TTC Gold Red Pro vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red Pro and the SP-Star RedBlue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch to the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Gold Red Pro is praised for its versatility, offering a seamless typing experience with its neutral sound signature. Ideal for various settings such as gaming, office work, or casual typing sessions, this switch is known for its adaptability and ease of use. On the other hand, the RedBlue linear switches provide a medium-light typing experience with a relatively low-pitched sound profile, perfect for those who prefer a lighter touch. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for your specific needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
57g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
NPI
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
18.5mm spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gold Red Pro and the SP-Star RedBlue, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This material is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this commonality in their top housing material, they differ in their bottom housing material. The Gold Red Pro features a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate bottom housing of the RedBlue.
Despite the differences in their bottom housing materials, both the Gold Red Pro and the SP-Star RedBlue focus on leveraging the unique qualities of their housing materials to enhance sound profiles. The nylon bottom housing of the Gold Red Pro absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the RedBlue contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, the impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch is contrasted by the influence of the top housing on the sound when releasing a key. This distinction highlights the importance of both housing materials in shaping the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, while the Gold Red Pro and the SP-Star RedBlue share similarities in their top housing material of polycarbonate, their bottom housing materials offer distinctive characteristics that cater to different sound preferences. The nylon bottom housing of the Gold Red Pro provides a deeper sound, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the RedBlue offers a sharper sound. By understanding the role that each housing material plays in creating a unique sound profile, keyboard enthusiasts can select a switch that best aligns with their desired typing experience.
Weight
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 43 grams compared to the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, whose actuation force is unknown. The bottom out force of the Gold Red Pro is also unknown, while the RedBlue switch has a heavier bottom out force of 57 grams, which is considered medium-light. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Gold Red Pro may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may opt for the RedBlue switch. Both switches provide different weight options to cater to individual preferences, with the actuation and bottom out forces playing a key role in determining the typing feel and experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether a lighter or heavier force is preferred for typing or gaming activities.
Travel distance
The TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the RedBlue switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Gold Red Pro switch. While both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, the slight difference of 0.2 mm may be noticeable to some users. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Gold Red Pro switch with the shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial keystroke may lean towards the RedBlue switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red Pro has an MSRP of $6.11 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Red Pro for $2.90.
The SP-Star RedBlue has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the RedBlue for $5.40.
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 TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch offers a neutral and thocky typing experience, producing a deep and satisfying sound that is neither too loud nor too soft. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch provides a low-pitched and thocky sound profile, making it ideal for those who prefer a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Both switches fall under the neutral sound category, making them suitable for various environments and preferences, ensuring a harmonious typing experience.
Regarding feel, the TTC Gold Red Pro switch is described as polished, silky, mild, and subtle, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with a gentle and light resistance. Conversely, the SP-Star RedBlue switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches offer a comfortable and approachable typing feel, suitable for a wide range of users who prefer a more gentle typing experience without sacrificing smoothness and responsiveness.
In conclusion, both the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch offer high-quality typing experiences with their unique sound and feel characteristics. While the Gold Red Pro switch may provide a slightly deeper and more neutral sound profile compared to the RedBlue switch, both switches excel in versatility and adaptability, making them suitable for a variety of typing tasks and environments. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound and feel, but rest assured that you will achieve a satisfying typing experience with either option.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the TTC Gold Red Pro linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, you should consider your preferences and typing needs. If you are looking for a versatile switch with a neutral sound profile and ease of press, the Gold Red Pro may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, the RedBlue switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different user preferences, so choosing between them will depend on what factors are most important to you in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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