Outemu Cream Pink vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the Outemu Cream Pink and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Cream Pink and the SP-Star Polaris Purple offer unique experiences for different preferences. The Cream Pink is a linear switch known for its smooth keystrokes and lack of tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple is a tactile switch with a noticeable bump that enhances typing feedback and provides a satisfying click sound. While the Cream Pink may appeal to those who prefer a seamless typing experience, the Polaris Purple is ideal for individuals who enjoy a more tactile and audible response while typing. 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
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Partial box
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
Both the Outemu Cream Pink and the SP-Star Polaris Purple feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Cream Pink uses nylon for both its top and bottom housing, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer plastic composition that absorbs sound. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple utilizes polycarbonate for its top and bottom housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile because of polycarbonate's stiffer plastic composition. While both materials offer their own benefits, nylon provides a duller and rounder sound compared to the clear and resonant sound produced by polycarbonate.
In terms of aesthetics, the housing materials of the Cream Pink and the Polaris Purple also differ. The Cream Pink's nylon housing creates a more subdued look, while the Polaris Purple's polycarbonate housing allows for enhanced RGB lighting due to its translucency. Additionally, the choice of housing material can impact the overall typing experience as the top housing plays a significant role in the sound produced when a key is released, while the bottom housing influences the sound and feel of bottoming out a key. Therefore, the differences in housing materials between the Cream Pink and the Polaris Purple can result in varied typing experiences for users.
While the housing materials of the Outemu Cream Pink and the SP-Star Polaris Purple offer distinct qualities, they both contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The Cream Pink's nylon housing provides a deep and fuller sound, while the Polaris Purple's polycarbonate housing creates a sharper and crisper sound. However, where the materials differ, such as in the top and bottom housings, their respective qualities are split between the two parts of the switch. Ultimately, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate housing will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetics when it comes to selecting a switch for a keyboard.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, there are some noticeable differences. The Cream Pink has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the Polaris Purple's unknown actuation force. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Cream Pink requiring 65 grams and the Polaris Purple needing 67 grams to bottom out. Those looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the Cream Pink due to its lighter actuation force, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Polaris Purple with its slightly heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, it is evident that both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that users will experience a consistent keypress distance regardless of which switch they choose. Both switches provide a medium-length travel distance, which may offer a balance between responsiveness and comfort for typists and gamers alike. Overall, the travel distance of these switches is equal, resulting in similar typing experiences for users of both the Cream Pink and Polaris Purple switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Outemu Cream Pink comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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 Outemu Cream Pink switch has a reputation for being quiet and smooth, making it a good choice for those who prefer a more subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple switch offers a snappy sound profile with a noticeable tactile bump, creating a more audible and tactile typing experience. Depending on your preferences, the Cream Pink may be more suitable for quiet environments while the Polaris Purple is better for those who enjoy a more pronounced typing sound.
In terms of feel, the Cream Pink switch's tactile characteristics are not specified. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple switch is known for its mild and polished feel. The mild tactile bump on the Polaris Purple switch provides a gentle typing experience, while the polished finish results in smooth and refined key travel. This makes the Polaris Purple switch approachable to most users, offering a comfortable typing experience with reduced friction.
Overall, the Outemu Cream Pink switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switch offer different sound and feel profiles to cater to varying preferences. While the Cream Pink switch is quieter and smoother, the Polaris Purple switch provides a more tactile and audible typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style. However, both switches offer quality performance that ensures a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and refined typing experience with a moderate actuation force, then the Outemu Cream Pink linear switch would be a great choice for you. However, if you prefer a tactile bump for a more exhilarating typing experience and a snappier sound profile, then the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch might be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on whether you prioritize smoothness and moderate actuation force or a tactile bump and a snappier sound profile in your mechanical keyboard.
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