SP-Star Polaris Purple vs. Wuque Studio WS Onion
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the Wuque Studio WS Onion switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that stand out are the SP-Star Polaris Purple, a tactile switch, and the Wuque Studio WS Onion, a linear switch. The Polaris Purple is renowned for its exhilarating typing experience, thanks to its big tactile bump, and it offers a snappy sound profile. On the other hand, the WS Onion provides a deeply satisfying keystroke feel with its buttery smoothness achieved through its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing. Additionally, users of the WS Onion praise its crisp, responsive feel and neutral sound profile. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
WS CL635 Gold Plated Stainless Spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the Wuque Studio WS Onion have some similarities and differences. Both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting. Therefore, both the Polaris Purple and the WS Onion will offer similar sound characteristics and visual aesthetics due to their polycarbonate top housing.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, differences arise. The Polaris Purple uses a polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to the overall sound and feel of the switch. On the other hand, the WS Onion features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This means that typing on the WS Onion with its nylon bottom housing will create a duller and rounder sound compared to the Polaris Purple's polycarbonate bottom housing. The impact on the bottom-out sound and feel will differ between the two switches due to their respective bottom housings.
In summary, while both switches utilize polycarbonate top housing, which provides similar sharp and crisp sound characteristics, they differ in terms of their bottom housing materials. The Polaris Purple's polycarbonate bottom housing offers a clear and resonant sound, while the WS Onion's nylon bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound. Understanding these distinctions allows users to choose a switch based on their desired sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch to the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch, it is important to consider their actuation force and bottom out force. Unfortunately, the actuation force for both switches is unavailable, making it difficult to draw a direct comparison in that aspect. However, we can compare their bottom out forces. The Polaris Purple has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which falls into the medium-heavy range. In contrast, the WS Onion has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 63.5 grams, also categorized as medium-heavy.
Weight is a crucial factor to consider when selecting a switch, as it impacts the typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter feeling switch may opt for the WS Onion, as its slightly lighter bottom out force allows for more extended typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the Polaris Purple offers a more substantial typing experience with its slightly heavier bottom out force, appealing to individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel while typing.
Although the actuation force remains unknown for both switches, it is reasonable to assume that they are likely to yield similar results in terms of actuation. With both switches falling into the medium-heavy range for bottom out force, users can expect a comparable level of resistance when triggering keystrokes. Thus, individuals seeking a tactile typing experience can explore either switch option confidently. Ultimately, the choice between the Polaris Purple and the WS Onion will come down to personal preference and the desired typing experience, whether it be a lighter or slightly heavier touch.
Travel distance
The travel distances of the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch are equal, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will feel the same distance from the top to the bottom. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of the travel distance for both switches.
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 Onion has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the WS Onion for $5.53.
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, both the Polaris Purple and WS Onion switches have a neutral sound profile. This means that they have a moderate actuation force requirement and produce a moderate sound when typing. The sound produced by these switches can be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, if you prefer a neutral sound profile, both switches will provide similar results.
When it comes to feel, the Polaris Purple offers a mild typing experience. This means that it provides a gentle and approachable tactile feedback. Additionally, the switch has a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the WS Onion switches offer a buttery smooth keystroke feel. This implies a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Similar to the Polaris Purple, the WS Onion switches also have a polished finish, contributing to reduced friction and smooth key travel. Whether you prefer a mild or buttery feel, both switches provide satisfying experiences.
In conclusion, both the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch have their own unique qualities. The Polaris Purple offers a big tactile bump, exhilarating tactile typing experience, and a snappy sound profile. On the other hand, the WS Onion switches feature a polycarbonate top housing, nylon bottom housing, crisp and responsive feel, and a neutral sound profile. While the Polaris Purple leans towards a milder feel, the WS Onion provides a buttery smooth keystroke experience. Depending on your personal preferences, both switches can deliver enjoyable typing experiences.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a mechanical keyboard switch with a exhilarating tactile typing experience and a snappy sound profile, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch would be a great choice for you. With a bottom out force of 67 grams, it provides a medium-heavy feel that stands out during typing. Additionally, if you prefer a switch with a mild and polished feel, the Polaris Purple delivers a more gentle and refined typing experience.
On the other hand, if you're seeking a buttery smooth keystroke feel that is deeply satisfying, the Wuque Studio WS Onion linear switch would be a fantastic option. With a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, it offers a similar medium-heavy feel to the Polaris Purple. The WS Onion's polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing contribute to its smooth and sleek typing experience, providing a crisp and responsive feel. Furthermore, the sound profile of the WS Onion is described as neutral, making it suitable for various purposes.
Therefore, when considering sound and feel, both the Polaris Purple and WS Onion switches offer a neutral sound profile and a polished typing experience due to their smooth finishes. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will come down to whether you prioritize a tactile typing experience with a snappy sound (Polaris Purple) or a buttery smooth keystroke feel with a crisp and responsive sensation (WS Onion). In the end, either choice will provide you with a satisfying typing experience based on your preferences.
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