Cherry MX Red vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Red and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Cherry MX Red and the SP-Star Polaris Purple. The Cherry MX Red is a linear switch that is best known for its slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, providing a robust typing experience that combines responsiveness with a satisfying auditory depth. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple is a tactile switch with a big tactile bump that offers an exhilarating typing experience with a snappy sound profile. While the MX Red is categorized as 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', and 'Textured', the Polaris Purple is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. Both switches have their own unique qualities and benefits, making them suitable for different preferences and needs. 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
When comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Red and the SP-Star Polaris Purple, it is evident that they offer distinct sound profiles due to their different properties. The MX Red's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Polaris Purple's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer plastic, leading to a clear and resonant sound. The choice between these two housing materials would depend on individual preferences for sound quality.
Similarly, the bottom housing materials of the MX Red and the SP-Star Polaris Purple also contribute to their unique sound profiles. The nylon bottom housing of the MX Red produces a deeper and fuller sound profile, reflecting the characteristics of the softer plastic that absorbs sound effectively. In comparison, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Polaris Purple offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, showcasing the properties of the stiffer plastic that enhances clarity and resonance. These differences in bottom housing materials further showcase the impact that housing materials have on the overall sound and feel of mechanical switches.
In cases where the top and bottom housings are different for a switch, such as the Cherry MX Red and the SP-Star Polaris Purple, the qualities of each housing material are distributed throughout the switch. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Whether it is nylon or polycarbonate, the choice of housing material plays a crucial role in determining the overall sound profile and feel of mechanical switches, catering to the diverse preferences of keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Cherry MX Red linear switch is known for its light actuation force of 45 grams, making it a popular choice for those who prefer a lighter touch when typing or gaming. Additionally, the MX Red switch does not have a specified bottom out force, which could mean it provides a smoother typing experience without a firm resistance at the end of the key press. In contrast, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience with a more noticeable push feel. While the actuation force of the Polaris Purple switch is unspecified, its heavier bottom out force suggests that it may require a bit more effort to trigger a keystroke compared to the MX Red switch. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences for actuation and bottom out forces, with the MX Red being the lighter option and the Polaris Purple being the heavier option for those who prefer a stronger push feel.
Travel distance
Both the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them both equal in this aspect. This means that users can expect a similar level of keypress feedback and actuation point for both switches. The 4 mm travel distance allows for quick and smooth typing or gaming experiences, as the keys do not need to be pressed down very far before registering. Overall, whether you choose the Cherry MX Red or the SP-Star Polaris Purple, you can enjoy a consistent and comfortable typing experience with a travel distance that is neither too short nor too long.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red 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 Cherry MX Red switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of settings. Both switches offer different sound characteristics, with the MX Red being deeper and more bass-heavy, while the Polaris Purple is more moderate and versatile depending on personal preference and the setup of the keyboard.
Moving on to feel, the Cherry MX Red switch is known for its textured feel, which some users may find adds a level of tactile feedback while typing. In contrast, the SP-Star Polaris Purple switch offers a mild and polished feel, providing a smoother and more refined typing experience. The Cherry MX Red switch's textured feel may appeal to those who enjoy a bit of friction in their keystrokes, while the Polaris Purple switch's polished feel offers a more delicate and friction-free typing experience that can be preferred by those who prioritize smoothness.
Overall, the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the MX Red switch brings a deeper and textured typing experience, the Polaris Purple switch provides a more neutral and polished feel. Choosing between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience desired. Both switches have their own strengths and can deliver satisfactory results depending on the user's needs and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a smoother, more linear typing feel with a slightly deeper sound profile, the MX Red may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile typing experience with a moderate to heavy actuation force and a snappy sound profile, the Polaris Purple could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and how you want your keyboard to feel and sound while you type. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles, so choose the one that suits you best.
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