SP-Star Polaris Purple vs. KTT Purple Star
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the KTT Purple Star switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the SP-Star Polaris Purple, a tactile switch, and the KTT Purple Star, a linear switch. The Polaris Purple is celebrated for its exhilarating tactile typing experience, highlighted by a big tactile bump that provides a snappy sound profile. On the other hand, the Purple Star switches are lauded for their buttery smooth typing experience due to their all-POM construction, creating a neutral sound signature. The Polaris Purple falls under the categories of 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished', while the Purple Star is categorized as 'Mild', 'Low-pitched', and 'Easy-to-press'. Choosing between these 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
N/A
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The SP-Star Polaris Purple and KTT Purple Star keyboards both offer unique housing materials that contribute to the overall sound profile of the switches. The Polaris Purple features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, while the Purple Star utilizes a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound. This contrast in sound profiles can greatly affect the typing experience for users, with the Polaris Purple offering a more crisp and resonant sound compared to the Purple Star's softer and more subdued tone.
In terms of bottom housing, both the SP-Star Polaris Purple and KTT Purple Star keyboards showcase similar differences in material. The Polaris Purple includes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a sharper and clearer sound profile, while the Purple Star boasts a POM bottom housing that offers a deeper and more muted sound. These contrasting sound profiles between the bottom housings of the two keyboards can impact the overall typing experience, with the Polaris Purple providing a more resonant bottom-out sound compared to the Purple Star's softer touch.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the SP-Star Polaris Purple and KTT Purple Star keyboards, they both offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. While the Polaris Purple's polycarbonate housing material produces a sharper and crisper sound, the Purple Star's POM housing material offers a deeper and more muted tone. Ultimately, the choice between the two keyboards will come down to individual preference for sound profile, with the Polaris Purple providing a more vivid and resonant typing experience, while the Purple Star offers a softer and more subdued sound.
Weight
The SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch have significant differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Polaris Purple has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, while the Purple Star has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams. The actuation force of the Polaris Purple is unknown, while the Purple Star has an actuation force of 43 grams. This means that the Purple Star requires less force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Polaris Purple. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Purple Star would be the more suitable option, allowing for longer periods of typing without experiencing fatigue. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple is better suited for individuals who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer of the two switches compared to the KTT Purple Star linear switch, which has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. While both switches fall within the traditional range for travel distances, the Polaris Purple offers a slightly deeper key press experience compared to the Purple Star. Gamers may prefer the Purple Star for its slightly faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those looking for a more substantial key press may opt for the Polaris Purple. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for key press depth and responsiveness.
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 KTT Purple Star comes in at $4.88 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 SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch is known for its neutral profile, offering a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the KTT Purple Star linear switch is described as having a low-pitched sound, featuring a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. The choice of board and keycaps can also influence the overall sound profile of each switch.
In terms of feel, both the Polaris Purple and Purple Star switches are classified as providing a mild typing experience. The Polaris Purple switch is said to have a polished finish, resulting in smooth and refined key travel, while the Purple Star switch is highlighted for being easy-to-press, requiring minimal force to activate and reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Both switches offer a comfortable and approachable typing experience suitable for a wide range of users.
In conclusion, while the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch offer different sound profiles with the former being neutral and the latter low-pitched, they both provide a mild and comfortable typing experience that caters to a broad range of users. Whether you prefer a tactile typing experience with a snappy sound or a smooth linear feel with a buttery typing experience, both switches offer quality performance. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference for sound and feel.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch and the KTT Purple Star linear switch, consider your typing preferences and needs. If you enjoy a medium-heavy tactile typing experience with a snappy sound profile, the Polaris Purple is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a light and buttery smooth typing experience with a neutral sound signature, the Purple Star is the better choice. Ultimately, choose the switch that aligns with your typing style and comfort preferences for an optimal typing experience.
Mentioned in this article
