SP-Star Polaris Purple vs. TTC Silent Frozen (V2)
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are two standout options that offer unique experiences: the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the TTC Silent Frozen. The Polaris Purple is a tactile switch that is best known for its exhilarating tactile typing experience, thanks to a big tactile bump. Additionally, its snappy sound profile adds to the overall satisfaction. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen is a linear switch that stands out for its extremely quiet sound profile. In addition to being silent, these switches offer a super smooth typing experience with a pillowy type feel. The Polaris Purple falls under the categories of neutral, mild, and polished, while the Silent Frozen can be described as thocky, low-pitched, creamy, buttery, muted, feathery, subtle, and polished. However, 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
39g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
Silver white spring
Housing materials
The SP-Star Polaris Purple and the TTC Silent Frozen both utilize polycarbonate as their housing material for both the top and bottom housings. This means that they will share many similarities in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it a popular choice for switch housings. Additionally, the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant sound profile, which enhances the overall typing experience.
With regards to aesthetics, both switches feature clear housings, which are often associated with polycarbonate material. This transparency adds a visually appealing element, particularly if you intend to use RGB lighting. The translucency of polycarbonate allows the lighting to shine through, creating vibrant and dynamic effects.
However, if the top and bottom housings of a switch are different, the qualities of the housing material will be distributed. The impact and sound when pressing down on a key will be influenced by the bottom housing, while the sound when releasing the key will be influenced by the top housing. This means that depending on the specific design of the switches, there may be slight variations in sound and feel between the Polaris Purple and the Silent Frozen.
In conclusion, while both the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the TTC Silent Frozen share the use of polycarbonate for their top and bottom housings, they may have slight differences in the distribution of sound and feel due to the specific design of each switch. Nonetheless, they will provide similar results in terms of a sharper, higher-pitched, crisper sound profile and the aesthetic appeal of a clear housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch and the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch, there are significant differences between the two. The Polaris Purple has an unavailable actuation force, making it unclear how much force is required to trigger a keystroke. In contrast, the Silent Frozen has a lower actuation force of 39 grams, making it lighter and easier to activate.
In terms of bottom out force, the Polaris Purple measures at a medium-heavy 67 grams, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen has a lighter bottom out force of 43 grams, allowing for a softer and less forceful typing experience.
Considering weight as a factor, those who prefer a lighter switch may appreciate the lower actuation force of the Silent Frozen, as it enables longer periods of typing without fatigue. This makes it suitable for work environments or extended gaming sessions. On the contrary, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience might opt for the Polaris Purple, as its heavier bottom out force provides a satisfying tactile feedback.
In conclusion, the actuation and bottom out forces of the SP-Star Polaris Purple and TTC Silent Frozen differ significantly. The Silent Frozen is lighter in both aspects, offering a lighter typing experience overall. The Polaris Purple, on the other hand, offers a heavier and more substantial keystroke for those who prefer a stronger push feel.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch is 4 mm, while the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. This means that the Polaris Purple has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Silent Frozen. A 4.0 mm travel distance is more traditional, providing a standard experience for users. On the other hand, a 3.5 mm travel distance is slightly shallower, offering a quicker response time, which is favored by gamers. The shorter travel distance of the Silent Frozen switch allows for faster and more reactive keystrokes. However, for those who prefer a deeper and more satisfying key press, the Polaris Purple with its 4.0 mm travel distance would be the better choice. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
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 TTC Silent Frozen (V2) has an MSRP of $8.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Frozen (V2) for $5.33.
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 Polaris Purple switch is known for its exhilarating tactile typing experience, with a big tactile bump that provides a satisfying and tactile feel. In terms of sound, it is described as having a neutral profile, which means it has a moderate sound profile suitable for most purposes. The sound of the Polaris Purple is described as snappy, adding to the overall typing experience. Additionally, the switch is described as having a polished feel, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the TTC Silent Frozen switch is characterized by its extremely quiet sound profile. It is described as thocky, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed, similar to a soft "knock" or a deep "thud". The switch is also described as low-pitched, featuring a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. The Silent Frozen switch is known for its super smooth feel, offering a pillowy type sensation when typing. It is described as creamy and buttery, providing a silky and effortless keystroke experience. The switch is also feathery, meaning it is exceptionally light to press and requires little exertion from the fingers, reducing fatigue.
Based on the available information, the Polaris Purple and TTC Silent Frozen switches offer different subjective qualities. The Polaris Purple provides an exhilarating tactile typing experience with a moderate sound profile and polished feel. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Frozen switch offers an extremely quiet sound profile, thocky sound, and a super smooth, creamy, and feathery typing experience. Both switches provide unique qualities that cater to different preferences. If you are looking for a tactile typing experience with a moderate sound, you might lean towards the Polaris Purple. If you prioritize a quiet and smooth typing experience, the TTC Silent Frozen switch would be a suitable choice. Overall, it is important to consider your personal preferences and the specific requirements of your typing needs to make an informed decision.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a mechanical keyboard switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a big tactile bump for an exhilarating typing experience, the SP-Star Polaris Purple switch is a great choice. It offers a snappy sound profile and a mild feel that is approachable to most users. On the other hand, if you prioritize a light bottom out force and an extremely quiet sound profile, the TTC Silent Frozen switch is the way to go. It provides a pillowy type feel and a variety of sound characteristics including a thocky, low-pitched, and muted sound. The Silent Frozen switch is also known for its creamy, buttery, feathery, and subtle feel, which offers a smooth and effortless typing sensation. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your preferences in terms of bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. Consider your desired typing experience and choose the switch that aligns with your needs.
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