SP-Star Polaris Purple vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the KTT Strawberry. The Polaris Purple is a tactile switch, known for its exhilarating tactile typing experience. Its big tactile bump provides satisfying feedback with a snappy sound profile. On the other hand, the Strawberry is a linear switch that boasts smooth actuation and a comfortable feel. With its attractive pink and clear housings, it adds a touch of visual charm to any keyboard setup. Both switches offer reliable performance, but in different ways. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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 KTT Strawberry, both utilizing polycarbonate for their top and bottom housings, share several similarities. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it an ideal choice for keyboard switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the vibrant display of RGB lighting, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switches.
However, there are slight differences between the two switches regarding their housing materials. While both the Polaris Purple and the Strawberry utilize polycarbonate for their top and bottom housings, it is important to note that the qualities of each housing material will be split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing, being responsible for the bottom-out sound and feel, will have a more noticeable impact on the overall typing experience when pressing down on the key. On the other hand, the top housing will predominantly influence the sound produced when releasing a key.
In terms of functionality, both the Polaris Purple and the Strawberry benefit from the clear and resonant sound profile provided by their polycarbonate housing materials. The stiff nature of polycarbonate contributes to a more precise and defined sound, enhancing the auditory experience of users. Furthermore, the utilization of polycarbonate in their housings ensures a durable and long-lasting lifespan for these switches.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the KTT Strawberry, comprising polycarbonate for both top and bottom housings, offer similar advantages in terms of sound profile and durability. Although the focus of impact varies between the two switches, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing affecting the sound upon key release, both switches deliver impressive sound performance. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate enables the switches to showcase vibrant RGB lighting.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, there are distinct differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Polaris Purple's actuation force is listed as unavailable, while the Strawberry requires 43 grams for actuation. In terms of bottom out force, the Polaris Purple has a heavier 67-gram requirement, while the Strawberry is slightly lighter at 62 grams. This means that the Polaris Purple provides a more substantial typing experience with a heavier bottom out force, while the Strawberry offers a slightly lighter touch. However, since the actuation force for the Polaris Purple is not available, it is difficult to compare the two switches directly. Overall, the weight of the switches is worth considering depending on individual preference and use case. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or long gaming sessions may lean towards the Strawberry, while those desiring a stronger push feel may find the Polaris Purple to be more suitable.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch is an important factor to consider when choosing a keyboard. In the case of the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience the same 4 mm of travel distance. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches offer similar results. It is worth noting that the 4 mm travel distance of these switches falls within the average range commonly found in mechanical keyboards. So, whether you opt for the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch or the KTT Strawberry linear switch, you can expect a comfortable and consistent travel distance when typing or gaming.
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 KTT Strawberry comes in at $4.91 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 well-known for its exhilarating tactile typing experience, thanks to its big tactile bump. The sound profile of the Polaris Purple is described as snappy, providing a satisfying auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry linear switch is beloved for its smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance. It features an attractive pink and clear housing.
In terms of sound, the Polaris Purple can be categorized as a neutral switch, which means it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile. This makes it suitable for both beginners and advanced users, and can be used in various settings, whether at home or work. The Strawberry switch, on the other hand, has a low-pitched sound profile. These switches tend to have a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches.
When it comes to the feel, the Polaris Purple offers a mild typing experience with its gentle tactile bump. It falls in the safe, middle-ground zone, making it approachable for most users. Additionally, the switch is polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience. This is achieved through the materials used and/or the factory lubrication, providing reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Strawberry switch, on the other hand, is described as frictionless, offering an extremely smooth and effortless typing experience with minimal resistance or friction. It can be considered silky and buttery, providing an exceptionally smooth and fluid keystroke experience for a seamless and uniform typing sensation.
In conclusion, the Polaris Purple and the KTT Strawberry switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Polaris Purple provides an exhilarating tactile typing experience with a snappy sound profile, while the KTT Strawberry offers a smooth actuation with a low-pitched sound. Both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. Depending on the individual's preference for tactile feedback and sound profile, they can choose between the Polaris Purple or the KTT Strawberry to achieve similar quality and satisfaction in their mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile typing experience with a satisfying bump, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch would be a great choice for you. The medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams provides a solid and substantial feel while typing. Additionally, the snappy sound profile adds to the overall enjoyable typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and more effortless typing experience, the KTT Strawberry linear switch is the way to go. With a bottom out force of 62 grams, this switch falls into the medium category, offering a comfortable feel without being too heavy. The delectable Strawberries are loved for their smooth actuation and reliable performance, making them a popular choice for users seeking a seamless typing sensation.
In terms of sound, the Polaris Purple is described as neutral, making it suitable for most scenarios, whether you're a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use the keyboard at home or work. On the other hand, the Strawberry provides a low-pitched sound profile, featuring a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches.
When it comes to the feel, the Polaris Purple offers a mild and polished typing experience. The mild switch qualities provide a gentle typing experience that will be approachable to most users, while the polished finish ensures reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Strawberry provides a frictionless, silky, and buttery feel, enhancing the overall smoothness and minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Additionally, the Strawberry also features a polished finish, offering reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, your choice between the SP-Star Polaris Purple and KTT Strawberry switches will depend on your personal preferences. If you value a tactile typing experience with a satisfying bump and a snappy sound, the Polaris Purple is the way to go. However, if you prefer a smoother and more effortless typing experience with a low-pitched sound, the Strawberry is the better option. Both switches offer their unique qualities and it's up to you to determine which one aligns with your typing preferences and needs.
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