SP-Star Polaris Purple vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° offer unique characteristics to consider. The Polaris Purple is a tactile switch that boasts a big tactile bump, providing an exhilarating typing experience with a snappy sound profile. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° is a linear switch from Gateron known for its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure, delivering unparalleled smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel that reduces noise during typing. Each switch has its own merits and reasons why one might prefer it over the other; however, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the SP-Star Polaris Purple and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, it is clear that both keyboards utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both keyboards. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the keyboards. Despite these similarities, the Polaris Purple and Zero Degree 0° differ in their choice of bottom housing material. The Polaris Purple features a polycarbonate bottom housing, contributing to a clear and resonant sound profile, while the Zero Degree 0° opts for a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound.
In terms of sound profile, the SP-Star Polaris Purple and Gateron Zero Degree 0° differ in the qualities each housing material brings to the keyboard. The stiffer polycarbonate used in the top housing of both keyboards results in a sharper sound when pressing down on the keys, while the softer nylon material used in the Zero Degree 0°'s bottom housing creates a duller and rounder sound. This contrast in sound profiles highlights how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience. Additionally, the split between the top and bottom housing materials shows how the different components of a keyboard can work together to create a balanced sound and feel.
Ultimately, while the SP-Star Polaris Purple and Gateron Zero Degree 0° share similarities in their use of polycarbonate for the top housing, they diverge in their choice of bottom housing material. This distinction results in a difference in sound profiles, with the Polaris Purple offering a clearer and sharper sound, and the Zero Degree 0° providing a deeper and fuller sound. Understanding the impact of housing materials on the overall typing experience underscores the importance of material selection in keyboard design and customization. Whether opting for a crisper or a fuller sound, both keyboards offer unique qualities that cater to the preferences of different users.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it is evident that the Polaris Purple has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° has an actuation force of 45 grams, with the bottom out force being unavailable. This highlights a significant difference between the two switches, with the Polaris Purple being heavier in terms of bottom out force. The actuation force of the Polaris Purple is not specified, while the Zero Degree 0° has a relatively lighter actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference regarding typing experience. Some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Zero Degree 0° for longer typing sessions, while others may opt for the heavier bottom out force of the Polaris Purple for a more substantial typing feel.
Travel distance
The SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option when compared to the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch with a travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Polaris Purple offers a slightly deeper press, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial key feel. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° provides a slightly shallower press, which could appeal to gamers seeking faster response times. Both switches offer their own unique feel, catering to different preferences when it comes to travel distance. Ultimately, whether you choose the shorter or longer travel distance will depend on your personal typing or gaming style.
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 Gateron Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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 tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile, which means it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound level suitable for various settings. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is known for its innovative design that absorbs sound and reduces noise, providing a quieter typing experience overall. Both switches can be influenced by other factors such as keyboard build and keycap choice, so results may vary based on the overall setup.
In terms of feel, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch is described as mild and polished, offering a gentle typing experience with a smooth and refined finish for reduced friction and sleek key travel. On the contrary, information about the feel of the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is not provided in the given details. Nevertheless, from what is known, the Polaris Purple provides a comfortable and accessible typing experience that falls in the middle ground of switch characteristics.
In conclusion, the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch stands out for its big tactile bump and exhilarating typing experience with a snappy sound profile. It offers a mild and polished feel for a gentle but refined typing sensation. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch introduces innovations for silent typing, with a focus on smoothness, stability, and noise reduction. While there may be differences in sound and feel between the two switches, both are designed to provide an enjoyable typing experience tailored to individual preferences. Whether you choose the Polaris Purple or the Zero Degree 0°, you can expect satisfying results that cater to different typing needs.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the SP-Star Polaris Purple tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a tactile typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force and snappy sound profile, the Polaris Purple may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer silent typing with unparalleled smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel that absorbs sound, the Zero Degree 0° switch might be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound profile.
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