SP-Star Polaris Purple vs. Wuque Studio WS Red
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the Wuque Studio WS Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the Wuque Studio WS Red are two fantastic options with distinct characteristics. The Polaris Purple is a tactile switch that is best known for its exhilarating tactile typing experience. It features a big tactile bump that provides a satisfying feedback while typing, creating a snappy sound profile. On the other hand, the WS Red is a linear switch that offers a bouncy and responsive typing experience. It features a 22mm double-stage spring and a classic material blend, resulting in a familiar sound signature. Additionally, the WS Red has a heavier actuation force, adding a touch of weight to each keystroke and delivering a satisfying and substantial typing feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your typing preferences the most.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The SP-Star Polaris Purple and the Wuque Studio WS Red differ in their housing materials, with the Polaris Purple featuring a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, while the WS Red utilizes a nylon top and bottom housing. The polycarbonate housing in the Polaris Purple creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, which is ideal for users who prefer a clear and resonant sound. It is also translucent, making it suitable for those who are interested in incorporating RGB lighting in their keyboard setup. On the other hand, the nylon housing in the WS Red elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively softer nature, absorbing more sound than harder plastics. This creates a duller and rounder sound overall.
Although both the Polaris Purple and the WS Red possess unique housing materials, there are some similarities in terms of their impacts on the sound profile. Both polycarbonate and nylon are known for their ability to influence the sound when keys are released. Therefore, when using either of these switches, the sound produced when letting go of a key will be affected by the material of the top housing. However, the impact of the bottom housing material will be more pronounced when keys are pressed down, as it influences the bottom-out sound and feel. This means that the Polaris Purple's sharper and crisper sound will be more prominent during typing, while the WS Red's deeper and fuller sound will be felt and heard when bottoming out the keys.
In summary, the housing materials of the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the Wuque Studio WS Red play a significant role in defining their sound profiles. The polycarbonate top and bottom housing of the Polaris Purple offer a sharper and more resonant sound, suitable for those who prefer a clear and distinct typing experience. On the other hand, the nylon top and bottom housing of the WS Red generate a deeper and fuller sound, appealing to users who enjoy a more mellow and round sound profile. Regardless of these differences, both switches showcase the influence of the top and bottom housing materials on the sound produced when keys are released, with the top housing having a greater impact.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, it is worth noting that both switches have an actuation force that is unavailable, making it difficult to directly compare them. However, it can be mentioned that they will likely produce similar results in terms of actuation force. Where they differ is in the bottom out force: the Polaris Purple has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which can be considered medium-heavy, while the WS Red also has a bottom out force of 67 grams, suggesting a similar level of resistance when fully pressed.
Considering the weight aspect, some individuals may prefer a lighter switch, as it allows for extended typing sessions or long gaming sessions without causing excessive strain. This can be suitable for keyboards intended for work or extended use. Conversely, others may desire a heavier actuation force for a more substantial typing experience, providing a satisfying push feel. In such cases, options with heavier forces are more suitable.
Ultimately, despite the unavailable actuation force, both the Polaris Purple and WS Red switches seem to offer a similar actuation experience. The decision between the two would likely come down to personal preference regarding the desired level of resistance during the bottom out phase.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch, it is evident that they have different distances. The Polaris Purple has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the WS Red has a slightly shorter distance of 3.8 mm. The Polaris Purple falls into the category of a more traditional travel distance, providing a depth of 4 mm that many are accustomed to. On the other hand, the WS Red offers a slightly shallower travel distance of 3.8 mm. This shorter travel distance is often favored by gamers who desire faster response times. If responsiveness is a priority for you, opting for the WS Red with its shorter travel distance would be beneficial. However, for those who prefer a deeper key press, the Polaris Purple with its 4 mm travel distance would be the better choice. It is important to note that both options provide a comfortable and distinct feel, but the slight variation in travel distance can greatly impact the overall typing experience based on personal preference.
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 Red comes in at $3.50 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
The SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch is best known for its exhilarating tactile typing experience, thanks to the big tactile bump it provides. The sound profile of this switch is described as snappy, offering a satisfying auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch stands out with its bouncy and responsive typing experience. With a 22mm double-stage spring, it offers a familiar sound signature due to its classic material blend. The actuation force of the WS Red is heavier, adding weight to each keystroke and delivering a substantial typing feel.
When it comes to sound, the Polaris Purple is described as having a neutral sound profile, which is suitable for most intents and purposes. This makes it a good choice for both beginners and advanced users, whether for home or work. On the other hand, the sound characteristics of the WS Red are not specified, so it is unknown how it compares in terms of sound. It is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Polaris Purple is described as offering a mild typing experience with a safe, middle-ground zone. The tactile feedback and sound of these switches are approachable to most users. Additionally, the Polaris Purple is noted to have a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. This can be attributed to the materials used or factory lubing, which reduces friction and ensures smooth key travel. Unfortunately, information about the feel of the WS Red is not provided.
In conclusion, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch offer different qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Polaris Purple provides an exhilarating tactile typing experience with a snappy sound profile and a polished feel, the WS Red offers a bouncy and responsive typing experience with a heavier actuation force and a familiar sound signature. If a certain quality is not mentioned for either switch, it means that the information is unknown.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a mechanical keyboard switch with a big tactile bump and a snappy sound profile, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch is the way to go. It offers a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, providing a satisfying typing experience. Additionally, the Polaris Purple has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes and environments.
On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy and responsive typing experience with a familiar sound signature, the Wuque Studio WS Red linear switch is the better choice. It also has a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, but it incorporates a 22mm double-stage spring for added weight and satisfaction with each keystroke.
In terms of sound and feel, the Polaris Purple is described as having a neutral sound profile and a mild, polished feel. This means it offers a moderate actuation force requirement and a smooth key travel experience, making it approachable to most users. However, specific information about the WS Red's sound and feel is not provided.
Ultimately, the decision between the Polaris Purple and the WS Red relies on your personal preferences. If you prioritize a tactile typing experience with a snappy sound profile, go for the Polaris Purple. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a bouncier and more substantial typing feel, the WS Red is the way to go. Consider your typing preferences and choose the switch that best suits your needs. In the end, both switches offer their own unique advantages and can enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.
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