SP-Star Polaris Purple vs. TTC Venus
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the TTC Venus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, one must consider their distinct characteristics. The Polaris Purple offers a tactile typing experience with a noticeable bump and a snappy sound profile, catering to those who prefer a more pronounced feedback while typing. On the other hand, the TTC Venus stands out for its unique internal design that provides a smooth and engaging typing experience with a light actuation force and a muted sound signature. The Venus switch is praised for its "Q-texture" and almost frictionless glide, making it ideal for those who prioritize a seamless and effortless typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
52g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
Lengthened 20.5mm spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the TTC Venus differ in their top housing materials. The Polaris Purple features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate plastic, leading to a more resonant sound. In contrast, the Venus has a POM top housing, which produces a deeper and more muted sound profile. While both materials offer unique sound characteristics, the polycarbonate top housing of the Polaris Purple may be more suited for those who prefer a clearer and sharper sound.
On the other hand, the bottom housing materials of the two switches are the same, both being made of polycarbonate. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Aesthetically speaking, polycarbonate is commonly used in clear housings, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting options. Therefore, both the Polaris Purple and the Venus benefit from the qualities of polycarbonate in their bottom housing. This shared material choice ensures that both switches deliver a consistent sound profile and feel when pressed down.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in mechanical keyboard switches plays a crucial role in determining the sound profile and feel of each keystroke. While the Polaris Purple and Venus differ in their top housing material, they both utilize polycarbonate for their bottom housing. This ensures that both switches offer a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile when pressed. Whether you prefer the unique sound of POM or the clarity of polycarbonate, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience with their carefully chosen housing materials.
Weight
In comparing the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, it is evident that they have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Polaris Purple has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, while its actuation force is not specified. On the other hand, the Venus switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a medium-light bottom out force of 52 grams. Due to the lack of information on the actuation force of the Polaris Purple, it is difficult to determine how it compares to the Venus in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke. In general, a lighter actuation force is preferred for extended typing sessions, while a heavier force provides a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Venus linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the typical range of travel distances for mechanical keyboard switches, with 4 mm being a more traditional distance and 3.8 mm being slightly shorter. Gamers may prefer the Venus switch for its faster response time due to the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing may opt for the Polaris Purple switch with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
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 TTC Venus has an MSRP of $7.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Venus for $5.09.
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
When it comes to sound, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch offers a neutral profile, making it suitable for various settings and users. On the other hand, the TTC Venus linear switch presents a low-pitched, muted, and subdued sound, providing a quieter typing experience that is ideal for those looking for a more discreet option. Both switches offer distinct sound characteristics that cater to different preferences, with the Polaris Purple leaning towards a moderate profile and the Venus offering a softer, bass-heavy tone.
Regarding feel, the Polaris Purple switch is described as mild and polished, providing a gentle and smooth typing experience that falls within a safe middle-ground zone. In comparison, the TTC Venus linear switch offers a buttery, gummy, frictionless feel that ensures a seamless and effortless keystroke with minimal resistance or friction. Both switches deliver unique tactile sensations, with the Polaris Purple focusing on a refined and approachable typing experience, while the Venus showcases a smoother and more fluid key travel that appeals to users seeking a more effortless typing sensation.
In conclusion, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch and the TTC Venus linear switch offer distinctive qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Polaris Purple provides a snappy sound profile and a polished, mild typing feel, while the Venus delivers a low-pitched, muted sound and a buttery, gummy, frictionless typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between these two switches to enhance their typing experience with either a more moderate and tactile response or a smoother and quieter operation. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different user preferences, ensuring a satisfying and engaging typing experience regardless of the choice made.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch and the TTC Venus linear switch, consider the typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a tactile typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a snappy sound profile, then the Polaris Purple would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a lighter bottom out force, a unique "Q-texture" feel, and a muted sound signature that provides a smooth and engaging typing experience, then the TTC Venus would be the way to go. Overall, your decision should be based on whether you prefer a tactile or linear typing experience, as well as the specific sound and feel characteristics that match your personal preferences. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that best suits your typing style and preferences.
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