Outemu Crystal Brown vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal Brown and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Crystal Brown and the SP-Star Polaris Purple mechanical keyboard switches, both being tactile switches, some general points to consider include the Crystal Brown, which is best known for its smooth feature, while the Polaris Purple is renowned for its exhilarating tactile typing experience provided by a large tactile bump. The Crystal Brown is categorized as [smooth], while the Polaris Purple falls under categories such as neutral, mild, and polished. These distinctions can guide you in choosing the switch that best suits your preferences for typing feel and sound. Let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Crystal Brown and the SP-Star Polaris Purple, both switches use polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that creates a clear and resonant sound. However, the Crystal Brown's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Polaris Purple's polycarbonate bottom housing, which absorbs more sound due to its softer nature, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This difference in bottom housing material may impact the overall typing experience and sound produced by the switches.
While both switches have polycarbonate top housings that offer similar sound qualities, the difference in bottom housing material leads to distinct typing experiences. The Crystal Brown, with its nylon bottom housing, may provide a more satisfying and robust typing sound, while the Polaris Purple, with its polycarbonate bottom housing, may produce a crisper and higher-pitched sound. These differences showcase how the choice of housing materials can affect the overall sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard switch, catering to different preferences and typing styles.
Ultimately, the use of different housing materials in the Outemu Crystal Brown and SP-Star Polaris Purple switches demonstrates how variations in plastic stiffness and sound absorption can impact the sound profile and typing experience. While both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, the Crystal Brown's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper sound compared to the Polaris Purple's polycarbonate bottom housing. This distinction highlights the importance of considering housing materials when selecting mechanical keyboard switches, as they can greatly influence the overall typing sound and feel.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, it is clear that the Crystal Brown is lighter while the Polaris Purple is heavier. The Crystal Brown has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it medium-light in terms of force required. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple does not have a specified actuation force but has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it medium-heavy. Those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming may lean towards the Crystal Brown, while those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for the heavier Polaris Purple. Both switches provide tactile feedback, so regardless of the difference in force requirements, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of feedback and feel.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch is the same, measuring at 4 mm for both switches. This means that both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. This consistency ensures that users will get comparable results when using either switch, allowing for a consistent feel across different keyboards. Whether typing on a keyboard with the Outemu Crystal Brown or the SP-Star Polaris Purple, users can expect a similar travel distance that provides a satisfying tactile feedback while typing.
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 Crystal Brown 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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Crystal Brown switch is known for a neutral sound profile, which is suitable for most typing purposes whether at home or work. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple switch provides a snappy sound with a big tactile bump that enhances the typing experience. Both switches offer a different auditory experience, with the Crystal Brown being more versatile and the Polaris Purple offering a more distinct and exhilarating sound.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Crystal Brown switch does not have a specific descriptor provided. Meanwhile, the SP-Star Polaris Purple switch is described as providing a mild and polished typing experience. This means that the Polaris Purple switch offers a gentler typing feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics, making it approachable to most users. Additionally, the polished finish of the switch results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, adding to the overall typing comfort.
Overall, while the Outemu Crystal Brown and SP-Star Polaris Purple switches offer different sound and feel experiences, they both cater to a wide range of users. The Crystal Brown switch provides a neutral sound profile and a versatile typing experience, while the Polaris Purple switch gives a snappier sound and a polished, gentle typing feel. Ultimately, your choice between these switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-light switch with a smooth and refined typing experience, the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a big tactile bump and a snappy sound profile, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch would be more suitable. Consider your typing preferences and the type of tactile feedback and sound profile you prefer when choosing between these two switches. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what feels best for your typing style.
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