Outemu Tom vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the Outemu Tom and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Outemu Tom and the SP-Star Polaris Purple mechanical keyboard switches, you'll find that both switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Tom switch is best known for its subtle tactile feedback, while the Polaris Purple stands out for its pronounced tactile bump that provides an exhilarating typing experience. The Tom switch falls into the neutral, mild, and polished category, making it a versatile option for those who prefer a balanced typing feel. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple switch offers a snappy sound profile and a more defined tactile feel, ideal for users who enjoy a more tactile typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can decide which switch is the best fit for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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 Tom and the SP-Star Polaris Purple, one can see that they both feature polycarbonate top housings. Both switches are described as having a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile thanks to the use of polycarbonate. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it especially useful for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. However, while the top housings of both switches are made of polycarbonate, the bottom housing materials differ.
On one hand, the Tom features a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Polaris Purple. Nylon is known for being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This contrast in bottom housing materials can impact the overall sound and feel of typing on the switches. The Tom will likely provide a different typing experience compared to the Polaris Purple due to the use of nylon in the bottom housing.
Overall, the use of different housing materials for the top and bottom of a switch can create distinct typing experiences. While both the Tom and the Polaris Purple feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharper sound profile, the difference in bottom housing materials - nylon for the Tom and polycarbonate for the Polaris Purple - can lead to variations in sound and feel. It's important for users to consider not only the top housing material but also the bottom housing material when choosing a switch for their keyboard setup.
Weight
The Outemu Tom tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 55 grams compared to the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, whose actuation force is unknown. However, the Polaris Purple switch has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, while the bottom out force of the Tom switch is not specified. The Tom switch would provide a lighter typing experience due to its lower actuation force, making it more suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions. Alternatively, the Polaris Purple switch would offer a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for typing feel and desired weightiness of key presses.
Travel distance
The Outemu Tom tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Polaris Purple has a longer travel distance compared to the Tom. Typically, a 4.0mm travel distance is considered the most traditional, while a 3.0mm travel distance is the most shallow. Gamers often prefer shorter travel distances for quicker response times, while others may prefer a longer travel distance for a more substantial keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance.
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 Tom 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 Tom switch is known for having a sound profile that is yet to be determined, while the SP-Star Polaris Purple switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that the Polaris Purple switch has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of uses whether you are a beginner or advanced user. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Tom switch does not have a specific descriptor for its tactile feel, while the SP-Star Polaris Purple switch is described as having a mild and polished tactile feel. A mild switch offers a gentle typing experience, making it approachable to most users, and the polished finish of the Polaris Purple switch results in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, if you are looking for a switch with a neutral sound profile and a gentle yet polished tactile feel, the SP-Star Polaris Purple switch may be the right choice for you. If you prefer a switch with an unknown sound profile and feel, the Outemu Tom switch might also provide similar results. Ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch with a light bottom out force and a focus on a specific attribute, such as typing speed or gaming, you may want to opt for the Outemu Tom tactile switch. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, a big tactile bump, and a snappy sound profile, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch would be the better choice for you. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for typing experience and sound profile. Consider your priorities and choose the switch that aligns best with your needs.
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