Outemu Silver vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silver 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 Silver and SP-Star Polaris Purple offer distinct experiences for users. The Outemu Silver is a linear switch, known for its smooth and consistent keystrokes. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple is a tactile switch with a noticeable tactile bump that enhances typing feedback. The sound profile of the Polaris Purple is described as snappy, adding to the overall typing experience. Choosing between these two switches ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.60 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 Silver and the SP-Star Polaris Purple, it's clear that both switches use polycarbonate in their top housing. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it an ideal material for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. However, where the two switches differ is in their bottom housing. The Silver features a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple pairs its polycarbonate top housing with a polycarbonate bottom housing, emphasizing a clear and resonant sound profile with a sharper edge.
The unique combination of materials in the Outemu Silver and the SP-Star Polaris Purple results in a distinct typing experience for each switch. The nylon bottom housing of the Silver contributes to a deeper, fuller sound when typing, creating a more muted and rounded sound profile. In contrast, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Polaris Purple enhances the overall sound profile with a sharper and more resonant tone. This difference in bottom housing material can significantly impact the overall feel and sound of typing on each switch, providing users with a diverse range of tactile experiences.
In understanding how the top and bottom housing materials of the Outemu Silver and the SP-Star Polaris Purple influence sound and feel, it becomes evident that the housing materials play a crucial role in determining the overall typing experience. While both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing for a similar sharp sound profile, the difference in bottom housing material results in distinct typing experiences. The split qualities between the top and bottom housing materials highlight the importance of considering both aspects when selecting a switch for specific preferences in sound and feel while typing.
Weight
The Outemu Silver linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, which has a force that is unknown. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Silver requiring 65 grams and the Polaris Purple requiring 67 grams. This makes the Silver switch slightly lighter in terms of actuation force, making it easier to type on for extended periods of time. The Polaris Purple switch, on the other hand, provides a slightly heavier bottom out force, giving users a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on the user's preference for a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Silver linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This similarity ensures that users will get a consistent typing experience with either switch. No matter which switch you choose, you will get a reliable and satisfying typing experience with a travel distance that allows for smooth key presses.
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 Silver 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 Silver switch doesn't have a specific reputation or characteristic attached to its sound profile. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple switch is known for its snappy sound profile. The Polaris Purple switch falls under the category of a neutral switch, which means it has a moderate sound profile suitable for various typing environments. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard housing and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Outemu Silver switch does not have a defined feel associated with it. Contrastingly, the SP-Star Polaris Purple switch is described as providing a tactile typing experience with a big tactile bump. This tactile characteristic falls under the mild category, offering a gentle typing experience that can be comfortably used by most individuals. Additionally, the Polaris Purple switch is considered polished, meaning it has a smooth and refined finish that contributes to a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Silver and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches have differing subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel, it is important to note that both switches offer unique experiences that cater to different preferences. The Outemu Silver's lack of specific characteristics may result in a more versatile sound and feel, while the SP-Star Polaris Purple's pronounced tactile bump and polished finish provide a more tactile and refined typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, either switch can offer a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Silver linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you prefer a lighter switch with a smooth linear feel, the Silver is a great choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a more tactile typing experience with a satisfying bump and snappy sound, the Polaris Purple would be a better fit for you. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking for.
Mentioned in this article
