SP-Star Polaris Purple vs. HMX Xinhai (Heavy)
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering the realm of mechanical keyboard switches, the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) stand out as two distinct options catering to different typing preferences. The Polaris Purple, celebrated for its pronounced tactile bump, delivers an exhilarating typing experience that engages typists with a satisfying feedback on each keystroke. Its snappy sound profile adds to the overall enjoyment, making it an appealing choice for users who appreciate a tactile sensation while typing. On the other hand, the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) offers a completely different approach with its linear switch design. Crafted from a unique PA12 top housing, it provides a softer acoustics profile, complemented by a POM stem that delivers a crisp, high-pitched resonance. This switch is ideal for those seeking a smooth, uninterrupted keystroke experience without the tactile feedback that characterizes other switches. Each of these switches brings its own strengths to the table, whether you desire the satisfying bump of the Polaris Purple or the smooth fluidity of the Xinhai (Heavy). However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your typing style.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
62.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
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 single-stage spring
Housing materials
When examining the housing materials of the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy), it becomes evident that their differing compositions play a significant role in the sound profiles these switches produce. The Polaris Purple features a polycarbonate top housing, known for its stiffer characteristics, which effectively yields a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This is particularly beneficial for RGB lighting applications, as polycarbonate's translucency enhances visual effects. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) employs a nylon top housing, which is softer and consequently generates a deeper, fuller sound profile that is less resonant than that of polycarbonate. This fundamental difference in materials leads to distinct auditory experiences, underscoring how the choice of housing influences the overall sound quality of the switches.
Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their bottom housings in the case of the Polaris Purple, amplifying the crispness of sound, while the Xinhai (Heavy) substitutes with nylon, resulting in a rounder, more muted acoustic output. The impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed becomes particularly relevant here. While the Polaris Purple’s sharper sound can be attributed to the stiffer polycarbonate, the Xinhai’s deeper tone stems from the sound-absorbing qualities of nylon. It suggests that the combined effect of the housing materials will determine the switch's performance, as each material brings its unique attributes into play. Consequently, the choice of housing at both the top and bottom defines the character of each switch's auditory output.
In conclusion, while the SP-Star Polaris Purple and HMX Xinhai (Heavy) feature different materials for their top and bottom housings, they showcase how variations in plastic composition can lead to distinct sound profiles. The interplay of polycarbonate's rigidity against nylon's softness reveals a nuanced balance between clarity and warmth in keystrokes. When using a switch, it becomes clear that the resultant sound profile and tactile feel are shaped by the qualities native to both materials. If one seeks a sharper auditory feedback and enhanced RGB effects, the Polaris Purple serves that need, whereas the Xinhai provides a different, fuller experience. Ultimately, both switches can achieve desirable results, but the approach and character of those results vary greatly due to the materials used.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Polaris Purple has an unspecified actuation force, indicating it may have a very light or undetermined initial push, but it does feature a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is classified as medium-heavy. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy) switch has a defined actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 62.5 grams, positioning it within the medium range. This means that the Polaris Purple ultimately allows for a heavier bottoming out experience compared to the Xinhai, which might appeal to users seeking a more substantial typing feel. However, since the actuation force of the Polaris Purple is unknown, users may experience a different tactile response when they begin pressing the key. Overall, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may gravitate towards the Xinhai (Heavy) switch given its defined and manageable actuation force, while those seeking a firmer bottom out without specified actuation force might find the Polaris Purple more appealing.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, it is clear that the Polaris Purple offers a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Xinhai (Heavy) boasts a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This distinction means that users who prefer a more pronounced tactile feedback and a deeper key press may find the Polaris Purple more satisfying. In contrast, gamers or individuals who favor quicker response times might lean towards the Xinhai (Heavy) due to its shorter travel distance, which is becoming increasingly popular in modern switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preferences regarding the balance between travel distance, response time, and tactile feel.
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 HMX Xinhai (Heavy) has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Xinhai (Heavy) for $3.19.
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 comparing the sound profiles of the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch, the Polaris Purple produces a snappy sound that is generally described as neutral. This means its audio characteristics maintain a moderate volume, making it suitable for both home and work environments, regardless of whether the user is a beginner or advanced. In contrast, while the specific sound qualities of the Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch aren't detailed, it’s crafted with a PA12 top housing which suggests it could have a softer acoustics profile. However, the higher-pitched resonance from its POM stem may imply that it could produce a distinct sound that is more refined and crisp. Ultimately, while the Xinhai (Heavy) may deliver a different tone, the neutral sound of the Polaris Purple allows for versatility in different settings.
Regarding feel, the Polaris Purple is characterized by a mild tactile experience, which pairs a noticeable tactile bump with a polished finish. This combination results in a smooth and refined typing experience, where the switch remains approachable and easy to use for most typists. The careful balance strikes a chord with users who prefer a gentle yet satisfying feedback. On the other hand, the feel of the Xinhai (Heavy) switch is not explicitly detailed, leaving an unknown quality in comparison. However, the craftsmanship that goes into making the Xinhai switch often leads to a distinctive linear feel known for its smoothness, so it may attract users who favor fluidity without the tactile feedback present in the Polaris Purple.
In conclusion, while both the Polaris Purple and the Xinhai (Heavy) switches cater to different preferences—one leaning towards a tactile experience and the other towards a linear feel—they each offer distinct sound profiles and tactile characteristics. The Polaris Purple excels with its snappy and neutral sound and mild, polished feel, which is appreciated in various contexts. In contrast, the Xinhai (Heavy), while its specifics remain a mystery, likely brings its own advantages particularly in terms of smoothness and potential crisp sound. Both switches ultimately aim to satisfy diverse typing needs, making them worthy contenders in the mechanical keyboard switch market.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing between the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch and the HMX Xinhai (Heavy) linear switch ultimately depends on your typing preferences and intended use. If you're drawn to a more tactile typing experience with a pronounced bump and snappy sound profile, then the Polaris Purple switch is an excellent fit for you. Its medium-heavy actuation force provides a satisfying feedback that can enhance your typing speed and accuracy, making it a delightful choice for both work and casual use. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, linear feel that balances subtle performance with a refined acoustic profile, the Xinhai (Heavy) might be your go-to switch. With a slightly lighter bottom-out force and a unique design that delivers crisp sounds without being overwhelming, it’s perfect for those who appreciate a sophisticated yet enjoyable typing experience. Ultimately, consider the type of feedback, sound, and feel that resonates most with you, and choose accordingly to enhance your mechanical keyboard experience.
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