Gateron Mini i vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the Gateron Mini i and the SP-Star RedBlue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron Mini i and SP-Star RedBlue stand out for their unique characteristics. The Gateron Mini i is a tactile switch that offers a gentle tactility in each keystroke, making it ideal for office environments where a quiet professionalism is necessary. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue is a linear switch that provides a medium-light typing experience with a relatively low-pitched sound profile. While the Gateron Mini i is bouncy, easy-to-press, and subtle, the RedBlue is low-pitched, thocky, and polished. Both switches have their own set of advantages, but ultimately, the choice comes down to personal preference. 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
40g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
57g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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-stage spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Mini i and the SP-Star RedBlue, we see that the Mini i features a nylon top and bottom housing, while the RedBlue utilizes a polycarbonate top and bottom housing. The nylon housing in the Mini i provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate housing in the RedBlue offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile because of its stiffer nature, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. A clear housing, such as the polycarbonate used in the RedBlue, is also beneficial if RGB lighting is part of the setup, adding to its aesthetic appeal.
Despite the differences in housing materials, both switches deliver distinct sound profiles based on their respective nylon and polycarbonate constructions. The nylon housing in the Mini i emphasizes a deeper and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate housing in the RedBlue enhances a sharper and crisper sound. The impact of the housing material is evident when pressing down on the switch, with the qualities of the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. While the materials may differ, both switches offer unique sound experiences based on the properties of their respective housings.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron Mini i and the SP-Star RedBlue housing materials ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile and typing experience. The nylon housing of the Mini i provides a more mellow and round sound, ideal for those seeking a quieter typing experience. In contrast, the polycarbonate housing of the RedBlue offers a sharper and clearer sound, perfect for those who prefer a more distinct and resonant typing feel. Both switches showcase how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard switch, allowing users to customize their typing experience based on their individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, it is evident that the Mini i has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams compared to the RedBlue's unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Mini i is 50 grams, which is slightly heavier than the RedBlue's 57 grams. The Mini i provides a light typing experience, making it suitable for extended typing or gaming sessions where fatigue is a concern. In contrast, the RedBlue offers a medium-light push feel, giving users a more substantial typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Mini i, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance may opt for the RedBlue for a more tactile typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4mm, making it shorter than the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch which has a travel distance of 4mm. The Mini i's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for quicker response times, while the RedBlue's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth to keystrokes for some users. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for key feel and responsiveness. Overall, selecting the switch with the preferred travel distance will enhance the typing experience and overall satisfaction with the keyboard.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00 per 10 switches.
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 Gateron Mini i tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile that strikes a balance between being audible enough to provide satisfying feedback while remaining fairly muted to not be distracting in an office setting or shared space. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch provides a low-pitched sound profile with a thocky quality, offering a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. Both switches fall in the neutral category in terms of sound, making them suitable for a wide range of users and environments.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch is described as bouncy, easy-to-press, mild, snappy, subtle, and stepped. These characteristics combine to provide a typing experience that is responsive, comfortable, and suitable for extended use without causing finger fatigue. In contrast, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch is described as mild and polished, offering a gentle and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches offer a gentle typing experience that can cater to a majority of users seeking a comfortable and efficient typing feel.
In conclusion, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch both offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Mini i provides a more neutral sound profile with bouncy and snappy feel characteristics, the RedBlue switch offers a low-pitched sound profile with a polished and mild typing experience. Depending on personal preferences and typing needs, both switches can provide a satisfactory typing experience with their respective qualities. Ultimately, users can expect similar results in terms of overall user satisfaction and comfort from both of these reliable mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron Mini i tactile switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, consider the factors of weight, sound profile, and typing experience. If you prioritize a lightweight switch with a subtle tactility for comfortable typing in a quiet environment, the Gateron Mini i would be your best choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile and a smooth, polished finish for a sleek typing experience, the SP-Star RedBlue switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for typing feel and sound, as both switches offer unique characteristics catered to different user needs.
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