SP-Star Polaris Purple vs. Wuque Studio WS Morandi
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, there are a variety of options to choose from, each with its own unique features and characteristics. Two switches that stand out are the SP-Star Polaris Purple, a tactile switch, and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi, a linear switch. The Polaris Purple is renowned for its exhilarating tactile typing experience, thanks to its prominent tactile bump. Additionally, its snappy sound profile adds to the overall satisfaction while typing. On the other hand, the WS Morandi switches offer a blend of innovation and visual aesthetics. These ultra-smooth linear switches not only enhance RGB visuals with a mesmerizing light diffusion effect but also provide a distinct dry and airy smoothness due to the UPE stem. With a medium weight and slightly shortened total travel, the WS Morandi strikes the perfect balance between form and function. While typing, they offer a slightly more muted sound profile. 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
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
3.50 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
One key difference between the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi is the material used for their top housings. The Polaris Purple features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. In contrast, the WS Morandi uses a POM top housing, which produces an incredibly pleasing and unique sound profile. The sound is deeper and relatively more muted, offering a different auditory experience compared to the Polaris Purple.
Another point of distinction lies in the bottom housing material of these two switches. The Polaris Purple utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to the sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile it provides. Similar to the top housing, the stiffness of polycarbonate enhances clarity and resonance. On the other hand, the WS Morandi features a POM bottom housing. This material imparts a deeper and more muted sound profile when bottoming-out a key. The POM bottom housing offers a unique auditory experience that differs from the Polaris Purple's polycarbonate counterpart.
It is worth noting that when a switch has different materials for its top and bottom housings, the qualities of each material are divided between them. As a result, the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. Conversely, the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, while the Polaris Purple and WS Morandi may share similar properties in terms of their top and bottom housings, the specific material choices result in distinctive sound profiles and tactile experiences for each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch, it is worth considering the weight and force exerted. Unfortunately, the actuation force for both switches is unavailable, making it difficult to compare them directly in this aspect. However, we can still analyze their bottom out forces. The Polaris Purple has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which can be considered medium-heavy, while the WS Morandi has a bottom out force of 60 grams, which is medium.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the WS Morandi would be a suitable choice as it has a slightly lower bottom out force. This allows for longer periods of comfortable typing, making it ideal for extended work sessions or marathon gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may opt for the Polaris Purple, as its slightly heavier bottom out force provides a stronger push feel. This can enhance the tactile feedback and overall satisfaction during typing sessions.
Although we are unable to compare the actuation forces directly, it is likely that both switches offer similar actuation forces, especially considering their similar bottom out forces. Therefore, individuals seeking similar actuation forces can expect comparable results when using either the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch or the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch, allowing for a consistent typing experience regardless of their choice.
Ultimately, the decision between these switches comes down to personal preference. Those who prioritize a lighter typing experience may lean towards the WS Morandi, while individuals seeking a more substantial feel may gravitate towards the Polaris Purple.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch, it is apparent that the Polaris Purple has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the WS Morandi has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Polaris Purple's 4 mm travel distance falls within the more traditional range, providing a sense of familiarity to users. On the other hand, the WS Morandi's 3.5 mm travel distance is slightly shallower, which can appeal to gamers seeking faster response times. The shorter travel distance allows for quicker key presses, catering to the needs of those who prioritize responsiveness. However, for individuals who desire a more substantial feel, the Polaris Purple's longer travel distance may be preferred, as the added depth can provide a more satisfying typing experience. In conclusion, while the SP-Star Polaris Purple offers a longer travel distance compared to the WS Morandi, the preference between the two ultimately depends on the user's desired level of responsiveness and key press depth.
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 Morandi has an MSRP of $4.30 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Morandi for $3.90.
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
The SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch is best known for its exhilarating tactile typing experience, featuring a big tactile bump. When it comes to sound, the Polaris Purple is described as having a snappy sound profile. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Morandi linear switch is known for its innovation and visual aesthetics. These ultra-smooth linear switches have a light column that diffuses light, enhancing RGB visuals with a mesmerizing effect. The WS Morandi switches provide a unique dry, airy, and wispy smoothness, different from the creamy feel of factory-lubed switches. They have a slightly more muted sound profile.
Comparing the sound qualities, the Polaris Purple is considered neutral, making it suitable for most intents and purposes. It has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile. The WS Morandi, on the other hand, has a low-pitched, subdued sound with a thocky quality. This means it has a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, offering a dampened and subtle sound signature.
Moving on to feel, the Polaris Purple switch is described as having a mild and polished feel. It offers a gentle typing experience with a safe middle-ground zone and a smooth and refined finish. This results in reduced friction, smooth key travel, and approachable qualities. On the other hand, the WS Morandi switch has a buttery, creamy, and silky feel. It provides a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation, gliding your fingers across the keys with ease and melting into each keystroke.
In conclusion, the Polaris Purple tactile switch provides an exhilarating tactile typing experience with a snappy sound profile. It offers a mild and polished feel, making it approachable and smooth. On the other hand, the WS Morandi linear switch combines innovation and visual aesthetics with its ultra-smooth features and mesmerizing light diffusion. It has a slightly more muted sound profile with a low-pitched, subdued, and thocky quality. The WS Morandi switch provides a buttery, creamy, and silky feel for a seamless and effortless typing experience. While both switches have their own unique qualities, the Polaris Purple and WS Morandi can offer similar results in terms of sound and feel, depending on individual preferences and other factors such as the choice of board and keycaps.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the SP-Star Polaris Purple is a great choice. The big tactile bump of these switches provides an exhilarating typing experience, and the sound profile is described as snappy. On the other hand, if you prioritize visual aesthetics and want a smooth linear switch with a medium bottom out force, the Wuque Studio WS Morandi is the way to go. These switches feature a unique dry and airy smoothness with a slightly muted sound profile. With the WS Morandi switches, innovation meets visual aesthetics, as they have a mesmerizing light diffusing effect. Ultimately, your decision between the two switches will depend on whether you prefer a tactile typing experience with a snappier sound or a smooth linear switch with a slightly muted sound and enhanced RGB visuals.
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