HMX Lucky vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the HMX Lucky and the SP-Star RedBlue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the HMX Lucky and SP-Star RedBlue both offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The HMX Lucky features a softer, glittery nylon housing that contributes to a deeply satisfying and neutral typing experience, making it an excellent choice for those seeking comfort and a touch of aesthetic flair. In contrast, the SP-Star RedBlue switches provide a medium-light feel with a low-pitched sound profile, ideal for users who appreciate a more pronounced auditory feedback while typing. While both switches fall under the linear category, the distinctive qualities of the Lucky—such as its lightweight design—and the RedBlue's polished thocky sound offer varying experiences that can significantly influence your typing satisfaction. 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
37g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
43g
Bottom-out force
57g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm double-staged spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the HMX Lucky and the SP-Star RedBlue, a distinct divergence in material choice becomes evident. The Lucky utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings, known for its softer characteristics that contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This softness allows the nylon to absorb sound more effectively than harder plastics, resulting in a more muted and rounder acoustic experience. Conversely, the RedBlue opts for polycarbonate in both the top and bottom housings, a material known for its stiffness. This stiffness produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile that enhances clarity and resonance. Consequently, while the Lucky's nylon may deliver a warm and billowy auditory experience, the RedBlue's polycarbonate offers a bright and articulated sound.
The implications of these material differences extend beyond sound alone; they also influence the tactile feel and aesthetic qualities of the switches. The nylon in the HMX Lucky provides a smoother feel when typing due to its softness and ability to cushion impact, which can be perceived as more comfortable during extended use. On the other hand, the polycarbonate housing of the SP-Star RedBlue not only contributes to a precise auditory experience but also features a translucent quality that makes it particularly appealing for setups with RGB lighting. This aesthetic advantage allows for vibrant lighting effects that can enhance the overall visual appeal of a keyboard, a feature that is not as pronounced with the opaque nylon material of the Lucky.
Despite these differences, both switches can yield similar results in terms of typing experience and sound when utilized in specific contexts. For instance, if an individual values a soft and muted auditory profile, but prefers the aesthetics and compatibility of RGB lighting, they may be able to achieve a more balanced sound profile by combining the nylon housing characteristics of the Lucky with certain typing techniques or usage scenarios. Conversely, those who favor the sharpness of the RedBlue can still enjoy a moderated experience by adapting their typing style to minimize the pronounced sound the polycarbonate typically offers. This versatility illustrates that while the materials have distinct qualities, user preference and technique can play a significant role in shaping the overall keyboard experience.
Weight
The HMX Lucky linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch present distinct characteristics in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Lucky switch requires a light actuation force of 37 grams and a slightly heavier bottom out force of 43 grams, making it suitable for prolonged typing sessions and gaming due to its lighter touch. In contrast, the RedBlue switch has an unknown actuation force but features a bottom out force of 57 grams, which is categorized as medium-light, indicating a firmer press needed to reach the bottom. Although the specific actuation force of the RedBlue is not provided, its bottom out force suggests that it may appeal to users who prefer a more substantial keystroke experience, as it requires more force to bottom out compared to the Lucky. Consequently, the HMX Lucky switch is the lighter option, while the SP-Star RedBlue switch is the heavier one due to its higher bottom out force. This contrast highlights the importance of personal preference in selecting a switch, with the lighter Lucky being ideal for sustained use, while the heavier RedBlue may cater to those who favor a more tactile feedback.
Travel distance
The HMX Lucky linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch features a slightly longer travel distance of 4.0 mm. This difference may impact the user experience significantly; the Lucky's shorter travel distance could cater to gamers seeking quicker response times and a more responsive feel, whereas the RedBlue's length may appeal to those who appreciate a more pronounced actuation depth. For users who prefer a hearty depth while typing or gaming, the RedBlue may be the better choice, while those who value speed might prefer the Lucky. In summary, the Lucky is the shorter option, and the RedBlue is the longer one.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The HMX Lucky has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lucky for $2.99.
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 HMX Lucky switch produces an intriguing audio profile characterized by a soothing and neutral tone that generally caters well to varied environments, making it suitable for both home and workplace settings. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue switch embraces a low-pitched sound signature, which tends to be more bass-heavy, offering a mellow and thocky auditory experience with a rich depth upon actuation. The richness of the sound from the RedBlue can create an almost satisfying thud, resonating nicely when pressed and released. While both switches may excel in delivering a relatively pleasing sound experience, the nuances depend significantly on the overall build of the keyboard and the keycap material.
Regarding the feel, the HMX Lucky switch provides a neutral typing experience, emphasizing comfort and satisfaction with every keystroke. This approachability makes it an excellent option for a wide audience, whether they are beginners or experienced typists. Contrarily, the SP-Star RedBlue switch offers a medium-light typing experience that feels mild and polished. This smoothness can be attributed to refined manufacturing processes, resulting in reduced friction during use and an overall comfortable interaction, allowing users to type for extended periods without discomfort.
In conclusion, while both the HMX Lucky and SP-Star RedBlue linear switches cater to slightly different preferences, they share a common ground in providing a pleasurable typing experience. The Lucky excels in delivering a neutral sound and feel, ideal for those seeking comfort and versatility. In contrast, the RedBlue lures users with its low-pitched, thocky character and polished touch, making it a favorable choice for those who appreciate a gentle yet engaging typing sensation. Ultimately, both switches can deliver satisfying results, making it possible for newcomers to find their preferred typing feel and sound with either option.
Conclusion
To conclude, when choosing between the HMX Lucky linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, consider your personal preferences for typing experience and sound profile. If you prefer a lighter touch with a typing experience that feels satisfying and neutral, the HMX Lucky is an excellent choice. Its 43-gram bottom-out force coupled with its softer nylon housing makes it ideal for those who enjoy a quick, easy key press without the strain that can accompany heavier switches. Additionally, the sound profile of the Lucky is likely to be a pleasant match for users who appreciate a softer typing experience. On the other hand, if you're someone who leans towards a medium-light typing feel with a bit more feedback, the SP-Star RedBlue might be your best option. With a bottom-out force of 57 grams, the RedBlue offers a more polished and mild typing experience that can be particularly appealing for both novice and experienced typists alike. Its low-pitched sound profile gives it a distinct yet approachable auditory characteristic, making it suitable for a variety of environments, from quiet workspaces to casual gaming setups. Ultimately, your choice will depend on whether you value a lighter, more responsive switch or prefer a slightly more substantial typing experience with a rich sound profile.
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