Outemu Phoenix vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the Outemu Phoenix and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that stand out are the Outemu Phoenix, a clicky switch, and the SP-Star Polaris Purple, a tactile switch. The Phoenix is highly regarded for its unique under-skirt click mechanism, making it one of the most distinctive clicky switches available today. Its crystalline and sparkling feel and sound profile are unparalleled. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple is known for its exhilarating tactile typing experience, thanks to its prominent tactile bump. The sound profile of the Polaris Purple is snappy, adding an extra layer of satisfaction to each keystroke. While these general pointers provide a glimpse into the characteristics of each switch, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can make an informed decision on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
The Outemu Phoenix and the SP-Star Polaris Purple both feature polycarbonate as the material for their top and bottom housings. This choice of material brings several advantages to both switches. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, allowing for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. Therefore, both the Phoenix and the Polaris Purple will offer similar sound profiles and aesthetic benefits due to their polycarbonate top and bottom housings.
The key difference between the Phoenix and the Polaris Purple lies in their color options, with the Phoenix featuring a clear housing and the Polaris Purple adopting a purple hue. While the polycarbonate material remains the same, the different aesthetics of the two switches may appeal to different preferences. The clear housing of the Phoenix showcases the inner mechanisms and allows for a more transparent look, while the Polaris Purple adds a vibrant and visually striking element with its colored housing. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference based on color and style preferences.
When it comes to the impact on sound and feel, both the top and bottom housings play a role, albeit in different ways. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed down. On the other hand, the top housing plays a more prominent role in the sound produced when the key is released. This means that the polycarbonate material used in the bottom housing of both the Phoenix and the Polaris Purple will contribute to a more defined and satisfying tactile feedback when typing or gaming, while the material used in the top housing will enhance the crispness of the sound after releasing a key. Overall, the combination of polycarbonate top and bottom housings in both switches ensures a well-balanced and engaging typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, we find some similarities and differences. Unfortunately, the exact actuation force for both switches is unavailable, but based on the information provided, we can see that they both fall within the medium range. This means that the force required to trigger a keystroke on either switch will be similar, providing a comparable typing experience.
However, when it comes to the bottom out force, there is a distinction between the two switches. The Outemu Phoenix has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which can be considered medium. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple surpasses this with a bottom out force of 67 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. This indicates that the Polaris Purple switch requires slightly more force to press all the way down compared to the Phoenix switch.
Considering the weight aspect, individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Phoenix switch more suitable. Its medium bottom out force allows for prolonged typing sessions without causing excessive fatigue. On the contrary, those seeking a more substantial feel and a stronger push may prefer the Polaris Purple switch, with its medium-heavy bottom out force providing a more pronounced tactile experience.
In conclusion, while the actuation forces are unknown for both switches, they are likely to yield similar results. However, the Phoenix switch is lighter in terms of bottom out force, while the Polaris Purple switch offers a heavier typing feel. The choice between these switches ultimately depends on personal preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch is 3.3 mm, while the travel distance of the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch is 4 mm. This means that the Polaris Purple has a longer travel distance compared to the Phoenix. The Polaris Purple's 4 mm travel distance falls within the traditional range, providing a more traditional and deeper keystroke feel. On the other hand, the Phoenix's 3.3 mm travel distance is slightly shorter, making it a preferred choice for gamers seeking faster response times. While the Polaris Purple offers a more hearty depth, the Phoenix offers a more responsive keystroke. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
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 Phoenix comes in at $4.15 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 Phoenix clicky switch is best described as crunchy. Crunchy keyboard switches, most commonly associated with clicky switches, sound like stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch has a more neutral sound profile. A neutral switch has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for most intents and purposes. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps. Overall, if you prefer a more unique and distinctive sound, the Phoenix switch would be a good option, while the Polaris Purple switch offers a more versatile and neutral sound.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch is described as polished. A polished switch indicates a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience. This is achieved through the use of high-quality materials or factory lubrication, which reduces friction and provides a smooth key travel. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch offers a mild typing experience. A mild mechanical keyboard switch offers a more gentle feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The sound and feel of the Polaris Purple switch are approachable to most users, as it falls within a safe and middle-ground zone. Additionally, like the Phoenix switch, the Polaris Purple switch also features a polished finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Taking all the available information into account, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch stands out for its unique and crystalline sound profile, as well as the polished feel it offers with reduced friction and smooth key travel. It provides a distinctive typing experience that is reminiscent of stepping on piles of autumn leaves. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch offers a more versatile sound profile that is suitable for various purposes, with a neutral and snappy sound. The switch also provides a mild and approachable feel, falling within a safe middle-ground zone. Both switches have a polished finish for a sleek typing experience. While the Phoenix switch offers a more unique sound, those seeking a versatile and neutral sound can achieve similar results with the Polaris Purple switch. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference regarding sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a unique clicky switch with a medium bottom out force, the Outemu Phoenix would be a great choice for you. Its under-skirt click mechanism provides a sparkling and crystalline typing experience, and the sound profile is described as crunchy, reminiscent of stepping on piles of autumn leaves. Additionally, the Phoenix switch has a polished feel, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile typing experience with a slightly heavier bottom out force, the SP-Star Polaris Purple switch would be a suitable option. These switches have a big tactile bump that delivers an exhilarating typing experience, and the sound profile is snappy. The Polaris Purple switch offers a mild and polished feel, so you can expect a gentle typing experience with reduced friction.
Overall, both switches have their unique characteristics and it ultimately depends on your preference in terms of clickiness, bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. Consider your typing style and environment when choosing between the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch.
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