris Purple switches are described as mild in terms of feel. This means that they offer a gentle typing experience without any extreme characteristics. The qualities of these switches are considered to be in a safe middle-ground zone, making them approachable to most users. Additionally, both switches are described as polished, indicating that they have 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, it is evident that the Meteor White and Polaris Purple switches have their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Meteor White offers a soft and pitter-patter sound, while the Polaris Purple provides a snappier sound. In terms of feel, both switches offer a mild and approachable typing experience with a polished finish for reduced friction. Overall, users can expect a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience with either of these switches. If a user prefers a softer sound and a more neutral feel, the Meteor White switch would be a suitable choice. However, if a user prefers a sharper sound and a more pronounced tactile feel, the Polaris Purple switch would be the preferred option.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a soft and gentle typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch is the way to go. It is easy to push and produces a gentle sound profile, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users. With its thocky sound description, it offers a deep and satisfying sound when pressed and released. Additionally, its mild and polished feel ensures a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more exhilarating tactile typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch is the right choice for you. Its big tactile bump provides a satisfying typing experience, and its sound profile is described as snappy. Like the Meteor White, it also offers a mild and polished feel, ensuring a comfortable typing experience.
Ultimately, the decision between the Meteor White and Polaris Purple switches comes down to personal preference. Consider your typing style, desired level of tactility, and sound preference to choose the switch that best suits your needs. Both switches offer reliable performance and a moderate actuation force requirement, making them suitable for various purposes, whether you're using them at home or at work.
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