SP-Star Polaris Purple vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the Gateron Smoothie offer two distinct experiences for users. The Polaris Purple is a tactile switch that is known for its exhilarating tactile typing experience and snappy sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie is a linear switch made of POM material, providing a thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch. While the Polaris Purple offers a satisfying tactile feedback, the Gateron Smoothie stands out for its unique materials and smooth operation. 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
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
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the Gateron Smoothie, the Polaris Purple boasts a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Smoothie features a POM top and bottom housing, which produces an incredibly pleasing and unique sound profile that is deeper and more muted than polycarbonate.
One key difference between the two housing materials is the sound profile they create. While the Polaris Purple's polycarbonate housing results in a sharper and more resonant sound, the Smoothie's POM housing leans towards a deeper and more muted sound profile. The choice between these two materials may ultimately come down to personal preference in sound. Additionally, the impact of the bottom and top housings on the overall feel and sound of the switch differs, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has more of an impact when releasing a key.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the Gateron Smoothie, both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. If a user is looking for a sharper, crisper sound, the polycarbonate housing of the Polaris Purple may be the ideal choice. Conversely, those seeking a deeper and more muted sound may find the POM housing of the Smoothie more to their liking. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual sound preferences and desired typing experience.
Weight
The SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch have distinct differences when it comes to actuation and bottom out forces. The Polaris Purple has an actuation force of None grams, meaning it requires no specific force to trigger a keystroke, and a bottom out force of 67 grams, which falls under the medium-heavy category. On the other hand, the Smoothie has an actuation force of 40 grams, making it lighter in comparison to the Polaris Purple, and a bottom out force of None grams, which is not specified. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Smoothie would be the more suitable option, as the lower actuation force allows for a smoother keystroke. However, for individuals who prefer a more substantial typing feel, the Polaris Purple with its heavier bottom out force may be the preferred choice. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Gateron Smoothie linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Polaris Purple offers a more traditional travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a deeper keypress feel. On the other hand, the Smoothie's shorter travel distance could be more suitable for gamers looking for faster response times. Both switches offer unique advantages, with the Polaris Purple providing a longer keypress depth and the Smoothie offering a quicker response. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for keypress feel and response time.
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 Gateron Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie for $2.60.
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 more neutral sound profile that is suitable for a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch produces a thocky, low-pitched, and subdued sound that is deep, rich, and satisfying. The choice between the two would ultimately depend on personal preference, with the Polaris Purple providing a more balanced sound and the Smoothie offering a unique and distinct thocky sound signature.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Polaris Purple is described as offering a mild and polished typing experience, showcasing a gentle typing feel and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch is characterized as buttery, creamy, and silky, providing a seamless, effortless, and exceptionally smooth typing experience. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable and enjoyable typing feel, but the Smoothie stands out for its buttery and silky qualities that enhance the overall smoothness of each keystroke.
In conclusion, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. The Polaris Purple provides a neutral sound profile and a polished typing experience, while the Smoothie excels in producing a thocky sound and offering a buttery and silky typing feel. Ultimately, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience, and choosing between them would depend on whether you prefer a more balanced sound and feel or a unique thocky and smooth typing sensation.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you enjoy a tactile typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a snappy sound profile, the Polaris Purple may be the choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a thocky, low-pitched sound with a smooth and buttery typing sensation and a lighter touch, the Gateron Smoothie could be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what sound and feel you prefer while typing, as both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences.
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