SP-Star Polaris Purple vs. TKC Tangerine
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the TKC Tangerine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are countless options to choose from. Two popular switches that offer different typing experiences are the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the TKC Tangerine. The Polaris Purple is a tactile switch that is best known for its exhilarating tactile typing experience. With a big tactile bump, each keystroke provides a satisfying feedback that many typists enjoy. Additionally, the Polaris Purple has a snappy sound profile and falls under the category of 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Tangerine is a linear switch that elevates your typing experience to the next level. Its smooth feel makes every keystroke a true pleasure, thanks in part to the rare UHWMPE housings. However, typing on the Tangerine switch results in a fairly high-pitched clack. The Tangerine switch can be categorized as 'Frictionless', 'Buttery', 'High-pitched', and 'Polished'. With these general pointers in mind, let's dive deeper into the specifics of each switch so you can make an informed decision on the best switch for your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the TKC Tangerine switches have distinct differences. The Polaris Purple utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housing, while the Tangerine employs UHWMPE for both its top and bottom housing as well. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for those seeking a clear and resonant sound while typing. Additionally, its translucency is advantageous for those who plan to use RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Tangerine's UHWMPE housing offers a very bright sound signature, resulting in resonant clacks during typing. This material is relatively new for switch housings and provides an alternative sound experience for users.
Considering the top and bottom housings of the switches individually, they each contribute unique qualities to the overall typing experience. When pressing down on the Polaris Purple switch, the bottom housing made of polycarbonate will influence the bottom-out sound and feel. The relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound, delivering a distinct tactile sensation. Conversely, when releasing a key, it is the top housing that plays a more prominent role in sound production. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing ensures a sharper sound profile, creating an audible differentiation when compared to the Tangerine switch.
On the other hand, the Tangerine switch's UHWMPE housing brings its own set of qualities to both the pressing and releasing actions. Similar to the Polaris Purple's polycarbonate bottom housing, the UHWMPE bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel. The distinct bright sound signature provided by the UHWMPE adds resonance and character to each keystroke. When releasing a key, the Tangerine's UHWMPE top housing further enhances the sound experience, producing resonant clacks that are characteristic of this material.
In summary, while the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the TKC Tangerine switches share similarities in terms of their respective top and bottom housing materials, they offer distinct characteristics and sound profiles. The Polaris Purple's polycarbonate housing provides a sharp and crisp sound, whereas the Tangerine's UHWMPE housing offers a bright sound signature with resonant clacks. The differences in their housing materials result in unique typing experiences, allowing users to choose the switch that aligns with their preference for sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, we find that the Polaris Purple has an actuation force of unavailable grams, while the Tangerine also has an actuation force of unavailable grams. Both switches have an unknown actuation force, so we can expect similar results in terms of keystroke triggering. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Polaris Purple requires 67 grams of force, which can be considered medium-heavy, while the Tangerine requires 62 grams of force, which is categorized as medium.
Considering the weight of the switches, some individuals may prefer a lighter option like the Tangerine switch. A lighter switch allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue, making it ideal for prolonged use in work or gaming scenarios. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience might opt for the Polaris Purple switch, which requires a heavier bottom out force. This heavier force can provide a satisfying push feel, adding a sense of solidity to each keystroke.
In summary, while both switches have unknown actuation forces, we can anticipate similar outcomes in terms of triggering keystrokes. The main difference lies in the bottom out force, with the Polaris Purple being heavier at 67 grams and the Tangerine being lighter at 62 grams. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with some users favoring a lighter typing experience for extended use and others opting for a heavier force for a more substantial feel.
Travel distance
Both the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch and the TKC Tangerine linear 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 feel the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, you can expect similar results from both switches.
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 TKC Tangerine comes in at $6.30 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
In terms of sound, the SP-Star Polaris Purple switch is known for its snappy sound profile. This means that when typing on these switches, you can expect a satisfying click that is neither too loud nor too soft. On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine switch has a high-pitched clack sound. This produces a sharp and crisp noise when pressed, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more distinctive sound. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also vary depending on other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the SP-Star Polaris Purple switch provides an exhilarating tactile typing experience. The big tactile bump on these switches offers a noticeable feedback with each keypress, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a pronounced tactile feel. Additionally, the Polaris Purple switch also falls under the category of a polished switch. This means that it has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the TKC Tangerine switch offers an incredibly smooth feel. With the help of UHWMPE housings, which are quite rare in the world of mechanical switches, each keystroke becomes a pleasure. The Tangerine switch can be described as frictionless, providing an effortless and fluid typing experience. Furthermore, it is also considered a buttery switch, implying a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation that is uniform throughout.
In conclusion, while the Polaris Purple and Tangerine switches differ in their subjective qualities, they both offer unique and enjoyable typing experiences. If you prefer a tactile typing feel with a moderate sound profile, the Polaris Purple switch is an excellent choice. However, if you lean towards a smoother and more frictionless typing experience with a distinctive high-pitched sound, the Tangerine switch would be the way to go. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch would be the best choice for you. Its big tactile bump provides an exhilarating typing experience and the sound profile is snappy. Additionally, the Polaris Purple has a neutral sound profile and a mild and polished feel, making it suitable for most purposes.
On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a medium bottom out force, the TKC Tangerine linear switch would be the ideal option. It offers an incredibly smooth feel with each keystroke being a pleasure to type. The UHWMPE housings contribute to its smooth typing experience, and although it produces a fairly high-pitched clack, it provides a sharp and crisp sound when pressed.
Ultimately, the choice between the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the TKC Tangerine depends on your preferred typing experience. If you prioritize a tactile feel and neutral sound profile, go for the Polaris Purple. However, if you prefer a smooth and effortless typing experience with a high-pitched sound, the Tangerine is the way to go. Both switches offer a polished feel, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel. It's all about personal preference and finding the right switch that suits your typing style and preferences.
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