SP-Star Polaris Purple vs. Wuque Studio WS Jade
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the Wuque Studio WS Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the Wuque Studio WS Jade offer distinct typing experiences. The Polaris Purple is a tactile switch known for its exhilarating tactile bump and snappy sound profile, providing a polished and mild typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Jade is a linear switch featuring a metallic insert in the stem base for a bright and resonant sound, along with a light diffuser for an enchanting RGB display. The typing experience with the WS Jade is creamy and smooth, with a rock-solid bottom-out feel. Each switch has its own unique qualities that may appeal to different preferences, but as with any keyboard switch, it's important to dive deeper beyond generalities to best decide on the right switch for your needs and typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
UPE
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
18mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
While the SP-Star Polaris Purple utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housing, providing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, the Wuque Studio WS Jade opts for POM material for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound profile. The contrasting sound profiles created by these different housing materials give each switch a distinct auditory experience for users.
In terms of aesthetics, the Polaris Purple's polycarbonate housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through due to its translucency, while the WS Jade's POM housing may not offer the same visual effects. Additionally, the stiffer nature of polycarbonate in the Polaris Purple may result in a more clear and resonant sound profile compared to the relatively softer POM material used in the WS Jade. These differences in material properties can impact the overall typing experience and sound feedback for users of both switches.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the Wuque Studio WS Jade, users can expect similar results in terms of quality and performance. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the polycarbonate top and bottom housing of the Polaris Purple providing a sharper sound and the POM top and bottom housing of the WS Jade offering a deeper tone. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to individual preference for sound, feel, and aesthetic preferences.
Weight
The SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it a medium-heavy option, while the actuation force is not specified. In comparison, the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, which is considered medium. The Polaris Purple will provide a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force, whereas the WS Jade offers a lighter touch for longer typing sessions. For those who prefer a heavier push feel, the Polaris Purple would be the better choice, while the WS Jade is suitable for users who like a lighter typing experience. Depending on the user's preference for actuation and bottom out forces, they can choose between the two switches to achieve their desired typing feel.
Travel distance
The SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Polaris Purple has a slightly longer travel distance than the WS Jade, but both are within the range of traditional switch travel distances. Gamers may prefer the WS Jade for its slightly shorter travel distance, which can lead to faster response times. On the other hand, those who prefer a deeper keypress experience may opt for the Polaris Purple with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and desired typing or gaming 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 Wuque Studio WS Jade comes in at $4.30 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 tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for a wide range of users and environments. It provides a snappy and satisfying typing experience with a pronounced tactile bump. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch is known for its clacky and resonant sound profile, thanks to the metallic insert in the stem base. This switch produces a bright and percussive sound that can be appealing to users looking for a unique auditory experience. The choice between these two switches ultimately depends on personal preference, with the Polaris Purple offering a more moderate sound profile and the WS Jade providing a louder and more distinctive typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the SP-Star Polaris Purple switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, with a gentle tactile bump that is approachable to most users. The switch provides a smooth and refined key travel, making each keystroke comfortable and satisfying. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Jade switch is described as silky and creamy, offering an exceptionally smooth typing experience. The uniquely rock-solid bottom-out of the WS Jade switch adds to the overall creamy sensation, allowing users to glide effortlessly across the keys with minimal resistance. While the Polaris Purple provides a more subtle and polished feel, the WS Jade offers a luxurious and buttery typing experience that may appeal to users seeking maximum smoothness.
In conclusion, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch offer distinct sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Polaris Purple excels in providing a neutral and satisfying typing experience with a moderate sound profile, while the WS Jade stands out with its clacky and resonant sound profile paired with a silky and creamy feel. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on the user's preference for tactile feedback, sound profile, and overall typing experience. Regardless of the choice, both switches are sure to provide a high-quality and engaging mechanical keyboard experience for newcomers and enthusiasts alike.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Jade linear switch, consider the differences in bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a tactile typing experience with a snappy sound profile, the Polaris Purple may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a unique metallic sound profile with a creamy and smooth typing experience, the WS Jade could be the better option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound characteristics.
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