SP-Star Polaris Purple vs. Wuque Studio WS Yellow

Overview

The SP-Star Polaris Purple and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow are two mechanical keyboard switches that offer distinct typing experiences. The Polaris Purple is a tactile switch, renowned for its exhilarating tactile bump that provides an incredible typing sensation. Additionally, its snappy sound profile adds to the overall satisfaction of using this switch. On the other hand, the WS Yellow is a linear switch that combines classic materials with cutting-edge engineering. With a 22mm double-stage spring at its core, it offers a delightful typing experience with a satisfying bounce. Enthusiasts also appreciate its familiar sound signature. While both switches possess a mild and polished feel, the Polaris Purple is categorized as neutral, whereas the WS Yellow is described as creamy. These distinctions make them appealing to different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits you.

By the numbers

SP-Star Polaris Purple Tactile

Wuque Studio WS Yellow Linear

$5.60

$5.00 per 10

$3.50 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow have distinct characteristics that result in different sound profiles. The Polaris Purple's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, which enhances clarity and resonance. Additionally, its translucency makes it perfect for use with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the WS Yellow's nylon top housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile.

Similarly, the bottom housings of these switches also contribute to their respective sound profiles. The Polaris Purple's polycarbonate bottom housing, like its top housing, produces a sharper and crisper sound. Its stiffness allows for a clearer and more resonant bottom-out sound and feel. In contrast, the WS Yellow's nylon bottom housing has a softer nature, absorbing more sound and creating a deeper and fuller bottom-out sound.

Despite their differences, both switches share the similarity of having distinct top and bottom housings. These housings split the qualities each material brings to the switch. When typing, you will feel the impact of the bottom housing, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the sound when releasing a key will be more influenced by the top housing. While the Polaris Purple and the WS Yellow may differ in material, they both offer unique characteristics that can enhance the typing experience in their own ways.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, there are notable differences. The Polaris Purple has an unavailable gram actuation force, while the WS Yellow also has an unavailable gram actuation force. Since the specific actuation forces are unknown for both switches, it can be assumed that they may yield similar results in terms of force required to trigger a keystroke.

However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Polaris Purple requires a heavier force of 67 grams, which can provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the WS Yellow has a lighter bottom out force of 53 grams, making it suitable for individuals who prefer a lighter switch for prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming sessions.

Considering the weight of the switches, it becomes evident that weight plays a crucial role in the decision-making process. Some users may favor a lighter switch to facilitate longer periods of typing, especially if they need to use the keyboard for work or engage in extended gaming sessions. Conversely, those seeking a more substantial typing experience may opt for switches with heavier forces.

In conclusion, while the actuation forces remain unknown for both the Polaris Purple and the WS Yellow switches, the Polaris Purple requires a heavier bottom out force, offering a more substantial typing experience. The WS Yellow, on the other hand, has a lighter bottom out force, making it ideal for individuals who prefer a lighter switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preferences and the desired typing or gaming experience.

Travel distance

In comparing the travel distance of the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch, we can see that the Polaris Purple has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the WS Yellow has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Polaris Purple being on the longer side and the WS Yellow on the slightly shorter side. It is worth noting that shorter travel distances have gained popularity, particularly among gamers who seek faster response times. Therefore, if you value a more responsive typing experience, you may prefer the WS Yellow with its shorter travel distance. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper and more substantial tactile feedback, the Polaris Purple with its longer travel distance may be more suited to your preference. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual typing style and personal preference.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the Polaris Purple switch offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for most users and purposes. It has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making it versatile whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use them at home or work. On the other hand, the sound profile of the WS Yellow switch is not specifically mentioned in the provided information. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Therefore, without further information, we cannot provide a definitive comparison of the sound qualities between these two switches.

In terms of feel, the Polaris Purple switch offers a mild and polished typing experience. It falls within a safe, middle-ground zone in terms of its tactile characteristics, providing a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The switch's smooth and refined finish, either due to the materials used or factory lubing, results in reduced friction and smooth key travel, further enhancing the typing experience. Similarly, the WS Yellow switch is described as creamy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience. It is likely that this creaminess is achieved through factory lubrication or specific materials. Typing on the WS Yellow switch feels like gliding fingers effortlessly across the keys, with each keystroke melting into a silky sensation. Additionally, like the Polaris Purple, the WS Yellow switch falls within the mild category, providing a comfortable typing experience for most users.

Considering the available information, the Polaris Purple switch stands out for its exhilarating tactile typing experience and snappy sound profile. It offers a mild feel with a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. The WS Yellow switch, on the other hand, offers a delightful typing experience with a satisfying bounce and a familiar sound signature adored by enthusiasts. Although the specific sound profile of the WS Yellow switch is not mentioned, its creamy feel suggests a smooth and enjoyable typing experience. While each switch has its unique qualities, both switches fall within the mild category, ensuring a comfortable typing experience for most. Furthermore, it is important to note that both sound and feel can be influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard board and keycaps. Therefore, by selecting suitable ancillary components, you can achieve similar results in terms of sound and feel with either switch.

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 tactile switch is the way to go. These switches provide a satisfying tactile bump and a snappy sound profile, making them perfect for those who enjoy a more pronounced typing feedback. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a smooth and fluid typing experience, the Wuque Studio WS Yellow linear switch is the better choice. With a medium-light bottom out force, these switches offer effortless keystrokes and a delightful typing experience. Additionally, their material blend provides a familiar sound signature that enthusiasts adore. Moreover, both switches offer a polished finish, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel. Ultimately, the decision between the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the Wuque Studio WS Yellow will depend on your personal preference for tactile feedback and typing experience.

Mentioned in this article

SP-Star Polaris Purple Tactile

$5.60

$5.00 per 10

Learn more

Wuque Studio WS Yellow Linear

$3.50 per 10

Learn more