SP-Star Polaris Purple vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two notable options to consider are the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the SP-Star Duck, both of which are tactile switches. The Polaris Purple is known for its exhilarating, big tactile bump, resulting in a thrilling typing experience. The sound profile of these switches is snappy, adding to the overall tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Duck switches offer a more subtle tactile typing experience, making them ideal for those seeking a gentler sensation. The sound profile of the Duck switches is clean and crispy, enhancing the overall typing experience. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities to help you make an informed decision about which switch is best suited for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
58g
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
Standard
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the SP-Star Duck, specifically their polycarbonate top and bottom housings, share many similarities. Both utilize polycarbonate, a stiff plastic that enhances the sound profile of the switches. Polycarbonate creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, offering a clear and resonant experience. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, as it allows for vibrant illumination.
However, despite these similarities, there may be slight differences in the sound and feel of the switches due to the distribution of the housing materials. In switches where the top and bottom housings differ, the unique qualities brought by each housing material are separate. When pressing down on these switches, the impact and resulting sound and feel will be influenced by the bottom housing. Conversely, the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, while both switches benefit from polycarbonate in their housings, the distribution of this material may lead to nuanced variations in user experience.
In summary, the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the SP-Star Duck share the use of polycarbonate in their top and bottom housings, resulting in similar sound profiles characterized by sharpness, higher pitches, and crispness. The translucent nature of polycarbonate appeals aesthetically and enhances RGB lighting effects. However, if the two switches have different housing materials for the top and bottom, their respective qualities will affect the way they sound and feel during key presses and release. Overall, the presence of polycarbonate contributes to both switches' notable sound profiles, but the distribution of this material may bring subtle distinctions in user experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, it is important to consider weight as a deciding factor. However, as the actuation force for both switches is unavailable, it is difficult to make a direct comparison. Nonetheless, the bottom out force for the Polaris Purple is 67 grams, which can be considered medium-heavy, while the Duck has a bottom out force of 58 grams, which is classified as medium.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Duck switch may be more suitable as it has a slightly lighter bottom out force. This allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue, making it ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial push feel for a satisfying typing experience might lean towards the Polaris Purple. With its medium-heavy bottom out force, this switch provides a stronger resistance, offering a tactile and robust typing experience.
In summary, while the actuation force for both switches is unknown, the Polaris Purple has a heavier bottom out force compared to the Duck. Consequently, those seeking a lighter typing experience may prefer the Duck, while individuals desiring a stronger push feel may gravitate towards the Polaris Purple.
Travel distance
Both the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same 4 mm distance of travel. Therefore, both switches offer a similar tactile feedback and typing experience. Whether you choose the Polaris Purple or the Duck, you can expect to have a comfortable and responsive typing experience with a consistent travel distance.
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 SP-Star Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck for $5.40.
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
In terms of sound, both the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch are described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that they have a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making them suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced typist, and regardless of whether you are using them at home or work. It is worth noting that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, both switches offer a mild typing experience, which provides a more gentle tactile feedback compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. This makes them approachable to most users, as their qualities fall in a safe and middle-ground zone. Additionally, both switches are described as polished, meaning they have a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience. This can be attributed to either the materials used or factory lubing, which reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel.
Overall, both the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the SP-Star Duck tactile switches provide a satisfying tactile typing experience with their respective qualities. The Polaris Purple offers a big tactile bump for an exhilarating experience, while the Duck offers a more subtle tactility. In terms of sound, both switches have a neutral profile, making them suitable for most users. Both switches also have a mild feel and polished finish, ensuring a smooth and comfortable typing experience. Therefore, whether you choose the Polaris Purple or the Duck, you can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel, with slight differences in the level of tactility.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the SP-Star Polaris Purple would be a great choice. Its big tactile bump provides an exhilarating typing experience, and the sound profile is snappy. Additionally, the Polaris Purple has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for most intents and purposes. In terms of feel, the Polaris Purple offers a mild and polished typing experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle tactile typing experience with a medium bottom out force, the SP-Star Duck switches would be perfect for you. These switches provide a gentle tactility when typing, and the sound profile is clean and crispy. Similar to the Polaris Purple, the Duck switches have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various purposes.
In terms of feel, the Duck switches offer a mild and buttery typing experience. They provide a smooth and fluid keystroke, resulting in a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Additionally, like the Polaris Purple, the Duck switches have a polished finish, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the SP-Star Polaris Purple and Duck switches depends on your preference for bottom out force and the typing experience you're seeking. Both switches offer a neutral sound profile and a mild typing experience, with the Polaris Purple offering a slightly heavier bottom out force and a snappier sound profile, while the Duck switches provide a more subtle tactility and a clean and crispy sound profile. Consider your personal preferences and typing style to make the best choice for your mechanical keyboard.
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