SP-Star Polaris Purple vs. Gazzew U4T
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the Gazzew U4T switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the Gazzew U4T. The Polaris Purple is praised for its exhilarating tactile typing experience, thanks to its prominent tactile bump. This switch offers a snappy sound profile and falls under the category of 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T presents a harmonious fusion of thockiness and sharp tactility. Known for its bassy 'thock' sound profile, this switch delivers an assertive tactile feedback that ensures both auditory and tactile satisfaction. It is categorized as 'Bassy', 'Thocky', and 'Sharp'. Both switches bring their own unique qualities to the table. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision on the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
Stainless steel 17.5mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The SP-Star Polaris Purple and Gazzew U4T differ in terms of their housing materials. The Polaris Purple utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate's stiffness, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the switch's sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T features a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing, often referred to as "boba plastic." This unique plastic blend delivers a rich and deep sound profile, attributed to its softness.
Similarly, the bottom housings of the Polaris Purple and U4T differ in material. The use of polycarbonate in the Polaris Purple's bottom housing contributes to its sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. As the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down, the polycarbonate material enhances these aspects. Conversely, the U4T's proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, known as "boba plastic," provides a softness that results in a rich and deep sound profile. This softness affects the bottom-out sound and feel, giving the U4T a distinct tactile experience.
While the top and bottom housings of the Polaris Purple and U4T offer different sound profiles, they share some similarities. Both switches have a focus on enhancing sound quality, with the Polaris Purple emphasizing clarity and resonance through its polycarbonate housings, and the U4T prioritizing richness and depth through its "boba plastic" blend. Additionally, both switches consider aesthetics, with the Polaris Purple's translucent polycarbonate accommodating RGB lighting, and the U4T's proprietary blend delivering an appealing and distinctive look. Ultimately, the choice between these housing materials depends on the desired sound profile and aesthetic preferences of the user.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch with the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play a crucial role. Unfortunately, the specific actuation force for both switches is unavailable. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, we can see some differences. The Polaris Purple requires 67 grams of force to bottom out, making it medium-heavy, while the U4T requires 62 grams, which is considered medium.
Considering weight or force is significant for different individuals based on their preferences and usage. Some users may prefer a lighter switch, as it allows them to type for extended periods without experiencing fatigue. This is advantageous for those who use keyboards extensively at work or during long gaming sessions. On the other hand, some individuals might prefer a more substantial typing experience that requires a stronger push feel. For these users, switches with heavier forces would be more suitable.
Although the actuation force remains unknown for both switches, we can assume that they will likely provide similar results as they are both tactile switches. Tactile switches typically offer a noticeable tactile bump when actuated, providing a satisfying feedback during keystrokes. Therefore, while the specific actuation force may differ, the overall experience of actuating the keys would be similar.
In terms of weight, the Polaris Purple can be considered slightly heavier due to its bottom out force of 67 grams, compared to the U4T's 62 grams. However, both switches fall within the medium to medium-heavy range, indicating that they may provide a reasonably balanced typing experience for those who prefer a tactile switch with a tactile bump and a bit of force feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the Gazzew U4T will depend on personal preferences for typing force and the desired tactile experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the Gazzew U4T tactile switches is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either switch, you will experience the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Therefore, both switches will provide similar results in terms of the travel distance felt when typing.
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 Gazzew U4T comes in at $6.50 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 offers a snappy sound profile. This means that the sound produced during each key press is moderate and balanced, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users in various environments, whether it's at home or in the workplace. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T switch provides a bassy 'thock' sound profile that is characterized by a deeper and richer tone. This gives each keystroke a satisfying auditory experience, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Both switches offer different sound profiles, so the choice ultimately depends on personal preference, the choice of keyboard, and the type of keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel, the SP-Star Polaris Purple switch offers a more mild typing experience. This switch has a gentle tactile feedback that is approachable for most users, not being too pronounced or aggressive. Additionally, the switch has a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. The reduced friction and smooth key travel provided by this switch adds to the overall comfort and satisfaction while typing. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T switch is known for its sharp tactile feedback. This means that each key press provides a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be distinctly felt. The intense tactile feedback of the U4T switch adds a level of responsiveness and precision to the typing experience. Again, the choice between the switches boils down to personal preference and the desired typing experience.
In conclusion, the SP-Star Polaris Purple and Gazzew U4T switches offer contrasting qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Polaris Purple switch provides a snappy sound profile and a mild typing experience with a polished finish, while the U4T switch offers a bassy 'thock' sound profile and sharp tactile feedback. Both switches have their own unique appeal and can deliver satisfactory results depending on the user's preferences. It is important to consider other factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps, as these can also impact the overall sound and feel. Ultimately, trying out both switches or seeking out more detailed reviews from users with similar preferences can help make an informed decision.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy switch with an exhilarating tactile typing experience and a snappy sound profile, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch would be a great choice for you. It offers a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work. Additionally, the Polaris Purple provides a mild and polished feel, offering a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a medium switch with a harmonious fusion of thockiness and sharp tactility, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch would be the better option. It offers a bassy 'thock' sound profile, paired with assertive tactile feedback, providing both auditory and tactile satisfaction. The U4T switch has a sharp and crisp tactile bump that can be felt distinctly with each keypress.
Ultimately, the choice between the Polaris Purple and the U4T switches will depend on your personal preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and feel. Consider whether you prefer a medium-heavy switch with an exhilarating typing experience and snappy sound, or a medium switch with a harmonious fusion of thockiness and sharp tactility. Assess how important the sound and feel aspects are to you, and make your decision accordingly.
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