Bsun Jade Rosales vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the Bsun Jade Rosales and the SP-Star RedBlue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Jade Rosales and the SP-Star RedBlue offer two distinct approaches to a linear typing experience. The Jade Rosales, crafted by XY Studio, stands out for its exceptional smoothness, achieved through a year of meticulous refinement involving custom housings, stems, and advanced lubrication techniques. This switch is ideal for users seeking an ultra-smooth feel, making it a top choice for those who value seamless keystrokes. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue switches are designed for a medium-light typing experience, characterized by a low-pitched sound profile that adds a pleasant auditory element to typing. The RedBlue’s distinct attributes cater to users who prefer a balanced blend of tactile feedback and auditory satisfaction, with descriptors such as "thocky" and "polished" reflecting its unique qualities. While both switches fall under the linear category, the Jade Rosales emphasizes smoothness and refinement, whereas the RedBlue offers a combination of mid-range resistance and a pleasing sound. 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
57g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Y3X
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Custom Milky Material
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.5mm single-stage nickel-plated spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Bsun Jade Rosales and the SP-Star RedBlue switches, it becomes evident that both feature polycarbonate as the material for their top housings. This shared choice enhances the auditory experience, as polycarbonate is known for producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The rigidity of polycarbonate contributes to a clear and resonant tonality, making it an ideal candidate for switches designed for RGB lighting due to its translucency. Both switches will deliver similar results in terms of the top housing's performance because they utilize the same material, ensuring that users will experience that distinctive clarity and sharpness when hearing the keypress sounds or seeing the RGB lights shine through.
However, the bottom housings of the two switches present a contrasting choice in materials, which will inevitably influence the overall performance and tactile sensation of each switch. The Bsun Jade Rosales utilizes a proprietary Custom Milky Material for its bottom housing, while the SP-Star RedBlue features a polycarbonate bottom housing. This difference suggests that the feel and sound characteristics during the bottoming-out phase will vary between the two switches. While polycarbonate, like in the RedBlue, contributes to a clear sound, the Jade Rosales's unique blend could introduce distinct acoustic properties and tactile feedback, potentially softening or altering the bottom-out sound compared to its polycarbonate counterpart.
In essence, the combination of materials in both switches plays a crucial role in their overall sound and feel. While both switches boast polycarbonate top housings that deliver crisp auditory results, the differing bottom housing materials add uniqueness to each switch's performance. The Jade Rosales's Custom Milky Material is likely to provide a different tactile and auditory experience during keypresses compared to the fully polycarbonate housing of the RedBlue. As a result, users will need to consider how the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel alongside the clearer, more defined top-end response provided by both switches.
Weight
When comparing the Bsun Jade Rosales linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, their actuation and bottom out forces reveal some interesting differences. The Jade Rosales has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, while the RedBlue's actuation force is unspecified, but its bottom out force is 57 grams. This suggests that the Jade Rosales has a lighter feel, making it more suitable for long typing sessions or extended gaming, as users may find less strain with its medium-light actuation. In contrast, the RedBlue switch, with its higher bottom out force, may provide a more substantial tactile experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel, although the unknown actuation force leaves us unclear on its overall performance until that information is available. Consequently, while the Jade Rosales is the lighter of the two, the RedBlue may cater better to those who appreciate a firmer touch in their typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Jade Rosales linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, there is a clear distinction: the Jade Rosales features a travel distance of 3.5 mm, whereas the RedBlue has a travel distance of 4 mm. This makes the Jade Rosales the shorter option, catering to those who prefer quicker response times that can be beneficial for gaming. In contrast, the RedBlue's longer travel distance provides a more substantial press, which some users may find more satisfying and conducive to typing. Consequently, users seeking a snappier feel might gravitate toward the Jade Rosales, while those who appreciate a deeper keystroke may opt for the RedBlue. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences regarding responsiveness versus depth.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Jade Rosales has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jade Rosales for $5.39.
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
In terms of sound, the BSUN Jade Rosales switches offer a nuanced profile that can enhance the tactile experience; however, specific details about their sound characteristics are not provided. In contrast, the SP-Star RedBlue switches are noted for their low-pitched sound, delivering a deeper and mellower tone that is often perceived as more soothing. They are also described as producing a thocky sound, characterized by a rich and satisfying "thud" when the key is pressed and released. This combination of a low-pitched and thocky sound suggests that the RedBlue switches might provide a more engaging auditory experience, particularly for those who appreciate a bassier keyboard tone.
When considering feel, the Jade Rosales switches are renowned for their exceptionally smooth typing experience, although the exact qualitative attributes are not specified. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue switches offer a mild typing feel that is gentle and approachable for most users. Additionally, they are described as polished, indicating a slick and refined typing experience due to either the materials used or factory lubrication. This results in minimized friction and smooth key travel, which can be comforting during extended typing sessions.
Overall, while the BSUN Jade Rosales switches stand out for their smoothness and refined design, the SP-Star RedBlue switches offer a delightful combination of a low-pitched, thocky sound and a mild, polished feel. Each switch caters to different preferences, but both can deliver a satisfying typing experience. If you are seeking a smooth and refined typing experience with the Jade Rosales, you may find them equally pleasant as the RedBlue's polished feel. However, the auditory engagement of the RedBlue may make it preferable for those who prioritize sound along with feel.
Conclusion
To conclude, your choice between the Bsun Jade Rosales and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switches ultimately depends on your personal preferences and typing habits. If you prioritize an exceptionally smooth and refined typing experience and desire a slight edge in typing effort, the Jade Rosales with its meticulously crafted design and luxurious feel might be the ideal choice for you. Its medium-light 53-gram actuation force makes it a comfortable option for long typing sessions, while its unique characteristics could enhance your overall satisfaction. On the other hand, if you appreciate a more balanced sound profile with a touch of depth, the RedBlue linear switch is worth considering. Its medium-light 57-gram force provides a reliable actuation that's suitable for both casual and professional settings, combined with mild and polished sensations that cater to most typists. The low-pitched and thocky sound can create a pleasant auditory environment, making it a fantastic choice if you enjoy a rich typing experience without overwhelming noise. Ultimately, evaluate what aspects matter most to you—whether it's the advanced craftsmanship of the Jade Rosales or the well-rounded nature of the RedBlue—and select the switch that will elevate your typing enjoyment.
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