KTT Orange vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the KTT Orange and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the KTT Orange and the SP-Star Polaris Purple. The KTT Orange is a linear switch known for its bouncy type feel and low-pitched sound profile. With a polycarbonate milky top housing, long pole POM stem, and vivid orange nylon bottom housing, these switches offer a slick and frictionless typing experience. Furthermore, the excellent factory-lubing ensures refined and fluid key travel, minimizing friction and maximizing smoothness. In contrast, the SP-Star Polaris Purple is a tactile switch that stands out for its big tactile bump, providing an exhilarating typing experience. The sound profile is described as snappy, enhancing the overall tactile feedback. Categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Frictionless', and 'Low-pitched', the KTT Orange offers a unique typing experience, while the Polaris Purple, with categorizations of 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished', delivers its own distinctive tactile feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you best.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
46g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The KTT Orange and the SP-Star Polaris Purple share similar housing materials, as both incorporate polycarbonate in their top and bottom housings. This choice of material contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the effective use of RGB lighting, making it an ideal option for those looking to add visual flair to their keyboard setup.
However, despite their similarities, the Orange and the Polaris Purple may exhibit slightly different qualities in terms of sound and feel due to potential variations in the polycarbonate used. While both housings offer clear and resonant sound profiles, the Orange may have a slightly different tonality compared to the Polaris Purple. This difference might be attributed to variations in the stiffness of the polycarbonate or other factors that can subtly impact the sound characteristics.
Moreover, it is important to note that the bottom housing material plays a significant role in the overall sound and feel of a switch upon pressing a key. The qualities of the bottom housing, namely the impact and bottom-out sound, will be more prominent in determining the tactile experience during key presses. Conversely, the top housing material will have a greater influence on the sound produced when releasing a key, contributing to the overall auditory experience. Therefore, while the Orange and Polaris Purple share common housing materials, the distribution of these materials in the top and bottom housings may result in slightly distinct tactile and auditory feedback for each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Orange linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The Orange has an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light option. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple's actuation force is unknown, but it has a bottom out force of 67 grams, putting it in the medium-heavy category.
Considering weight, some individuals may prefer a lighter switch like the KTT Orange, as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. This would be ideal for a keyboard used during work or extended gaming sessions. However, others may desire a more substantial typing experience and prefer a switch with heavier forces, such as the SP-Star Polaris Purple.
It is important to note that if the actuation forces of the switches are the same or unknown, similar results can be obtained in terms of trigger keystrokes. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Polaris Purple requires a higher force of 67 grams compared to the Orange's 53 grams. Ultimately, the choice between these switches would depend on the individual's preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the KTT Orange linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, it is evident that the Orange has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Polaris Purple has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Orange switch falls on the shallower end of the spectrum with a travel distance below the traditional 4.0 mm, making it an ideal choice for gamers who prioritize faster response times. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple switch offers a more substantial depth due to its longer travel distance, which may be preferred by individuals who desire a more satisfying key press. Ultimately, the difference in travel distance allows for a contrasting experience between the two switches, catering to the personal preferences of users.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Orange has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange 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 KTT Orange switch provides a low-pitched sound profile. This means that the sound produced by these switches has a bass-heavy and mellow tone, creating a pleasing auditory experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple switch has a neutral sound profile. This means that the sound produced by these switches is moderate and suitable for a wide range of purposes, making it a versatile option for both beginners and advanced users. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps chosen.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Orange switch offers a bouncy and frictionless typing experience. The 22mm long spring in these switches provides a spring-like or elastic feedback sensation, giving the keys a lively feel with rebound when pressed. Additionally, the switches are designed to minimize friction and maximize smoothness, resulting in an effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple switch provides a mild and polished typing experience. The mild characteristics offer a gentle typing experience, suitable for most users. The polished finish of the switch ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing feel.
Based on the available information, the KTT Orange and SP-Star Polaris Purple switches offer different subjective qualities. The Orange switch provides a low-pitched sound profile, a bouncy feel, and a frictionless typing experience. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple switch offers a neutral sound profile, a mild feel, and a polished typing experience. Depending on individual preferences and requirements, both switches have their strengths. However, it's worth mentioning that similar results in terms of sound and feel can be achieved with either switch, as they both aim to provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when it comes to choosing between the KTT Orange linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a bouncy, frictionless typing experience, the Orange switch would be a great choice for you. The Orange switches offer a slick and smooth key travel, accompanied by a low-pitched sound profile. Additionally, the Orange switches come factory-lubed, ensuring a refined and fluid typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a more pronounced tactile feedback, the Polaris Purple switch would be a better fit. The Polaris Purple switches feature a big tactile bump, providing an exhilarating typing experience. The sound profile of the Polaris Purple switches is described as snappy, adding an extra layer of satisfaction while typing.
Both switches have their own unique characteristics and advantages, so it ultimately boils down to your personal preferences and typing style. Whether you prefer the bouncy and frictionless feel of the Orange switches or the satisfying tactile feedback of the Polaris Purple switches, both options offer high-quality typing experiences.
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