Outemu Purple vs. SP-Star Polaris Gray
An in-depth look at the Outemu Purple and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the choice between tactile and linear switches can greatly impact your typing experience. The Outemu Purple, a tactile switch, is known for its distinctive feel and falls into the category of tactile switches. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray, a linear switch, is praised for its bouncy typing experience and clean, clacky sound profile. Categorized as low-pitched, neutral, mild, thocky, and polished, the Polaris Gray offers a different feel compared to the Purple. If you prefer more pronounced tactile feedback, the Purple may be the switch for you. However, if you enjoy a smoother typing experience with a satisfying sound, the Polaris Gray could be the better choice. Let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can make the best decision about which switch is right for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Purple and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches, we can see that both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. The translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, providing a visually appealing element to the keyboard. However, the difference lies in the bottom housing material. The Purple features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Polaris Gray's polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, creating a rounder and duller sound overall.
The combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing in the Outemu Purple switch creates a unique sound profile that balances sharpness and depth. The stiffer polycarbonate in the top housing enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound when a key is released, while the softer nylon in the bottom housing adds depth and fullness when a key is pressed. In contrast, the SP-Star Polaris Gray switch maintains consistency with polycarbonate in both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a more uniform sound profile that is sharp, high-pitched, and crisp throughout the typing process. While both switches offer distinct acoustic characteristics, the choice between them ultimately depends on individual preferences for sound and feel.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the Outemu Purple and SP-Star Polaris Gray switches highlight how varying combinations can impact the sound and feel of mechanical keyboards. The Outemu Purple's mix of polycarbonate and nylon creates a nuanced sound profile that caters to those seeking a balance of sharpness and depth in their typing experience. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray's consistent use of polycarbonate delivers a uniform sound profile with a focus on sharpness and clarity. Whether one prefers a fuller sound with softer housing or a crisper sound with stiffer housing, these differences allow users to tailor their keyboard experience to suit their individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Purple tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, it's evident that they offer different weight profiles. The Outemu Purple has a relatively light actuation force of 50 grams, making it a suitable choice for those who prefer a lighter typing experience. However, the bottom out force for the Purple switch is unknown, so it's challenging to determine the overall feel of the switch. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray switch has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Although the actuation force of the Polaris Gray is unknown, the heavier bottom out force suggests that it may require more effort to type on compared to the Purple switch. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Purple tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. It also indicates that both switches provide a similar tactile or linear feedback to the user when pressed. Overall, whether you choose the Outemu Purple tactile switch or the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, you can expect a consistent travel distance and typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Polaris Gray 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 Gray for $5.00.
The Outemu Purple 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 Purple tactile switch is known for a clean and clacky sound profile. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch offers a low-pitched, neutral, and thocky sound. While the Purple's sound profile is not explicitly described, based on the information provided, it is likely to have a distinct and tactile sound compared to the Polaris Gray's smoother and bass-heavy tone.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Purple tactile switch lacks a specific description, while the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch is characterized as offering a mild and polished typing experience. This suggests that the Purple switch may have a more tactile and pronounced key feel, while the Polaris Gray switch provides a smoother and refined typing sensation with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, if you are looking for a keyboard switch with a bouncy typing experience and a clean and clacky sound, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch would be the ideal choice. However, if you prefer a switch with a more tactile feel and potentially a more distinct sound profile, the Outemu Purple tactile switch might be more suitable. Remember to consider other factors like keycaps and keyboard construction when making your decision to achieve your desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Purple tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you prefer a switch with a lighter bottom out force and are looking for a unique typing experience, the Purple switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a bouncy typing experience with a clean and clacky sound profile, the Polaris Gray switch could be the perfect choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and typing style to ensure you get the most satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
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