KTT Pine vs. SP-Star Polaris Purple
An in-depth look at the KTT Pine and the SP-Star Polaris Purple switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing two popular mechanical keyboard switches, the KTT Pine and the SP-Star Polaris Purple. On one hand, we have the KTT Pine, a linear switch that offers a medium-heavy feel and a buttery smooth typing experience. These switches are renowned for their effortless performance, thanks to a polished, factory-lubed finish that minimizes friction for smooth key travel. Categorized as 'Bassy', 'Buttery', 'Creamy', and 'Low-pitched', the Pine switch provides a satisfyingly tactile-less experience. On the other hand, we have the SP-Star Polaris Purple, a tactile switch with a big, exhilarating tactile bump. This switch offers a snappy sound profile, appealing to those who enjoy a more pronounced tactile typing experience. Categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished', the Polaris Purple switch delivers a satisfying sensation with each keystroke. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
1.90 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
15.5mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The KTT Pine and the SP-Star Polaris Purple both feature polycarbonate top and bottom housings. This material choice contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile in both switches. The use of polycarbonate in the housings creates a clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for those who value the sound feedback of their keyboard. Moreover, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the effective use of RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetics of the switches in both cases.
Despite their similarities, the Pine and the Polaris Purple differ in terms of their color. While the Pine remains unmentioned in terms of color, the Polaris Purple signifies its distinct hue. This suggests that the Polaris Purple may offer a visually striking option for those who prefer a touch of color in their keyboard setup. However, it is important to note that this subtle difference in appearance does not inherently affect the functional aspects or the sound profile of the switches.
As mentioned earlier, if the top and bottom housings differ within a switch, their respective properties will affect different aspects of the typing experience. When pressing down on either the Pine or the Polaris Purple, the qualities of the bottom housing will be felt, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. It is important to consider this distinction when deciding between the two switches, depending on the desired sound profile and feedback during typing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Pine linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. Starting with the actuation force, the Pine requires 45 grams to trigger a keystroke, while the specific value for the Polaris Purple remains unknown. However, it can be deduced that both switches fall within the medium range, ensuring a relatively light touch for typing. Moving on to the bottom out force, the Pine requires 58 grams, whereas the Polaris Purple boasts a slightly heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category.
Considering weight, lighter switches like the Pine are favored by those who need to type for extended periods or engage in lengthy gaming sessions. With a lighter actuation force, the Pine provides a more effortless typing experience, reducing fatigue. In contrast, the Polaris Purple offers a stronger push feel due to its heavier bottom out force, appealing to individuals seeking a more substantial and tactile typing experience.
In conclusion, while the actuation forces of the two switches may be similar, with both falling into the medium range, the bottom out forces differentiate them. As such, the Pine can be seen as the lighter option, ideal for extended typing sessions or gaming, while the Polaris Purple provides a heavier and more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch plays a significant role in the typing experience, as it determines the depth at which the key needs to be pressed. In the case of the KTT Pine linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch, both switches have a travel distance of 4 mm. Therefore, when pressing down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience a similar sensation, as they both have the same travel distance. This similarity in travel distance ensures that typing on keyboards equipped with either switch will provide a consistent and comfortable feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Pine has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $4.15.
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.
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 KTT Pine linear switch offers a bassy and low-pitched sound profile. These switches produce a deeper and richer sound during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. This can add a satisfying auditory experience to your typing. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch has a neutral sound profile. It produces a moderate sound, which is suitable for various situations, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you use them at home or work. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors like the keyboard board and keycaps you choose. However, both switches provide enjoyable sound experiences, with the KTT Pine being more bassy and the SP-Star Polaris Purple being more neutral.
When it comes to feel, the KTT Pine linear switch is praised for its buttery and creamy typing experience. These switches offer a smooth and fluid keystroke, providing a seamless and effortless sensation. It feels like gliding your fingers across the keys with ease, creating a uniform typing experience. Additionally, the Pine switch is factory-lubed, reducing friction and further enhancing the smooth key travel. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch provides a mild tactile typing experience. It offers a gentle and approachable feel compared to switches with more pronounced tactile characteristics. The Polaris Purple switch also features a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches provide a pleasant tactile experience, with the KTT Pine being buttery and creamy, and the SP-Star Polaris Purple being mild and polished.
In conclusion, the KTT Pine linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Pine switch offers a bassy sound profile and a buttery, creamy typing experience, while the Polaris Purple switch provides a neutral sound profile and a mild, polished feel. Although they have distinct qualities, both switches offer a smooth and enjoyable typing experience. If you prefer a deeper, richer sound and a smooth, fluid feel, the KTT Pine switch would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a more neutral sound and a gentle, polished feel, the SP-Star Polaris Purple switch would suit your preferences. Take into consideration your personal preferences and the context in which you will be using the switches to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy switch with a buttery smooth and effortless typing experience, the KTT Pine linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. With a bottom out force of 58 grams, it provides a balanced feel without being too heavy. The Pine switch minimizes friction, thanks to its factory-lubed finish, allowing for smooth key travel. It is also known for its bassy and low-pitched sound profile, offering a deeper and richer sound during key presses.
On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile typing experience with a moderate actuation force requirement, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch is the right option for you. With a bottom out force of 67 grams, it offers a medium-heavy feel. The Polaris Purple switch provides a snappy sound profile due to its big tactile bump. It has a mild and polished feel, offering a more gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Pine and SP-Star Polaris Purple switches depends on your preferences for weight, smoothness, sound, and tactile feedback. Consider your typing style and desired typing experience to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup. In the end, both switches have their own unique characteristics that can enhance your typing enjoyment.
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