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Outemu Gold vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple

An in-depth look at the Outemu Gold 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 Gold and the SP-Star Polaris Purple offer unique experiences for users. The Outemu Gold switch is a clicky switch, known for its distinctive click sound upon actuation. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple is a tactile switch, providing a satisfying tactile bump that enhances typing feedback. While the Gold switch is categorized as clicky, the Polaris Purple is categorized as neutral, mild, and polished. Those seeking a clicky and audible typing experience may prefer the Outemu Gold, while those looking for a tactile bump and a quieter sound profile may opt for the SP-Star Polaris Purple. 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

60g

Bottom-out force

67g

Pre-travel

1.80 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

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 Gold and the SP-Star Polaris Purple, we can see that both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing. This material creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, leading to a clear and resonant sound. The translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches that will be used with RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through. On the other hand, while the Gold's bottom housing is made of nylon, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, the Polaris Purple uses polycarbonate for its bottom housing. This split in housing materials means that each switch will have different qualities in terms of sound and feel when typing.

Despite the differences in their bottom housing materials, the Gold and the Polaris Purple both share the benefits of using polycarbonate in their top housing. This consistency means that both switches will have a similar sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile when keys are released, enhancing the overall typing experience. However, the choice of nylon for the Gold's bottom housing gives it a deeper and fuller sound, whereas the Polaris Purple's polycarbonate bottom housing results in a sharper and clearer sound. This distinction in bottom housing material may contribute to differences in the typing feel between the two switches.

Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Gold and the SP-Star Polaris Purple will come down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. While both switches benefit from the use of polycarbonate in their top housing, the differing bottom housing materials could lead to variations in typing experience. Whether you prefer a deeper and fuller sound profile with nylon or a sharper and crisper sound with polycarbonate, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to individual preferences. It's important to consider how these housing materials will impact your typing experience before making a decision between the two.

Weight

The Outemu Gold clicky 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, when it comes to bottom out force, the Polaris Purple is slightly heavier with a bottom out force of 67 grams while the Gold switch has a bottom out force of 60 grams. Both switches fall within the medium category, making them suitable for a variety of users. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Outemu Gold switch, while those looking for a more substantial typing feel may prefer the slightly heavier bottom out force of the SP-Star Polaris Purple switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the individual's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.

Travel distance

The Outemu Gold clicky switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either switch, the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom is the same for both. As a result, users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of key travel distance when using either switch. The similarities in travel distance between the two switches make them a great choice for individuals who prefer a consistent typing feel across different keyboards.

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 Gold 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 Gold clicky switch does not have a specific sound descriptor provided, while the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that the Polaris Purple switch offers a moderate sound profile suitable for various settings and users, making it a versatile option. However, the sound of a switch can be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.

Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Outemu Gold switch does not have a specific feel descriptor provided. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch is described as offering a mild and polished feel. This indicates that the Polaris Purple switch provides a gentle typing experience with smooth and refined key travel, resulting in a sleek and comfortable typing feel. The qualities of this switch fall into a safe middle-ground zone, making it approachable for most users.

Overall, while the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch offer different sound and feel profiles, both switches have their own unique characteristics that can cater to different preferences. If you are looking for a switch with a more moderate sound profile and a gentle, polished typing experience, the Polaris Purple switch may be the better choice for you. However, keep in mind that individual preferences play a significant role in choosing the right switch for your needs. Remember to consider factors such as sound, feel, and compatibility with your keyboard setup when making your decision.

Conclusion

To sum up, when deciding between the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preferences and typing style. If you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force and do not have a specific preference for sound or feel, the Outemu Gold may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more tactile typing experience with a slightly heavier bottom out force, along with a snappier sound profile and a polished feel, the SP-Star Polaris Purple would be the way to go. Consider your typing habits and what qualities are most important to you when making your selection between these two switches.

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