SP-Star Polaris Purple vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to find the one that suits your typing preferences and needs. Two popular options in the tactile switch category are the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the Outemu Red Panda. The Polaris Purple is known for its exhilarating tactile typing experience, thanks to its big tactile bump. The sound profile is described as snappy, making for an enjoyable typing experience. On the other hand, the Red Panda offers a light-medium amount of tactility, accompanied by a unique combination of sounds. The bottom-out sound is described as bassier, resembling raindrops, while the top-out sound is clackier and higher-pitched. While these general characteristics can be helpful in determining your preference, let's dive deeper into the specifics to help you make the best decision for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the Outemu Red Panda switches are quite similar as they both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice of material leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially beneficial for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows for better diffusion and visibility of the lighting effects. Therefore, the sound and aesthetic experience provided by the polycarbonate top housing in both switches would be fairly comparable.
However, one key point of contrast lies in the bottom housing material. The Polaris Purple features a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to the overall sound profile of the switch. Its relatively stiffer nature enhances the clear and resonant characteristics of the switch's sound. On the other hand, the Red Panda utilizes a nylon bottom housing. While nylon is a softer plastic, it absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Therefore, the Red Panda's use of nylon for the bottom housing creates a somewhat different auditory experience compared to the Polaris Purple.
It is worth noting that the qualities of the housing materials are split between the top and bottom of the switch, impacting different aspects of the typing experience. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the key. Meanwhile, the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while both switches may offer similar sound characteristics derived from their polycarbonate top housings, the division in housing materials may result in varying nuances in the overall typing experience between the Polaris Purple and Red Panda switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The Polaris Purple has an actuation force of unavailable grams, while the Red Panda has an actuation force of 50 grams. This means that the Red Panda requires slightly less force to register a keystroke compared to the Polaris Purple. In terms of bottom out force, the Polaris Purple has a heavier bottom out force of 67 grams, while the Red Panda has a bottom out force of 60 grams. This indicates that the Polaris Purple provides a more substantial typing experience with a slightly heavier push feel when compared to the Red Panda.
When considering weight, it's worth noting that some users prefer lighter switches for extended typing periods or long gaming sessions. In this case, the Red Panda with its lighter actuation and bottom out force may be a more suitable choice. However, for those who enjoy a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience, the Polaris Purple's heavier forces may be preferred. It is important to consider personal preferences and typing style when deciding between these switches. Overall, both switches offer different levels of actuation and bottom out forces, providing users with the opportunity to select the option that best suits their typing needs.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, there is a notable difference. The Polaris Purple has a travel distance of 4mm, which is a more traditional and slightly longer distance. On the other hand, the Red Panda has a travel distance of 3.3mm, making it a shorter option. The choice between the two largely depends on personal preference and the specific use case. Gamers, for instance, may prefer the Red Panda's shorter travel distance for faster response times, while others may find the longer 4mm travel distance of the Polaris Purple to provide a more satisfying depth. In any case, both switches offer their own advantages and it is important to consider individual preferences when making a decision. Ultimately, the decision between the two will result in different typing experiences, but both switches will ultimately provide satisfactory results.
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 Red Panda comes in at $3.40 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
The SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch is best known for its exhilarating tactile typing experience. It has a big tactile bump that provides a satisfying feedback when typing. In terms of sound, the Polaris Purple is described as having a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement. This means that it has a moderate sound profile suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, using the switch at home or work. The feel of the Polaris Purple switch is described as mild and polished. It offers a gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics, and the smooth and refined finish results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch is best known for its light-medium amount of tactility and a unique sound profile. When typing on these switches, a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound and a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound can be heard. The sound profile of the Red Panda is described as thocky, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. The feel of the Red Panda switch is also described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience similar to the Polaris Purple switch.
Based on the available information, the Polaris Purple and Red Panda switches both offer a similar mild tactile feel, making them approachable and suitable for most users. However, they differ in terms of sound. The Polaris Purple has a neutral sound profile, while the Red Panda has a thocky sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired sound experience. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a medium-heavy switch with a exhilarating tactile typing experience and a snappy sound profile, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch would be a great choice. It has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which provides a satisfying amount of resistance. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium switch with a light-medium amount of tactility, a bassier bottom-out sound, and a clackier top-out sound, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch would be a better option. With a bottom out force of 60 grams, it offers a slightly lighter typing experience. In terms of sound, the Polaris Purple is described as neutral, making it suitable for most purposes, while the Red Panda produces a thocky sound, which is deep and satisfying. Both switches offer a mild typing experience, but the Polaris Purple is also described as polished, providing a smooth and refined feel. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you're looking for.
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