Cherry MX Purple RGB vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Cherry MX Purple RGB and the SP-Star Polaris Purple both offer unique tactile experiences that cater to different preferences. The Cherry MX Purple RGB switch, developed in collaboration with keyboard enthusiast Glarses, is recognized for its refined tactile feel, featuring a short, medium-strength bump that provides just the right amount of feedback without being overwhelming. This makes it an ideal choice for those who appreciate a balanced typing experience that's neither too soft nor too harsh. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple switch boasts a pronounced tactile bump, delivering an exhilarating typing sensation that many users find satisfying. Its snappy sound profile adds to the overall experience, making it particularly appealing for gamers and typists who enjoy audible feedback. Both switches are designed to enhance your typing experience, but they cater to slightly different tastes and styles. 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
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Cherry MX Purple RGB and SP-Star Polaris Purple switches exhibit significant differences in their housing materials, impacting both sound and performance. The Cherry MX Purple RGB utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings, a material known for its softer properties. This choice results in a deeper, fuller sound profile that absorbs vibrations, leading to a sound that is more muted and rounded. In contrast, the SP-Star Polaris Purple features polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housings. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound that resonates clearly. This fundamental divergence in materials plays a crucial role in shaping the overall auditory experience for users of these two switches.
As we examine the impact of the different housing materials, it’s essential to note how each housing contributes to the switch's overall sound profile. For the Cherry MX Purple RGB, the nylon top housing generates a duller sound when the key is released, while the nylon bottom housing promotes a plush bottom-out feel. This combination tends to create a harmonious balance, resulting in a smooth typing experience that many users appreciate. Conversely, the SP-Star Polaris Purple's polycarbonate construction offers a distinct clarity and resonance that highlights the top housing's impact on released sounds. The more rigid bottom housing enhances the tactile feedback upon bottoming out, which can aid in a more pronounced typing experience, contrasting sharply with the MX's softer attributes.
Aesthetically, another noticeable difference arises from the materials' translucency. The polycarbonate housing of the Polaris Purple allows light to more effectively pass through, making it particularly suitable for showcasing RGB lighting. Users who prioritize visual effects during use will find the Polaris Purple to be a more aligned choice with their needs due to this property. On the other hand, while the Cherry MX Purple RGB excels in producing a muted sound profile, its nylon housings will not produce the same vibrant light diffusion characteristic of polycarbonate. Therefore, while both materials can yield satisfying results based on user preference—whether they lean toward a softer auditory experience or a sharper, more vibrant one—the differences in sound production and aesthetic appeal present unique advantages depending on the switch chosen.
Weight
When comparing the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, we can see key differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Cherry MX Purple RGB has a specified actuation force of 45 grams, which indicates a lighter feel that may benefit users looking for a comfortable typing experience over extended periods, such as during long work hours or gaming sessions. However, the bottom out force for this switch is unknown, making it difficult to assess how it feels when fully pressed down. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple switch has an unknown actuation force but it features a bottom out force of 67 grams, categorized as medium-heavy. This heavier bottom out force suggests that users may experience a more substantial typing experience, preferred by those who enjoy a firmer keystroke. Therefore, for users prioritizing a lighter option, the Cherry MX Purple RGB is the suitable choice, while those seeking a more robust tactile feedback should consider the Polaris Purple due to its heavier bottom out force. Overall, these differences illustrate the varying preferences users have regarding switch feel and force requirements, emphasizing the importance of personal choice based on typing habits and ergonomic needs.
Travel distance
Both the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch feature a travel distance of 4 mm, which means that pressing down on either key will provide a similar tactile experience. Since their travel distances are equal, users can expect comparable results in terms of key response and feedback when utilizing either switch. This consistency allows for a uniform typing or gaming experience across different keyboards that employ these switches. Thus, both switches can be regarded as equally responsive, making them suitable choices for users looking for tactile feedback without any differences in travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Purple RGB has an MSRP of $6.19 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Purple RGB for $5.79.
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 Cherry MX Purple RGB switches offer a refined auditory experience, characteristic of Cherry’s typical design ethos, which usually aims for a balanced profile that suits both casual and serious typists. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches have a sound profile that is described as neutral, providing a moderate sound level that can be deemed suitable for various environments, be it at a home office or in a more professional setting. This neutrality makes the Polaris Purple easy to use without being overly disruptive, while the MX Purple RGB leans more towards a classic clicky sound that typists may find satisfying, particularly when executing those tactile bumps.
In terms of feel, the Cherry MX Purple RGB switches feature a refined tactile feedback represented by a short, medium-strength bump, which makes the typing experience precise and engaging. Conversely, the Polaris Purple switches stand out through their pronounced tactile bump, providing a more exhilarating typing sensation. While the MX Purple RGB leans towards a polished experience with a balanced force requirement, the Polaris Purple offers a mild touch that caters to those seeking a gentler typing sensation. The combination of a big tactile bump and a polished finish in the Polaris makes for a unique typing experience that balances both excitement and ease, while the Cherry MX emphasizes precision.
In conclusion, both Cherry MX Purple RGB and SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switches present their own unique qualities, tailored to different typing preferences. If you're after a refined, somewhat clicky experience, the Cherry MX Purple RGB will likely satisfy your needs, while the SP-Star Polaris Purple caters to those who favor a more pronounced tactile feel while maintaining a neutral sound. Ultimately, depending on your specific preferences for sound and tactility, either switch can deliver an enjoyable typing experience, ensuring you will have a satisfying time regardless of which route you choose.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Cherry MX Purple RGB tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch will largely depend on your specific preferences and typing style. If you are a keyboard enthusiast seeking a refined tactile experience with a medium-strength bump and a switch designed in collaboration with experts, the Cherry MX Purple RGB may be the optimal choice for you. Its unique feel ensures it caters to users who appreciate a balanced tactile feedback without excessive resistance, making it suitable for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, if you value a more pronounced tactile experience with a heavier bottom-out force, the Polaris Purple is likely the better option. Its snappy sound profile and exhilarating tactile bump provide a more engaging typing experience, making it perfect for those who thrive on a stronger tactile feedback. The neutrality of the Polaris Purple's sound and feel makes it versatile for both work and gaming environments, allowing you to enjoy a satisfyingly responsive typing experience. In essence, choose the Cherry MX Purple RGB for a sophisticated yet gentle typing experience, while leaning towards the SP-Star Polaris Purple if you're after a robust and thrilling tactile sensation.
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