SP-Star Polaris Purple vs. Dareu Sky V3
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the Dareu Sky V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the Dareu Sky V3 offer unique experiences for users. The Polaris Purple is a tactile switch known for its exhilarating typing experience, thanks to its big tactile bump and snappy sound profile. On the other hand, the Dareu Sky V3 is a linear switch that provides a neutral sound signature and medium-light weight, making it popular among users looking for a balance of comfort and precision. While the Polaris Purple is categorized as neutral, mild, and polished, the Sky V3 falls under neutral, subdued, and mild. Both switches have their own strengths and appeal to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to personal choice. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
40g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the Dareu Sky V3 share similar features when it comes to their top housing being made of polycarbonate. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness, which leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. However, where they differ is in their bottom housing material. The Polaris Purple's polycarbonate bottom housing will contribute to the sound profile with its stiffness, while the Sky V3's nylon bottom housing will provide a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer nature.
The use of polycarbonate in both the top and bottom housing of the SP-Star Polaris Purple ensures consistency in sound profile throughout the switch. The stiffness of the polycarbonate creates a clear and resonant sound both when pressing down on the key and when releasing it. In contrast, the Dareu Sky V3's combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing creates a unique sound dynamic. While the polycarbonate top housing will still provide a sharper sound, the nylon bottom housing will add a deeper and fuller tone to the overall sound profile of the switch.
Overall, the choice between the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the Dareu Sky V3 will come down to personal preference in sound profile. The Polaris Purple's polycarbonate housing offers a consistently sharp and crisp sound, while the Sky V3's combination of polycarbonate and nylon provides a more varied and dynamic sound experience. Both switches have their strengths, with the Polaris Purple excelling in clarity and sharpness, and the Sky V3 offering a deeper and fuller sound. Ultimately, it will depend on what type of sound profile the user is looking for in their mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, it is evident that the Polaris Purple has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, while the actuation force is not specified. On the other hand, the Sky V3 has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams, with an unknown bottom out force. The Polaris Purple is heavier in terms of bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. In contrast, the Sky V3 is lighter, making it ideal for longer typing sessions or extended gaming periods. Both switches offer different weight options to cater to individual preferences, ensuring that users can find the perfect balance between actuation force and bottom out force for their typing needs.
Travel distance
The SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch both have a travel distance of 4mm. This means that pressing down on both switches will result in a similar key travel experience, as they both require the same amount of distance to actuate. The similarity in travel distance suggests that users can expect comparable typing experiences in terms of key feel and responsiveness. However, it is worth noting that while both switches offer the same travel distance, they may vary in terms of actuation force and tactile feedback, leading to differences in typing feel and feedback despite the equal travel distance. Overall, in terms of travel distance, both switches offer a consistent 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 Dareu Sky V3 has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sky V3 for $4.76.
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, both the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch are classified as having a neutral sound profile. This means they have a moderate sound level that is suitable for various typing environments, whether you are a beginner or an advanced user. However, the Sky V3 is also noted to have a subdued sound, which offers a more dampened and subtle sound signature compared to most switches. Ultimately, the sound produced by each switch will also depend on factors such as the keyboard layout and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, both the Polaris Purple and the Sky V3 switches are described as providing a mild typing experience. This means they offer a gentle and approachable feel that will cater to most users. Additionally, the Polaris Purple switch is noted for its polished feel, indicating a smoother and more refined typing experience due to materials used or factory lubrication. This translates to reduced friction and smoother key travel. The Sky V3, on the other hand, does not have this specific descriptor but still falls within the mild category for typing experience.
In conclusion, both the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch share similarities in their sound and feel qualities. They both offer a neutral sound profile suitable for various settings and provide a mild typing experience that is comfortable for most users. Whether you choose the Polaris Purple for its exhilarating tactile bump or the Sky V3 for its balance of comfort and precision, you can expect comparable results in terms of sound and feel based on the information provided.
Conclusion
Therefore, when choosing between the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch and the Dareu Sky V3 linear switch, consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a tactile typing experience with a satisfying bump and snappy sound profile, the Polaris Purple may be the ideal choice for you. However, if you prefer a more neutral sound signature with a medium-light weight and widespread acclaim for comfort and precision, the Dareu Sky V3 could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences in terms of typing feel and sound profile.
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