HMX Deep Navy vs. SP-Star RedBlue

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switches can significantly affect your typing experience, and two noteworthy options to consider are the HMX Deep Navy and the SP-Star RedBlue, both of which are linear switches. The HMX Deep Navy switches are celebrated for their rich, sharp sound profile and silky smooth keystrokes, thanks to their full nylon construction and the advanced Ly stem design. This switch is ideal for users who appreciate a premium tactile experience with an emphasis on acoustic feedback. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue switches offer a medium-light typing experience, characterized by their relatively low-pitched, neutral sound profile that strikes a balance between understated audio feedback and a polished feel. This makes the RedBlue a great choice for typists who prefer a quieter environment without sacrificing responsiveness. Both switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel, paving the way for personalized keyboard setups. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

HMX Deep Navy Linear

SP-Star RedBlue Linear

$3.50

$2.79 per 10

$5.80

$5.40 per 10

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Housing materials

When comparing the HMX Deep Navy and the SP-Star RedBlue, the choice of housing materials reveals notable differences that influence not only the acoustic profile but also the tactile experience of each switch. The Deep Navy utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings, which contributes to its deeper, fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs sound more effectively than harder materials, leading to a duller and rounder auditory experience. On the other hand, the RedBlue features polycarbonate in both the top and bottom housings, producing a sharper and higher-pitched sound. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate allows sound waves to resonate more clearly, resulting in a crisper auditory profile that encourages a distinct key release sound.

Aesthetically, the choice of materials further distinguishes these two switches. The translucent nature of the polycarbonate in the SP-Star RedBlue makes it particularly suitable for RGB lighting applications, enhancing the visual effects of a keyboard setup. In contrast, the opaque nylon housing of the Deep Navy may not offer the same visual flair but serves to create a more muted sound experience. The tactile feedback from the Deep Navy’s nylon housings is characterized by a softer touch, which might appeal to users seeking a more subtle engagement with their keyboard. Conversely, the RedBlue’s polycarbonate construction promotes a firmer response, ensuring that users can feel the actuation distinctly and allowing for a more pronounced bottom-out effect.

Ultimately, despite these differences in material compositions, both the Deep Navy and RedBlue can achieve an enjoyable typing experience, albeit through contrasting sensory pathways. Users investing in the Deep Navy can anticipate a rounded and soothing sound profile that masks the auditory sharpness typically found in keyboards with polycarbonate, while those selecting the RedBlue may revel in its bright and articulate feedback that makes every keystroke feel precise and lively. While the housing materials significantly shape the acoustics and feel of each switch, an understanding of these distinctions is crucial for consumers looking to choose a keyboard that aligns with their personal typing preferences.

Weight

When comparing the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, we find notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Deep Navy features a light actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, allowing for a comfortable typing experience, particularly suited for prolonged use. In contrast, the RedBlue lacks specified actuation force data but has a medium-light bottom out force of 57 grams. This suggests that while it may require less force to trigger a keystroke compared to the Deep Navy, the overall press will feel heavier upon bottoming out, making the RedBlue a better choice for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel. Consequently, the Deep Navy is the lighter option, while the RedBlue could be considered the heavier choice. Overall, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference for weight and force during use.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, there is a notable difference: the Deep Navy has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the RedBlue's travel distance is slightly longer at 4 mm. This makes the Deep Navy a more suitable choice for those who prioritize quicker response times, as shorter travel distances are often favored by gamers for their responsiveness. On the other hand, the RedBlue, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to users who enjoy a more pronounced depth in their keystrokes, as it provides a more traditional feel. Therefore, if you prefer a quicker, more abrupt feedback from your switches, the HMX Deep Navy would be the better option, whereas the SP-Star RedBlue may be preferable for those who appreciate a more tactile experience with a fuller press.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profile of the HMX Deep Navy linear switch is characterized by its rich and sharp acoustics, creating a distinctly engaging auditory experience. This is enhanced by its full nylon construction, which contributes to a satisfying keystroke sound. In contrast, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch features a low-pitched and thocky sound, offering a deeper and more mellow tone. The thocky nature of these switches is ideal for those who appreciate a pronounced auditory feedback when typing. While both switches have unique sound qualities, their performances will also depend on other factors such as the keyboard's materials and design.

When it comes to feel, the Deep Navy switch excels with its silkiness attributed to the Ly stem, promising a smooth and uninterrupted keypress. This gives it an edge for users seeking a premium typing experience. On the other hand, the RedBlue switch presents a mild typing sensation, providing a gentle touch that avoids any overly aggressive feedback. The polished finish of the RedBlue further enhances its smoothness, offering reduced friction and seamless key travel. Despite their different tactile sensations, both switches are designed for comfort, making them suitable options for a wider range of users.

In conclusion, while the HMX Deep Navy and SP-Star RedBlue switches differ in both sound and feel, they each present unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Deep Navy stands out for those who desire a sharp and engaging sound combined with a silky smooth feel, while the RedBlue appeals to users who prefer a more subdued auditory experience with gentle and polished keystrokes. Ultimately, whether you choose the Deep Navy or the RedBlue, both switches provide an enjoyable typing experience, although the individual characteristics will cater to specific preferences and usage styles.

Conclusion

To conclude, when deciding between the HMX Deep Navy linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, your choice will largely depend on your preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. If you seek a lighter actuation force and a rich, thocky auditory experience, the Deep Navy is an excellent option. It offers a smoother keystroke that can enhance gaming or fast-paced typing, making it particularly appealing if you enjoy a more dynamic feel in your hands. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light typing experience with a more subdued yet polished sound profile, the RedBlue switch may be your best bet. Its low-pitched and mild characteristics cater well to a balanced typing experience, making it suitable for both casual and professional settings. Ultimately, your choice should reflect how you want your keyboard to sound and feel while accommodating your typing style, whether you lean toward a softer touch or a more pronounced tactile feedback.

Mentioned in this article

HMX Deep Navy Linear

$3.50

$2.79 per 10

Learn more

SP-Star RedBlue Linear

$5.80

$5.40 per 10

Learn more