PH Studio Milk Tea vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the PH Studio Milk Tea and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch to the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, it's clear that they offer unique features catering to different preferences. The Milk Tea is praised for its high-pitched yet muted sound profile, making it ideal for those who value a balanced auditory experience during prolonged typing sessions. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple stands out for its exhilarating tactile bump, providing a snappy typing experience that appeals to those seeking a more pronounced tactile feel. While the Milk Tea is characterized by qualities like 'Clacky' and 'Silky', the Polaris Purple is described as 'Neutral' and 'Polished'. 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
37.5g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
43.5g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The PH Studio Milk Tea and the SP-Star Polaris Purple both utilize different materials for their top and bottom housing components, resulting in unique sound profiles for each switch. The Milk Tea features a POM top and bottom housing, which creates a deeper and more muted sound compared to the Polaris Purple's polycarbonate top and bottom housing. The polycarbonate material used in the Polaris Purple leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffer nature that enhances clarity and resonance. In terms of aesthetics, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for use in the top housing of switches that incorporate RGB lighting, giving it a visually appealing edge.
While the POM material in both the top and bottom housing of the Milk Tea contributes to a consistent deep and muted sound profile, the Polaris Purple's use of polycarbonate in both components results in a sharper and crisper overall sound. This difference in housing material demonstrates how the choice of plastic can significantly impact the acoustics of a switch, giving each switch its own unique auditory characteristics. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate further enhances the visual appeal of the Polaris Purple, especially when paired with RGB lighting to showcase the vibrant colors through the clear housing.
When examining the impact of housing materials on the overall experience of using a switch, it becomes evident that the top and bottom housings play distinct roles in determining the sound profile and feel of the switch. The qualities of the bottom housing, influenced by the material used, will affect the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing will influence the sound when a key is released. In the case of the Milk Tea and the Polaris Purple, the differences in materials for the top and bottom housing result in contrasting sound profiles that cater to different preferences for keyboard enthusiasts seeking varying levels of depth, clarity, and resonance in their typing experience.
Weight
The PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 37.5 grams compared to the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch which has an unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Milk Tea switch requires 43.5 grams, while the Polaris Purple switch has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams. This means that the Milk Tea switch is lighter overall, making it more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming marathons. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple switch provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier force, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force levels.
Travel distance
The PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Milk Tea offers a shorter distance, making it a preferred choice for those seeking faster response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple provides a slightly deeper press, which may be preferable for users who enjoy a more substantial feel when typing or gaming. Both switches offer unique advantages based on their travel distances, so choosing between the two ultimately depends on individual preferences for responsiveness and tactile feedback.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The PH Studio Milk Tea has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milk Tea for $4.00.
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
In terms of sound, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch is characterized by a high-pitched and clacky sound profile, offering a crisp and percussive typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, suitable for various purposes. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles, with the Milk Tea leaning towards a sharper and more resonant sound, while the Polaris Purple provides a more moderate and versatile auditory experience.
When it comes to feel, the Milk Tea switch is praised for its polished and silky typing experience, offering reduced friction and smooth key travel. Conversely, the Polaris Purple switch is noted for its mild and polished feel, providing a gentle typing experience that falls within a safe middle ground. Both switches prioritize smoothness and refinement in tactile feedback, ensuring a comfortable and effortless typing session for users.
In conclusion, while the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch offer different sound and feel qualities, they both excel in providing a satisfying typing experience tailored to the needs of keyboard enthusiasts. Whether you prefer a sharper, more resonant sound like the Milk Tea or a neutral, versatile sound like the Polaris Purple, both switches guarantee a polished and smooth typing feel that enhances overall comfort and efficiency during long typing sessions. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you seek.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch or the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences and typing needs. If you value a lighter bottom-out force, a unique auditory blend with a high-pitched yet muted sound, and a switch designed for prolonged typing sessions, the Milk Tea may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom-out force, a big tactile bump for a exhilarating typing experience, and a snappy sound profile, the Polaris Purple could be the ideal option. Consider your sound and feel preferences described above, and choose the switch that best aligns with your typing style and comfort. Ultimately, both switches offer distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to select the one that aligns with your typing preferences and needs.
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