SP-Star Polaris Purple vs. Gazzew U4

Overview

When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that often come up in discussions are the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the Gazzew U4. The Polaris Purple is a tactile switch that is best known for its exhilarating tactile typing experience, thanks to a big tactile bump. The sound profile of the Polaris Purple is described as snappy. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 is also a tactile switch but stands out for its silent operation, providing a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump while maintaining a whisper-quiet sound profile. What sets the U4 apart is its unexpectedly plush and felt-like bottom-out sensation. While these general pointers highlight some key differences between the two switches, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you decide on the best switch for your needs.

By the numbers

SP-Star Polaris Purple Tactile

Gazzew U4 Tactile

$5.60

$5.00 per 10

$6.50 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The housing materials used in the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the Gazzew U4 switches offer distinct characteristics that contribute to the overall sound profile and user experience. The Polaris Purple utilizes a polycarbonate material for both the top and bottom housings. This choice of material leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. It is a stiffer plastic, offering a clear and resonant sound when pressing down on the switch. Additionally, the polycarbonate's translucency is ideal for those planning to use RGB lighting, as it allows the lighting effects to shine through.

In contrast, the Gazzew U4 employs a proprietary Gazzew blend for both the top and bottom housings, sometimes referred to as "boba plastic." This unique plastic blend delivers a rich and deep sound profile due to its softness. When pressing down on the switch, the Gazzew blend contributes to a softer and more rounded bottom-out sound and feel. This softer plastic material adds a unique tactile experience for users who value a quieter and more cushioned typing experience.

While the Polaris Purple and Gazzew U4 have different housing materials, they both offer distinct advantages based on their respective properties. The polycarbonate used in the Polaris Purple provides a clear and resonant sound, while the Gazzew blend in the U4 offers a softer and quieter typing experience. However, it is worth noting that both switches consider the impact of the housing materials on the sound profile, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, whereas the top housing has a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, despite their material differences, both switches prioritize the overall sound quality and user experience.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. The Polaris Purple has an unavailable actuation force, while the U4 requires 43 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Polaris Purple requires 67 grams, which is considered medium-heavy, whereas the U4 requires 62 grams, which is medium.

In terms of weight, some individuals prefer a lighter switch, as it allows for longer typing sessions and is ideal for those who bring their keyboards to work or engage in extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may opt for a heavier switch, which provides a stronger push feel.

While the actuation force of the Polaris Purple is unknown, it can be inferred that it is heavier than the U4 due to its medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams. On the other hand, the U4 provides a lighter actuation force of 43 grams and a medium bottom out force of 62 grams.

Overall, individuals seeking a lighter typing experience may lean towards the U4, while those desiring a stronger and more substantial feel may prefer the Polaris Purple. However, it is worth mentioning that both switches offer similar results in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, as they both fall within the medium range.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch is 4 mm, while the travel distance of the Gazzew U4 tactile switch is 3.6 mm. In terms of comparison, the Polaris Purple has a slightly longer travel distance than the U4. The Polaris Purple's 4 mm distance falls under the category of a more traditional travel distance, providing a balance between depth and responsiveness. On the other hand, the U4's 3.6 mm distance is slightly shorter, which can be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. However, it's important to note that these preferences vary from person to person. While some individuals may find the shorter travel distance of the U4 more suitable for their needs, others might find it too abrupt. Those who prefer a more substantial depth and feel to their keystrokes may find the Polaris Purple, with its longer travel distance, to be a better fit. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific requirements of the user.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Polaris Purple and Gazzew U4 switches differ in their subjective qualities of sound and feel. The Polaris Purple switch provides a snappy sound profile that is considered neutral. This means that it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for most intents and purposes. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 switch offers a whisper quiet sound profile. It is described as muted, producing a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches. Additionally, the U4 has a low-pitched sound with a more bass-heavy and mellow tone.

In terms of feel, the Polaris Purple switch offers a mild tactile experience. It provides a gentle typing experience with qualities that stand in a safe, middle-ground zone. The switch is also described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that allows for reduced friction and smooth key travel. Conversely, the Gazzew U4 switch offers a sharp tactile experience. It has a strong and crisp tactile bump that is prominent and distinctly felt with each keypress.

Based on the available information, the Polaris Purple switch provides a exhilarating tactile typing experience with a snappy and neutral sound profile. It offers a mild and polished feel for a comfortable typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4 switch also offers an exhilarating tactile bump, but with a whisper quiet and low-pitched sound profile. It provides a sharp tactile feel with each keypress. Both switches offer a unique typing experience, so the choice between them would depend on personal preference for sound and feel.

Conclusion

To sum up, when choosing between the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch and the Gazzew U4 tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams and are looking for an exhilarating tactile typing experience with a snappy sound profile, then the Polaris Purple may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter bottom out force of 62 grams and enjoy a sharp and exhilarating tactile bump with an unexpectedly plush, felt-like bottom-out sensation, along with a whisper-quiet sound profile, then the Gazzew U4 may be the switch for you. Consider the sound profile as well, with the Polaris Purple being described as neutral and suitable for most purposes, while the U4 is muted and low-pitched for a softer and quieter typing experience. When it comes to feel, the Polaris Purple offers a mild and polished typing experience, while the U4 provides a sharp and intense tactile bump. Ultimately, the decision depends on your specific preferences for force, sound, and feel.

Mentioned in this article

SP-Star Polaris Purple Tactile

$5.60

$5.00 per 10

Learn more

Gazzew U4 Tactile

$6.50 per 10

Learn more