Cherry Nixie vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the Cherry Nixie 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, the Cherry Nixie and the SP-Star Polaris Purple offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. The Cherry Nixie is a linear switch known for its substantial heft and textured typing experience, making it a favorite among those who enjoy a satisfying "thocky" feel while typing. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple is a tactile switch with a big tactile bump that provides an exhilarating typing experience and a snappy sound profile. While the Nixie offers a more traditional typing experience with modern updates, the Polaris Purple provides a polished and mild tactile feedback. 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
63.5g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
80g
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
Gold-plated
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Cherry Nixie and the SP-Star Polaris Purple both feature different housing materials for their top and bottom components, with the Nixie boasting a nylon housing while the Polaris Purple has a polycarbonate housing. The nylon top housing of the Nixie provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder tone. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the Polaris Purple creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffer material which results in a more clear and resonant sound. While both materials offer their unique sound characteristics, users may prefer one over the other based on their sound preference.
The bottom housings of the Cherry Nixie and the SP-Star Polaris Purple also feature contrasting materials, with the Nixie utilizing a nylon bottom housing and the Polaris Purple featuring a polycarbonate bottom housing. Similar to the top housing, the nylon bottom housing of the Nixie contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Polaris Purple produces a sharper and crisper sound. The choice of material for the bottom housing can have a significant impact on the overall typing experience, as it influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Whether users prefer the softer and more absorbing quality of nylon or the stiffer and more resonant nature of polycarbonate will depend on their personal preference.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the Cherry Nixie and the SP-Star Polaris Purple result in distinct sound profiles for each switch. While the Nixie's nylon housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, the Polaris Purple's polycarbonate housing produces a sharper and crisper tone. However, if users are seeking a similar sound experience between the two switches, they may opt for either the Nylon top and bottom housing for the Cherry Nixie or the Polycarbonate top and bottom housing for the Polaris Purple. Ultimately, the choice of housing material can significantly impact the typing experience and sound produced by the switch, making it an important factor to consider for keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
The Cherry Nixie linear switch has a heavier actuation force of 63.5 grams compared to the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. When it comes to bottom out force, the Nixie requires 80 grams of force, while the Polaris Purple needs 67 grams. Both switches offer a substantial typing experience, with the Nixie being the heavier option and the Polaris Purple being lighter. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Polaris Purple may be the better choice. However, those who prefer a stronger push feel may find the heavier Nixie switch more suitable for their typing needs. In terms of actuation and bottom out forces, users can expect similar results from both switches despite the differences in weight.
Travel distance
Both the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. This means that both switches offer a similar level of tactile feedback and keypress experience. Users can expect consistent results in terms of the feel and travel distance when using either of these switches. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience with a moderate travel distance that is neither too short nor too long.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry Nixie has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Nixie for $4.19.
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 Nixie linear switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, producing a deep and satisfying tone when pressed. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch offers a neutral sound with a moderate actuation force requirement, suitable for various settings. The sound of both switches is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used, so the overall sound experience will vary depending on the setup.
When it comes to feel, the Cherry Nixie linear switch is recognized for its textured typing experience, providing a noticeable friction when pressed. Meanwhile, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch offers a mild and polished feel, offering a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches cater to different preferences in terms of tactile feedback, with the Nixie focusing on texture and the Polaris Purple on a smoother and refined typing feel.
In conclusion, the Cherry Nixie linear switch stands out for its textured feel and thocky, low-pitched sound, appealing to those who enjoy a tactile typing experience with a deep sound profile. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch offers a neutral sound and a polished, mild feel, catering to users seeking a gentler and smoother typing experience. Despite their differences, both switches provide unique qualities that will enhance the overall typing experience, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences in sound and feel. Ultimately, both switches offer quality options for those seeking reliable and satisfying mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Cherry Nixie linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer a heavier actuation, opt for the Nixie with its 80-gram force. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy actuation, the Polaris Purple with its 67-gram force might be more suitable for you. Additionally, if you enjoy a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, the Nixie is the way to go. However, if you prefer a neutral sound profile, the Polaris Purple is a great choice. Ultimately, when it comes to feel, the Nixie offers a textured experience, while the Polaris Purple provides a mild and polished feel. Consider these factors carefully to determine which switch aligns best with your typing preferences and style.
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