KTT Mint vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the KTT Mint 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 plenty of options to choose from. Two popular choices are the KTT Mint and the SP-Star Polaris Purple. The Mint is a linear switch, known for its satisfyingly smooth typing experience. With a long pole stem, it offers a poppy thockiness that is quite unique. This switch provides a light and fleeting type feel, making it ideal for those who prefer a gentle touch. On the other hand, we have the Polaris Purple, a tactile switch that offers a completely different typing experience. Known for its big tactile bump, typing on these switches is exhilarating and provides a satisfying feedback. The sound profile of the Polaris Purple is also snappy, adding to the overall typing experience. While the Mint offers a smooth and light feel, the Polaris Purple provides a tactile and satisfying bump. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
Comparing the housing materials of the KTT Mint and the SP-Star Polaris Purple, both keyboards utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This choice enhances the sound profile of the switches, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound when keys are released. The translucent nature of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for supporting RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the keyboards. Therefore, in terms of the top housing material, users can expect similar results and experiences from both the Mint and the Polaris Purple.
However, the bottom housing materials differ between the two keyboards. The Mint utilizes nylon, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. Nylon's relatively softer nature absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Polaris Purple incorporates a polycarbonate bottom housing. This choice maintains the overall sharper and crisper sound profile associated with polycarbonate, lending a more distinct and resonant sound when keys are pressed down. As a result, users can expect differences in the sound and feel when bottoming out on these keyboards.
When considering the impact of the housing materials on the overall typing experience, it is important to note that the top and bottom housings exert their influence in different ways. The bottom housing largely affects the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on keys, while the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, although both the Mint and the Polaris Purple incorporate polycarbonate in their top housings, the differences in their respective bottom housing materials may result in variations in the typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mint linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The Mint has an actuation force of 45 grams, which is considered medium-light, while the Polaris Purple's actuation force is unavailable. This means that we can't directly compare the two switches in terms of actuation force. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Mint requires 53 grams of force, which is also medium-light, whereas the Polaris Purple has a bottom out force of 67 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy.
Considering weight, it is worth noting that some individuals prefer a lighter typing experience, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. This makes the Mint switch a suitable option for those seeking a lighter typing feel. On the other hand, some users prefer a stronger push feel, as it gives a more substantial typing experience. For these individuals, the Polaris Purple switch, with its heavier bottom out force, would be a better choice.
In summary, while the actuation force of the KTT Mint and SP-Star Polaris Purple switches cannot be compared directly due to the unavailable information, we can see that the Mint has a lighter bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Polaris Purple has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for either a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch is a crucial factor to consider when selecting a keyboard switch. In the case of the KTT Mint linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches offer similar results.
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 KTT Mint comes in at $2.91 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
When it comes to sound, the KTT Mint linear switch is known for a low-pitched profile. This means that it produces a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. The sound is described as satisfyingly smooth with a poppy thockiness, which can be quite enjoyable for typing. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch is also described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate sound profile, suitable for most purposes. Although specific details about the sound of the Polaris Purple switch are not provided, we can infer that it would not be drastically different from the Mint switch in terms of acoustics.
In terms of feel, both the KTT Mint linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch offer a mild typing experience. This means that they provide a more gentle and approachable feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The Mint switch is specifically described as having a light and fleeting type feel, while the Polaris Purple switch is not described in detail in this aspect. Both switches are also mentioned to have a polished feel, indicating that they have a smooth and refined finish. This results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Overall, both switches seem to offer a comfortable and pleasant typing experience.
Based on the available information, it can be concluded that the KTT Mint linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch have some similarities in terms of sound and feel. Both switches have a neutral sound profile and offer a mild typing experience. They both provide a polished feel, resulting in smooth and refined typing. However, since the Polaris Purple switch does not have detailed information provided for its sound and feel, it is difficult to make a direct comparison between the two switches in these aspects. Additionally, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and linear typing experience with a light and fleeting type feel, the KTT Mint linear switch is the way to go. With its medium-light bottom out force of 53 grams, the Mint offers a satisfyingly smooth typing experience, thanks to its long pole stem that gives a poppy thockiness. The Mint also has a low-pitched and neutral sound profile, which provides a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Additionally, the Mint has a mild and polished feel, offering a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile typing experience with a big tactile bump, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch is a great choice. With a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, the Polaris Purple delivers an exhilarating tactile typing experience, accompanied by a snappy sound profile. Like the Mint, the Polaris Purple also has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for most intents and purposes. In terms of feel, the Polaris Purple shares the same mild and polished characteristics as the Mint, providing a comfortable typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Mint linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch depends on your preference for linear or tactile switches. Both switches offer their unique characteristics and typing experiences, so consider your desired feel and sound when making your decision. Whether you prioritize a smooth and linear feel or a tactile and snappy typing experience, both switches can deliver a satisfying keyboarding experience. So, take your pick and enjoy your mechanical keyboard journey!
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