Cherry MX Silent Red vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Silent Red 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 Silent Red and SP-Star Polaris Purple offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Cherry MX Silent Red, a linear switch, is renowned for its quiet operation, making it perfect for noise-sensitive environments while still providing a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple, a tactile switch, offers a tactile bump that enhances the typing experience with a snappy sound profile. While the MX Silent Red is categorized as 'Muted', 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', and 'Textured', the Polaris Purple is described as 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. These general differences provide a starting point for choosing the best switch for your 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
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
In comparing the housing materials of the Cherry MX Silent Red and SP-Star Polaris Purple, it is clear that they offer distinct sound profiles based on their composition. The nylon top housing of the MX Silent Red provides a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the Polaris Purple produces a sharper and crisper sound due to its stiffer nature. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate top housing makes it ideal for showcasing RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the switch.
On the other hand, both switches share a similar characteristic when it comes to their bottom housings. The nylon bottom housing of the MX Silent Red and the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Polaris Purple both contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because the softer nature of nylon and the stiffer nature of polycarbonate each play a role in absorbing sound and creating a duller and rounder sound. Despite the differences in their top housings, both switches provide a consistent sound experience when it comes to their bottom housings, emphasizing the importance of material composition in switch design.
Overall, the choice between the MX Silent Red and SP-Star Polaris Purple ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile and aesthetic appeal. While the MX Silent Red offers a softer and fuller sound with its nylon housing, the Polaris Purple provides a sharper and crisper sound with its polycarbonate housing. Whether you prefer a deep, round sound or a clear, resonant sound, both switches excel in delivering a satisfying typing experience based on the unique properties of their housing materials.
Weight
The Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, while the bottom out force of the MX Silent Red is unknown. For those who prefer a lighter touch, the MX Silent Red would be the better option, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. Meanwhile, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Polaris Purple with its heavier bottom out force. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of the two switches provide different typing experiences, catering to different preferences among users.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, which is shorter than the 4 mm travel distance of the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch. The difference in travel distance between the two switches may result in a slightly quicker response time for the MX Silent Red, making it a favorable choice for gamers seeking speed and precision. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Polaris Purple may provide a more satisfying tactile feedback for users who prefer a deeper keypress sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of key feel and response time.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
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 Silent Red switch offers a muted and low-pitched sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple switch provides a snappy and neutral sound profile, suitable for a wide range of users. While the MX Silent Red switch focuses on minimizing noise, the Polaris Purple switch aims to provide a balanced sound profile that is not too loud or too soft.
When it comes to feel, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch is described as having a textured feel, which may appeal to users who prefer a bit of friction when typing. In contrast, the SP-Star Polaris Purple switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, providing a smooth and refined feel that is comfortable for extended use. Both switches offer a different tactile feel, with the MX Silent Red focusing on texture and the Polaris Purple emphasizing smoothness and reduced friction.
Overall, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch that prioritizes a quiet sound profile and a textured feel, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch would be an excellent choice. Alternatively, if you prefer a neutral sound profile and a polished typing feel, the SP-Star Polaris Purple switch would be a suitable option. Depending on your personal preferences and typing habits, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different needs. It is important to consider factors such as sound, feel, and keycap compatibility when choosing between these two switches to ensure that you achieve the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, consider the environment in which you will be using the keyboard. If you require a quieter typing experience for noise-sensitive settings, the MX Silent Red is a great choice with its silent operation and slightly heftier feel. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more tactile typing experience with a snappy sound profile, the Polaris Purple switch with its medium-heavy bottom out force and exhilarating tactile bump may be more appealing to you. Ultimately, your personal preference for sound and feel will guide you in making the best choice between these two switches.
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