Bsun Olive vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the Bsun Olive and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Olive and SP-Star Polaris Purple mechanical keyboard switches, it is evident that both offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Bsun Olive is renowned for its resonant, deep sound produced by all-POM housings, making it an invigorating and sharp choice for tactile switch enthusiasts. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple stands out for its big tactile bump, providing a mild and polished typing experience that is complemented by a snappy sound profile. Each switch offers a distinct tactile feedback, with the Olive featuring a pronounced tactile response and the Polaris Purple boasting an exhilarating tactile bump. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Bsun Olive and SP-Star Polaris Purple differ in their housing materials, with the Olive featuring a POM top and bottom housing while the Polaris Purple utilizes a polycarbonate top and bottom housing. The POM housing of the Olive creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the polycarbonate housing of the Polaris Purple generates a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, the stiffness of polycarbonate leads to a more clear and resonant sound profile, making it a popular choice for switches with RGB lighting. While both housings offer unique sound profiles, the differences in material result in distinct acoustic experiences for users.
In terms of aesthetics, the Bsun Olive with its POM top and bottom housing may have a more solid and matte appearance compared to the SP-Star Polaris Purple with its polycarbonate housing, which boasts a translucent quality. The clear polycarbonate housing of the Polaris Purple allows for the passage of light, making it an ideal choice for switches designed for use with RGB lighting. This difference in appearance between the two housing materials adds a layer of customization for users looking to match their switch housing with their desired aesthetic preferences.
When it comes to functionality, the housing material plays a crucial role in determining the overall sound and feel of the switch. The qualities of the bottom housing, whether POM or polycarbonate, will have a significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down. On the other hand, the top housing material will influence the sound produced when a key is released. Despite their differences, both the Bsun Olive and SP-Star Polaris Purple showcase the importance of housing materials in creating unique and customizable typing experiences.
Weight
The Bsun Olive tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force of 65 grams for the Olive and 67 grams for the Polaris Purple, making them both medium-heavy in terms of force needed to fully press the key. The Olive may be preferred by those who prefer a slightly lighter actuation force for longer typing sessions, while the Polaris Purple would be more suitable for those who prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force for a more substantial typing experience. In either case, users can expect a similar level of performance from both switches in terms of force required for keystrokes.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Bsun Olive tactile switch is 3.4 mm, while the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Polaris Purple has a longer travel distance compared to the Olive. A 3.4 mm travel distance is considered on the shorter side, offering a quicker response time, which is desirable for gamers. On the other hand, the 4 mm travel distance of the Polaris Purple provides a deeper press, which some users may find more comfortable and less abrupt. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance – whether you prefer a shorter distance for quicker responses or a longer distance for a more satisfying press.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Olive has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Olive for $4.70.
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 BSUN Olive tactile switch is known for delivering a resonant, deep sound that stands out among other switches. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch offers a snappy sound profile that adds to the typing experience. Both switches provide unique auditory experiences that can complement different preferences, with the Olive offering a deeper sound while the Polaris Purple has a snappier tone.
In terms of feel, the BSUN Olive tactile switch is characterized by its pronounced tactile feedback, providing a sharp bottom-out sensation that is satisfying during use. The switch offers a medium tactile experience that is invigorating and sharp, creating an immersive typing sensation. In contrast, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch offers a milder typing experience with a polished finish, providing a gentle and smooth key travel. The switch falls in the safe middle-ground zone, making it approachable to most users.
Overall, the BSUN Olive and SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switches each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. Depending on your preference for a deeper, resonant sound with pronounced tactile feedback, the Olive switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a snappier sound profile and a milder, polished typing experience, the Polaris Purple switch might be more suitable. Both switches provide a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that you'll get similar results of high quality and tactile feedback regardless of which one you choose.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when choosing between the BSUN Olive tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, your decision should be based on your preference for tactile feedback and sound profile. If you are looking for a switch with a unique design, pronounced tactile feedback, and a deep, resonant sound, the Olive switch may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a big tactile bump and a snappy sound profile, the Polaris Purple switch could be the better option. Consider your typing style and the type of experience you want to have while using your keyboard to make the best decision for your needs.
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