Outemu Silent Green vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent Green and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Mechanical keyboard enthusiasts looking for a new switch option may find themselves torn between the Outemu Silent Green and the SP-Star Polaris Purple. The Silent Green is a linear switch that is best known for its silent operation, making it a great choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple is a tactile switch with a significant tactile bump that provides an exhilarating typing experience. The switch also boasts a snappy sound profile, adding to the overall typing experience. While the Silent Green offers a silent typing experience, the Polaris Purple provides a satisfying tactile feedback. 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
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
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
Both the Outemu Silent Green and the SP-Star Polaris Purple feature polycarbonate top and bottom housings, which contribute to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting, enhancing their visual appeal. The similarity in housing materials between the two switches suggests that users can expect comparable sound and feel characteristics from both models.
Although the top and bottom housings of the Silent Green and Polaris Purple switches are constructed from the same material, they play distinct roles in shaping the overall typing experience. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, affecting the key press itself, while the top housing has a greater impact on the sound produced when the key is released. This separation of qualities between the top and bottom housings allows for a more nuanced typing experience, where different aspects of the switch's performance can be attributed to specific components.
In essence, the housing materials of the Outemu Silent Green and the SP-Star Polaris Purple contribute to their shared characteristics, such as the sharp, high-pitched sound profile and clear resonance. Both switches benefit from the stiffness of polycarbonate, creating a distinct typing experience that is both audible and tactile. The use of polycarbonate in both top and bottom housings highlights the importance of material choice in determining the overall sound and feel of mechanical switches, making these two models a solid choice for users seeking a responsive and aesthetically pleasing typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Silent Green linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, some key differences become evident. The Silent Green has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the Polaris Purple, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Polaris Purple has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, while the Silent Green has a bottom out force of 60 grams. In terms of weight, the Silent Green is lighter in terms of actuation force, making it potentially more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple offers a heavier bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Overall, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches provide different typing experiences, allowing users to choose based on their preference for lighter or heavier key presses.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Silent Green linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, users will experience a consistent distance traveled from the top to the bottom. The travel distance of 4 mm for both switches ensures a similar typing experience in terms of key press depth and feedback. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable and reliable typing experience with their identical travel distances.
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 Silent Green 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 Silent Green switch is known for providing a quiet typing experience, perfect for those who prefer a more subtle sound profile. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple switch offers a snappy sound that adds to the overall tactile typing experience. Both switches offer different auditory experiences, allowing users to choose based on their preference for noise level while typing.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Silent Green switch does not have a specific description provided, but it is generally known for its smooth linear feel without any tactile feedback. In contrast, the SP-Star Polaris Purple switch is described as having a mild tactile bump that enhances the typing experience with a more pronounced feedback. Additionally, the polished finish of the Polaris Purple switches contributes to a smooth key travel, reducing friction and providing a sleek typing experience. Overall, the Polaris Purple switch offers a more tactile and refined feel compared to the Silent Green switch.
In conclusion, the Outemu Silent Green switch is best for those seeking a quiet and linear typing experience, while the SP-Star Polaris Purple switch is ideal for users who enjoy a tactile feedback and a snappier sound profile. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to personal preference when choosing between the two. Whether you prioritize sound, feel, or a combination of both, you can achieve satisfying results with either switch based on your individual typing style and needs.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Outemu Silent Green linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, you should consider your preference for typing experience. If you prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience with a medium bottom out force, the Silent Green may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more pronounced tactile bump and a snappier sound profile with a slightly heavier bottom out force, the Polaris Purple switch would be a great option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and preference for feel and sound when selecting between these two switches.
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