SP-Star Polaris Purple vs. Bsun Ragdoll
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the Bsun Ragdoll switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, enthusiasts often find themselves torn between tactile feedback and smooth linear action. The SP-Star Polaris Purple, a tactile switch, is celebrated for its pronounced tactile bump that delivers an exhilarating typing experience, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy the feedback of each keystroke. Its snappy sound profile complements the tactile nature, providing an engaging auditory cue with every press. On the other hand, the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch offers a completely different experience. With its Y3 stem design, the Ragdoll allows for exceptionally smooth key travel, paired with a nylon-fiberglass bottom housing that produces a distinct clacky sound. Ideal for gamers or typists who prefer an uninterrupted flow without the tactile resistance, the Ragdoll presents a streamlined option. Both switches cater to unique preferences—whether you seek tactile engagement or fluid motion—but let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Y3
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
21mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the Bsun Ragdoll, a stark contrast emerges between the two switches, particularly in their top and bottom housing compositions. The Polaris Purple features polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, which results in a sound profile characterized by sharper, crisper audio. This is primarily due to polycarbonate's higher stiffness, which enhances resonance and clarity. In contrast, the Ragdoll utilizes nylon for its housings, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile that is softer and more muted. As nylon absorbs more sound than polycarbonate, the auditory experience when typing on the Ragdoll is significantly different, reflecting a rounder and smoother sound compared to the Polaris Purple's brightness.
The distinct materials in the Ragdoll's housings influence not only the sound but also the feel of the switch. With nylon being a softer plastic, it contributes to a dampened response that can be pleasant for users who prefer a less pronounced tactile feedback. In contrast, the firmness of the polycarbonate in the Polaris Purple can provide a more defined bottom-out feel. This divergence means that, while both switches could be designed for comfort and performance, the experience varies considerably based on the preference for sound characteristics and tactile feedback. Users of the Ragdoll may appreciate the softer touch and deeper notes, while those inclined towards a sharper auditory experience may favor the Polaris Purple.
Ultimately, although both the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the Bsun Ragdoll are designed for effective performance and auditory satisfaction, they cater to different preferences by virtue of their material choices. If both switches were to utilize the same housing material, one would expect a more uniform sound profile and tactile response. However, since the Polaris Purple’s use of polycarbonate creates a more pronounced sound, especially in the top housing, while the Ragdoll’s nylon fosters a subdued acoustic signature, it is clear that the choice of materials plays a crucial role in defining the character of each switch. For users seeking an RGB-lit setup, the polycarbonate tops of the Polaris Purple would enhance visual vibrancy, while compatibility with RGB lighting would be less effective in the Ragdoll's opaque nylon.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch with the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The Polaris Purple has an unknown actuation force but a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is classified as medium-heavy. In contrast, the Ragdoll linear switch features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, placing it in the medium-light category. This makes the Ragdoll switch the lighter option overall, appealing to users looking for a more effortless typing experience during extended sessions, whether for work or gaming. Conversely, the heavier bottom out force of the Polaris Purple may attract those who prefer a more tactile and substantial feel when typing, providing a more pronounced resistance. Overall, the choice between these two switches depends on personal preferences for actuation and bottom out forces, with the Polaris Purple offering a heavier touch and Ragdoll providing a lighter, more easily triggered experience.
Travel distance
The SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch offers a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. This difference of 0.2 mm highlights the Polaris Purple's preference for a more substantial keypress, appealing to users who enjoy a deeper feel when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the Ragdoll’s shorter travel distance may cater to those seeking quicker response times, a characteristic often favored by gamers. Both switches provide a distinct tactile experience, but the Polaris Purple is the longer option, providing a heftier keypress, whereas the Ragdoll's shorter travel distance may feel more abrupt to some users. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches hinges on individual preference for either responsiveness or depth in key travel.
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 Bsun Ragdoll has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ragdoll for $3.29.
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 offers a balanced auditory experience, characterized by a snappy sound profile. Its neutrality allows it to cater to a broad audience, making it suitable for both work and leisure environments. The sound is not overly pronounced, ensuring it won't dominate a quiet office or disrupt a gaming session. In contrast, the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch is designed with a nylon-fiberglass bottom housing, which contributes to a clacky sound. This feature can provide a more engaging acoustic signature, especially appealing to those who enjoy a pronounced audio experience while typing. However, keep in mind that the overall sound will also depend on factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycap choice, making each switch unique in its final acoustic profile.
In terms of feel, the Polaris Purple is celebrated for its significant tactile bump, resulting in an exhilarating typing experience that many users find invigorating. The switch is characterized as mild, offering a gentle yet engaging sensation during use, and its polished finish enhances this experience by reducing friction for smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Ragdoll switch is known for its smooth actuation, thanks to the Y3 stem design. While specific descriptions of tactile feedback for the Ragdoll are not provided, linear switches typically lack the tactile feedback of tactile variants, potentially offering a more consistent and uninterrupted keystroke experience.
When considering the overall qualities of the SP-Star Polaris Purple and Bsun Ragdoll switches, they cater to different preferences within the mechanical keyboard community. The Polaris Purple appeals to users looking for a tactile and moderately sound-dampened typing experience, while the Ragdoll is better suited for those who prioritize a smooth, linear feel accompanied by a slightly more pronounced auditory feedback. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you want the exhilaration of tactile feedback or the consistency of a linear switch, as each brings its own set of advantages to your typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, your choice between the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch and the Bsun Ragdoll linear switch ultimately hinges on your typing preferences and the type of experience you seek. If you crave a tactile feedback with a pronounced bump that offers a more engaging and exhilarating typing experience, you should lean towards the Polaris Purple. Its medium-heavy actuation force of 67 grams complements the tactile experience, making it ideal for both heavy typists and those who enjoy a bit of resistance when pressing keys. Furthermore, the snappy sound profile adds a delightful auditory cue that can enhance your enjoyment during long typing sessions. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke that allows for quick and efficient typing without much resistance, the Ragdoll linear switch is your go-to option. Its lighter actuation force of 52 grams makes it perfect for rapid typing, while the nylon-fiberglass housing produces a satisfying clacky sound, ideal for creating a more playful atmosphere. Consider your typing style, whether you prefer tactile feedback or a linear feel, as well as the environment in which you’ll be using your keyboard, to make the best choice for your needs.
Mentioned in this article
