SP-Star Polaris Gray vs. Haimu Viola Tricolor
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Haimu Viola Tricolor switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that provide unique typing experiences are the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Haimu Viola Tricolor. The Polaris Gray is a linear switch and is ideal for those who enjoy a bouncy and responsive typing experience. Its clean and clacky sound profile adds to the overall satisfaction of using these switches. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor is a tactile switch that offers a thuddy and punchy sound profile, adding a touch of character to your typing. Its pronounced tactility provides satisfying feedback without being overly tactile. This switch strikes a perfect balance between sharp sensation and user comfort. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
Dual-staged gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the SP-Star Polaris Gray and the Haimu Viola Tricolor, specifically the polycarbonate top housing, are very similar. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housing to create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, both the Polaris Gray and the Viola Tricolor will offer similar results in terms of sound profile and aesthetic appeal due to their shared use of polycarbonate in the top housing.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, there is a notable difference between the two switches. The Polaris Gray features a polycarbonate bottom housing, similar to its top housing. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor utilizes a nylon bottom housing. While the polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to the overall sound profile of the switch, the nylon bottom housing in the Viola Tricolor provides a different typing experience. Because nylon is a relatively softer plastic, it absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This means that typing on the Viola Tricolor will elicit a duller and rounder sound compared to the Polaris Gray, which has a sharper and crisper sound due to its polycarbonate bottom housing.
In terms of the overall impact on the switch's performance, the qualities of the housing materials are split between the top and bottom. The bottom housing has a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed down. Therefore, the choice between polycarbonate and nylon in the bottom housing will impact the feedback and sensation experienced by the typist during key presses. Conversely, the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound produced when the key is released. In this aspect, both the Polaris Gray and the Viola Tricolor, with their polycarbonate top housings, will provide similar results in terms of the sound when the key is no longer pressed.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, there are some differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Polaris Gray switch has an actuation force measurement that is currently unavailable, while the Viola Tricolor also has an actuation force that is unavailable. This means that there is no specific information to compare or contrast in terms of their actuation forces.
However, looking at their bottom out forces, the Polaris Gray switch has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which can be considered medium-heavy. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor switch has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 63.5 grams, also falling into the medium-heavy range.
Considering weight as an important factor, those who prefer lighter switches may lean towards the Viola Tricolor switch, as its slightly lighter bottom out force may allow for longer typing sessions without causing as much fatigue. This would be suitable for individuals who use their keyboard extensively at work or during long gaming sessions.
On the contrary, for users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience and prefer a stronger push feel, the Polaris Gray switch may be the preferable choice due to its slightly higher bottom out force. This can provide a more satisfying tactile feedback and may be preferred by those seeking a more robust typing experience.
In conclusion, while the actuation forces of both switches are unknown, it is evident that the Viola Tricolor switch has a slightly lighter bottom out force compared to the Polaris Gray switch. Ultimately, personal preference and typing style will determine which switch is more suitable, as some may appreciate the lighter weight for extended usage, while others may prefer the heavier feel for a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a traditional distance. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. While both switches offer a similar range of travel, the Viola Tricolor is slightly shorter. This shorter travel distance can be appealing to gamers who prioritize faster response times. However, for those who prefer a more substantial key press, the Polaris Gray with its longer travel distance may provide a deeper and more satisfying sensation. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the intended use.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Polaris Gray 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 Gray for $5.00.
The Haimu Viola Tricolor has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Viola Tricolor for $3.09.
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 SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch offers a clean and clacky sound profile. These low-pitched switches deliver a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, giving a satisfying deep "thocky" sound when pressed and released. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch provides a thuddy and punchy sound profile. These switches have a bassy sound, characterized by a lower frequency range that adds depth and richness to the typing experience. Both switches offer a low-pitched sound profile, but the Polaris Gray focuses on a clean and clacky tone while the Viola Tricolor emphasizes the thuddy and punchy sound.
In terms of feel, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch offers a mild and polished typing experience. The mild feel ensures a gentle typing experience without being overwhelming, suited for most users. Additionally, the polished finish provides a smooth and refined typing experience, reducing friction and ensuring smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch offers an accented and invigorating feel. The accented tactility is prominent yet not overwhelming, delivering a medium tactile experience. The invigorating switch provides pronounced feedback, requiring moderate to firm actuation force, and offers a snappy and reactive feel for an immersive typing sensation.
To summarize, the Polaris Gray linear switch provides a bouncy typing experience with a clean and clacky sound profile, a mild and polished feel, and a moderate actuation force requirement. On the other hand, the Viola Tricolor tactile switch offers a thuddy and punchy sound profile, a pronounced but balanced tactility, and an invigorating typing experience. Both switches offer low-pitched sound profiles and deliver satisfying experiences, albeit with different qualities. Ultimately, the choice between them will depend on the desired sound and feel preferences of the user. However, it's important to note that the sound and feel of the switches may also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Conclusion
In conclusion, to sum up, when deciding between the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch and the Haimu Viola Tricolor tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you are looking for.
If you prefer a bouncy typing experience with clean and clacky sound, the Polaris Gray switches are the way to go. With a bottom out force of 67 grams, they offer a medium-heavy feel and a low-pitched, neutral sound profile. These switches are mild and polished, providing a gentle and smooth typing experience.
On the other hand, if you desire a thuddy and punchy sound profile with pronounced tactility, the Viola Tricolor switches are the better choice. With a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, they also offer a medium-heavy feel. The Viola Tricolor strikes a perfect balance, offering a satisfying feedback without being overly tactile. These switches have a bassy, low-pitched sound and are described as accented and invigorating, providing an immersive typing sensation.
Ultimately, it is important to consider your personal preferences in terms of sound and feel. If you prioritize a bouncy and clean typing experience, the Polaris Gray switches are a great option. However, if you prefer a thuddy sound profile with pronounced tactility, the Viola Tricolor switches are the way to go. Both switches offer a medium-heavy feel, so it ultimately comes down to the specific qualities you value in your typing experience.
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