SP-Star Polaris Purple vs. HMX Vintage Citrus
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the HMX Vintage Citrus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the decision often boils down to personal preference and intended use. The SP-Star Polaris Purple is a tactile switch celebrated for its pronounced tactile bump, which delivers an exhilarating typing experience that many find satisfying, particularly for typing-intensive tasks. Its snappy sound profile complements its polished feel, making it an appealing choice for those who enjoy a tactile sensation with each keystroke. On the other hand, the HMX Vintage Citrus is designed with gamers in mind, featuring an exceptionally low actuation force of just 1mm, allowing for rapid-fire inputs that are crucial in fast-paced gaming scenarios. This linear switch stands out with its bright, clacky sound and remarkably smooth push, offering a different tactile experience better suited for high-speed performance. Both switches cater to distinct preferences, with the Polaris Purple appealing to typists and the Vintage Citrus targeting gamers. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
48g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
22mm single-staged spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the HMX Vintage Citrus, we notice a clear distinction between the two switches in terms of their sound profiles and material properties. The Polaris Purple utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, which contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, enhances the clarity and resonance of the typing experience. This characteristic, combined with its translucency, makes polycarbonate particularly favorable for RGB lighting setups, as it allows for vibrant and striking illumination effects. In contrast, the Vintage Citrus utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings, which results in a deeper, fuller sound profile. Nylon’s softer nature allows it to absorb more sound, leading to a rounder and more muted auditory experience.
The divergence in material also means the tactile feedback differs significantly between the two switches. For the Polaris Purple, the harder polycarbonate not only contributes to the sound but also affects how the switch feels during use—each keystroke is more pronounced and defined, making it ideal for users who prefer a crisper response. On the other hand, the Vintage Citrus offers a more cushioned and softer typing feel due to the nylon's ability to dampen sound and vibrations. This inherent quality of nylon makes it more forgiving and may entice users looking for comfort and a less jarring typing experience.
Ultimately, while both the Polaris Purple and HMX Vintage Citrus offer unique auditory and tactile experiences, they unleash their distinctive characteristics through the effects of their respective materials. Polycarbonate in the Polaris Purple ensures a clear and resonant typing sound, juxtaposed with the Nylon in the Vintage Citrus which creates a softer and fuller auditory output. When considering RGB lighting support and aesthetic preferences, users might prefer the Polaris Purple, whereas those seeking a deeper and warmer feel may lean towards the Vintage Citrus. Thus, while they serve similar functions as mechanical switches, the differences in housing materials lead to varying typing experiences that cater to diverse user preferences.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch, notable differences in actuation and bottom out forces emerge. The Polaris Purple switch does not specify an actuation force but has a relatively high bottom out force of 67 grams, indicating a medium-heavy feel when pressing the key all the way down. In contrast, the Vintage Citrus switch boasts an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. This means that the Vintage Citrus is lighter, making it more suitable for those who prefer extended typing sessions or lighter key presses, while the Polaris Purple will feel more substantial under the fingers, appealing to users who enjoy a stronger push feel. Overall, if the actuation force for the Polaris Purple were known, we could potentially identify a specific balance between the two switches, but given the data, it is evident that the Vintage Citrus offers a lighter typing experience compared to the heavier feel of the Polaris Purple.
Travel distance
The SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch features a shorter travel distance of 3 mm. This difference highlights a fundamental contrast in switch design, with the Polaris Purple offering a more traditional depth that many users find satisfying for tactile feel and feedback. In contrast, the Vintage Citrus with its shallower 3 mm travel is likely to appeal to those who prioritize speed and responsiveness, particularly gamers looking for quicker actuation. While both switches cater to different preferences, if you're accustomed to short travel distances, choosing the Vintage Citrus would provide you with a faster response time. Conversely, the Polaris Purple would be preferable for users who enjoy a more pronounced push and release, reflecting the nuances of tactile feedback versus linear smoothness. Overall, for respondents seeking a deeper key press, the Polaris Purple is the longer option, while the Vintage Citrus is the shorter.
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 HMX Vintage Citrus has an MSRP of $3.49 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Vintage Citrus for $2.79.
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 presents a snappy sound profile that is neither too loud nor too muted, striking a balance that makes it versatile for different environments, whether at home or in a professional setting. The neutral sound quality means it won’t be distracting to those around you, which is particularly beneficial in shared spaces or office environments. In contrast, the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch is characterized by a bright, clacky sound profile, likely designed to enhance auditory feedback for gamers who prefer a more pronounced audio response during intense gaming sessions. This can make the Vintage Citrus more appealing for a dynamic and engaging atmosphere, albeit possibly less suitable for quieter settings.
Regarding feel, the Polaris Purple offers a mild, tactile experience that pleases many users, as it provides sufficient feedback without being overwhelming. This gentle approach to typing, combined with a polished finish, allows for a smooth key travel that enhances the overall typing experience while minimizing friction. On the other hand, the feel of the Vintage Citrus switch, designed for rapid inputs, is likely smoother given its low actuation force, but specific details about its tactile response or refinement were not provided. Therefore, while both switches aim for a comfortable typing experience, the Polaris Purple caters to those who prefer tactile feedback, whereas the Vintage Citrus primarily caters to those who prioritize speed.
In summary, while the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch serve different purposes, each has distinct auditory and tactile characteristics that cater to varying preferences and use cases. The Polaris Purple excels in balanced sound and a satisfying tactile experience, making it suitable for a wide audience, whereas the Vintage Citrus targets gamers with its clacky sound and emphasis on rapid actuation. Ultimately, users seeking a versatile typing experience might find satisfaction in the Polaris Purple, while speed-focused individuals may prefer the Vintage Citrus for its design and sound tailored for fast-paced gaming.
Conclusion
To conclude, selecting between the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch and the HMX Vintage Citrus linear switch ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you value a pronounced tactile experience and enjoy a snappy sound profile, the Polaris Purple may be the better choice for you, especially if you appreciate a medium-heavy bottom out force for a more deliberate, satisfying keystroke—perfect for typing and moderate gaming sessions. Conversely, if you’re a gamer looking for rapid response times and prefer lighter key presses, the Vintage Citrus is designed specifically for fast-paced gameplay, with its low actuation force and quick 1mm response, allowing for swift key presses that can enhance your gaming performance. Additionally, the clacky sound and smooth feel of the Vintage Citrus make it a great pick for those who enjoy an energetic typing experience. In essence, your choice should reflect whether you prioritize tactile feedback and overall typing enjoyment or speed and responsiveness in gaming contexts.
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