SP-Star Polaris Purple vs. Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear. The Polaris Purple is a tactile switch known for its exhilarating tactile typing experience, thanks to its big tactile bump. This switch also offers a snappy sound profile, making it a favorite among users. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear switches by Wuque excel in providing a quiet and precise typing experience in office and work environments. These linear switches feature ingeniously designed stem railings with discreet cutouts, reducing switch noise without the need for silicone dampeners. This unique design ensures a seamless blend of tranquility and precision, making them an excellent choice for those seeking a silent but responsive switch. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities, so you can best decide on the switch that suits your specific preferences.
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
3.50 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
15mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches provide distinct differences in terms of sound profile and aesthetic appeal. The Polaris Purple utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is attributed to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate, which enhances clarity and resonance. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting effects, making it an ideal choice for those seeking visually appealing switches.
In contrast, the WS Silent Linear switches employ nylon for both their top and bottom housings. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. As a result, the WS Silent Linear switches offer a duller and rounder sound when typing. While lacking the translucent properties of polycarbonate, the nylon housing still provides a classic look that appeals to those preferring a more traditional aesthetic.
Although they differ in materials, both switches share a similarity in the impact of their housing materials on key presses. With the top and bottom housings playing distinct roles, pressing down on the switch will primarily showcase the qualities of the bottom housing, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, when releasing a key, the sound profile will be more influenced by the top housing. This similarity ensures that users can expect consistent performance and sound characteristics between the two switches.
Overall, the choice between the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear ultimately boils down to personal preference. If one prefers a sharper and more resonant sound with RGB lighting options, the Polaris Purple's polycarbonate housing is the better option. On the other hand, those seeking a deeper and fuller sound profile and a more traditional aesthetic may find the WS Silent Linear's nylon housing to be more appealing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, we find some similarities and differences. Starting with the actuation force, the values for both switches are unavailable, making it difficult to compare them directly. However, it can be assumed that they would provide similar results in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke.
Moving on to the bottom out force, we find that the Polaris Purple requires a slightly heavier force of 67 grams, which falls into the medium-heavy range. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 63.5 grams, also falling into the medium-heavy range. This means that the Polaris Purple offers a slightly more substantial typing experience, making it suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel.
When it comes to weight considerations, some individuals may opt for a lighter switch like the WS Silent Linear. This lighter option allows for longer periods of typing without experiencing fatigue, which makes it ideal for work environments or extended gaming sessions. Alternatively, those who desire a more substantial typing experience may prefer the slightly heavier Polaris Purple. The extra weight provides a sense of solidity and can enhance the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, while the actuation forces of the SP-Star Polaris Purple and Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches are unknown, their bottom out forces reveal that the Polaris Purple is slightly heavier. The decision between the two ultimately depends on personal preference, with lighter options being better for extended typing sessions and heavier options providing a more substantial typing feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Polaris Purple has a travel distance of 4 mm, which falls into the more traditional range. On the other hand, the WS Silent Linear has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the WS Silent Linear switch more suitable for gamers who value faster response times, as the shorter travel distance allows for quicker keystrokes. However, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance to feel too abrupt, in which case the Polaris Purple switch with its longer travel distance may be a better fit. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for responsiveness and key 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 Silent Linear comes in at $4.20 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
When it comes to sound, the SP-Star Polaris Purple switch is described as having a snappy sound profile. Although the exact sound characteristics are not explicitly mentioned, it can be inferred that these switches provide a moderate and neutral sound experience suitable for both beginners and advanced users. On the other hand, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch offers a more varied range of sound profiles. It is categorized as having a neutral sound, similar to the Polaris Purple, but also incorporates elements of being muted and subdued. This means that the WS Silent Linear switch produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular or clacky switches, aiming to minimize the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. Furthermore, it offers a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. However, it is important to keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the choice of keyboard board and keycaps.
In terms of feel, both the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches provide a mild typing experience. This means that they offer a more gentle and approachable feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The specific feel of the Polaris Purple switch is not provided in the given information, but it can be presumed that its mildness falls within a safe, middle-ground zone. Additionally, the Polaris Purple switch is described as having a polished finish, which results in smooth and refined key travel due to reduced friction. Again, the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switch aligns with the mild typing experience described for the Polaris Purple without any additional details.
Based on the available information, the sound and feel qualities of the SP-Star Polaris Purple and Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear switches seem quite similar. Both switches have a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making them suitable for various scenarios, whether it be in an office or at home. They offer a tactile typing experience, although the exact nature of the tactile feedback for the WS Silent Linear is not specified. Both switches also provide a mild typing experience, with the Polaris Purple having a polished finish for smooth and refined key travel. As such, if you are seeking similar results in terms of sound and feel, either of these switches would be a suitable choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Silent Linear linear switch, there are a few factors to consider. If you're looking for a switch with a big tactile bump and a snappy sound profile, the Polaris Purple would be a great choice. It offers an exhilarating tactile typing experience that can enhance your typing enjoyment. On the other hand, if you prioritize a quiet office or work environment, the WS Silent Linear is the way to go. These switches feature ingeniously designed stem railings with discreet cutouts, effectively reducing switch noise while maintaining responsiveness and a satisfying bottom-out. Additionally, they offer a distinct typing experience without silicone dampeners, providing a seamless blend of tranquility and precision. When it comes to sound, both switches fall under the neutral category, making them suitable for various purposes. In terms of feel, the Polaris Purple offers a mild and polished experience, while the WS Silent Linear provides a gentle typing experience. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you prioritize tactile feedback and snappy sound or a quiet and responsive typing experience.
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