Huano Grape Orange vs. SP-Star RedBlue

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Huano Grape Orange and the SP-Star RedBlue present two distinct options for users looking for linear switches. The Grape Orange is famed for its ultra-light 40g actuation force, delivering an exceptionally effortless typing experience that makes it an ideal choice for those who engage in prolonged typing sessions. Its lightweight design allows for swift keystrokes and reduces finger fatigue, catering to users who prioritize speed and comfort. In contrast, the SP-Star RedBlue switches offer a medium-light typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, characterized as neutral and mildly thocky. This particular switch appeals to individuals who seek a balance between responsiveness and a more substantial tactile feedback, providing a polished feel that enhances overall typing satisfaction. Both switches have their unique advantages: the Grape Orange for its feather-light touch and the RedBlue for its refined auditory experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.

By the numbers

Huano Grape Orange Linear

SP-Star RedBlue Linear

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

$5.80

$5.40 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Huano Grape Orange and the SP-Star RedBlue switches share a commonality in their top housing being made of polycarbonate. This contributes to both switch types exhibiting a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that is also crisp and resonant. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate enhances the acoustic properties, enabling users to enjoy a more dynamic typing experience. Additionally, both switches benefit aesthetically from the clear nature of polycarbonate, allowing for vibrant RGB lighting to shine through effectively. Since both utilize the same material for the top housing, users can expect similar auditory experiences in the sound generated while typing, as the characteristics inherent in polycarbonate ensure consistency in sound clarity.

In contrast, the bottom housing of the Huano Grape Orange uses nylon, a traditional switch material known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is primarily due to nylon's softer characteristics, which absorb sound waves more effectively, resulting in a more muted auditory output. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue features a polycarbonate bottom housing, aligning its sound profile with that of the top housing. As a result, the RedBlue switch does not achieve the same depth and warmth in sound as the Grape Orange, instead reinforcing the sharper and crisper qualities brought forth by polycarbonate throughout its entire structure.

The differing materials in the bottom housing of these switches lead to unique tactile experiences. While the Grape Orange will provide a fuller sound due to the nylon, users may find that the bottom-out sound and feel are notably richer because of this material’s ability to absorb impact. In contrast, the RedBlue, with its entirely polycarbonate construction, will maintain a consistent, high-pitched sound from top to bottom. This means that users may prefer the Grape Orange for a more nuanced sound experience, while the RedBlue might be favored by those who appreciate a sharper and more consistent tone throughout their typing experience. Ultimately, the combination of nylon in the Grape Orange's bottom and polycarbonate in the RedBlue's construction dictates their respective sound profiles while limiting their tonal variance.

Weight

When comparing the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, there are distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces that cater to various preferences in typing feel. The Grape Orange features a light actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it an ideal choice for users who favor a more effortless typing experience, perfect for long work sessions or extended gaming marathons. In contrast, the actuation force of the RedBlue switch is unknown, but it has a bottom out force of 57 grams, which positions it in the medium-light category. As a result, while the Grape Orange is the lighter option overall, providing a softer touch and less resistance, the RedBlue may offer a slightly firmer feel when fully pressed down, appealing to those who prefer a stronger push. Ultimately, the selection between these two switches will depend on personal preference for typing weight and tactile feedback.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Grape Orange linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, it's clear that the Grape Orange has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the RedBlue reaches 4 mm. This makes the Grape Orange the shorter option, providing a potentially more responsive feel for gamers or those who prefer quicker actuation. On the other hand, the RedBlue’s longer travel distance of 4 mm offers a more substantial depth, which may appeal to users who appreciate a fuller keypress experience. Thus, choosing between these two switches largely hinges on personal preference; those favoring speed might opt for the Grape Orange, while others looking for a more pronounced key actuation may lean towards the RedBlue.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When examining the sound characteristics of the Huano Grape Orange and SP-Star RedBlue linear switches, the Grape Orange lacks a definitive description in the provided information, leaving its acoustic signature somewhat ambiguous. In contrast, the RedBlue linear switches are notably low-pitched, producing a bass-heavy and mellow tone that might be more appealing for users desiring a quieter typing experience. Additionally, the RedBlue switches are characterized as thocky, providing a deep, rich sound that delivers satisfaction with each key press. This thocky quality, combined with their neutral sound profile, makes them versatile for various settings, from quiet home offices to bustling work environments. Ultimately, while the sound of the Grape Orange is less defined, users can expect a different auditory experience compared to the rich and subdued tones of the RedBlue.

In terms of feel, the Grape Orange switch is again not explicitly described, leaving its tactile feedback open to interpretation. The RedBlue switches, however, offer a mild feel, which lends itself to a gentle typing experience that is approachable for both beginners and seasoned typists. Additionally, the polished nature of the RedBlue switches suggests that users will benefit from a smooth key travel, reducing friction and enhancing the overall typing experience. This polished finish contributes to a refined sensation with every keystroke, making them suitable for long sessions of typing without discomfort. The lack of information on the feel of the Grape Orange leaves it unclear how it may compare in smoothness or tactile feedback.

In conclusion, while the Huano Grape Orange switch offers the promise of an effortless typing experience with its ultra-light actuation force, much about its sound and feel remains unspecified, making it challenging to assess its performance fully. In contrast, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch stands out with its well-rounded sound profile and mild, polished feel, making it a solid choice for typists who appreciate a balanced tactile and auditory experience. Although the Grape Orange may deliver a lightweight typing experience, users might find the RedBlue's sound and feel to be more defined and gratifying, particularly if they seek smoothness and a rich acoustic feedback. Ultimately, those looking for a fully fleshed-out linear switch may gravitate towards the RedBlue while remaining curious about the Grape Orange's undefined qualities.

Conclusion

To conclude, your choice between the Huano Grape Orange and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switches will largely depend on your preferences for typing feel, sound, and the type of tasks you typically engage in. If you prioritize an exceptionally light and effortless typing experience, especially for extended sessions, the Grape Orange is an ideal option with its low actuation force of just 40 grams and a bottom-out force of 50 grams. This makes it excellent for those who may find fatigue setting in during long typing work or gaming marathons. On the other hand, if you prefer a mid-level resistance that strikes a balance between comfort and feedback, the RedBlue switch with its medium-light bottom-out force of 57 grams may be more suitable for you. These switches offer a low-pitched, thocky sound profile that can provide a pleasant auditory experience without being too harsh. Additionally, the mild and polished feel of the RedBlue switch can enhance your typing experience, making it perfect for a variety of tasks, whether at home or in an office setting. Ultimately, your selection should be guided by whether you lean towards ultra-light responsiveness or prefer a more balanced tactile response that offers a bit more weight and character.

Mentioned in this article

Huano Grape Orange Linear

$3.00

$2.79 per 10

Learn more

SP-Star RedBlue Linear

$5.80

$5.40 per 10

Learn more