Cherry MX Black vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Black and the SP-Star RedBlue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Cherry MX Black and the SP-Star RedBlue. The Cherry MX Black is a linear switch that is best known for its iconic design and smooth texture, thanks to Cherry's new Hyperglide tooling. Typing on these switches offers a familiar deep sound profile, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a low-pitched and textured feel while typing. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switches offer something different. These switches are particularly favored by those who prefer a medium-light typing experience, as they provide a relatively higher-pitched sound profile. Additionally, the RedBlue switches are categorized as low-pitched, neutral, mild, thocky, and polished, adding a unique touch to the typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
60g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
80g
Bottom-out force
57g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Cherry MX Black and the SP-Star RedBlue switches differ in terms of their composition and sound profiles. The MX Black's nylon top and bottom housings create a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to the softer nature of nylon as compared to harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing. Conversely, the RedBlue's polycarbonate top and bottom housings produce a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate. The use of polycarbonate in the top housing is especially advantageous if you plan to utilize RGB lighting, as its translucency enhances the lighting effect.
In terms of aesthetics, while both switches have different top and bottom housing materials, the presence of a clear housing is indicative of the polycarbonate construction. This makes it more likely for the SP-Star RedBlue to feature a clear top housing, which can be visually appealing when used with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the MX Black's nylon top housing may not provide the same level of aesthetic appeal in terms of lighting effects. However, both switches offer distinctive sound profiles owing to the differences in their housing materials, giving users a range of options to choose from based on their desired typing or gaming experience.
When it comes to the impact on sound and feel, the bottom housing material of a switch plays a crucial role. In the case of the MX Black, the nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile upon bottoming out a key. Conversely, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the RedBlue produces a sharper and crisper sound when bottoming out the keys. On the other hand, the top housing material has a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key. In both switches, the qualities of the housing materials are split between the top and bottom, resulting in distinct sound profiles during both key press and key release.
Overall, while the MX Black and SP-Star RedBlue switches may share the use of nylon and polycarbonate housing materials respectively, their differences in sound profiles and aesthetic capabilities set them apart. The MX Black offers a deeper and fuller sound while the RedBlue provides a sharper and higher-pitched sound. Additionally, the polycarbonate housing of the RedBlue is advantageous for RGB lighting enthusiasts. Understanding the impact of each housing material on key press and release can help users make an informed decision based on their personal preferences and desired typing or gaming experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Cherry MX Black and SP-Star RedBlue linear switches, some notable differences emerge. The MX Black has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, making it relatively heavy in both respects. On the other hand, the RedBlue's actuation force is unavailable, making it difficult to compare directly. However, its bottom out force is 57 grams, which falls in the medium-light range.
Considering the weight of a switch is important for various reasons. Those who prefer a lighter weight may benefit from the MX Black, as it allows for extended typing sessions without causing fatigue. This makes it an ideal choice for individuals needing a keyboard for work or for long gaming sessions. In contrast, the RedBlue could provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. This may result in a more satisfying and tactile response while typing.
Although the exact actuation force of the RedBlue switch is unknown, it is likely to fall somewhere within a comparable range to the MX Black, as they are both linear switches. Therefore, individuals seeking similar results to the MX Black in terms of actuation force may find the RedBlue switch to be a suitable alternative. Overall, while the MX Black is heavier in both actuation and bottom out force, the RedBlue offers a medium-light bottom out force, providing a lighter and potentially more comfortable typing experience.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Black linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch have equal travel distances of 4 mm. This means that both switches travel the same distance from top to bottom when you press down on a key. As a result, users can expect a similar tactile experience when typing or gaming on keyboards equipped with these switches. Whether it's the Cherry MX Black or the SP-Star RedBlue, the travel distance will remain consistent, providing a familiar feel for users accustomed to either switch.
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 Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00 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
When it comes to sound, the MX Black switches offer a low-pitched sound profile. This means that they produce a more bass-heavy and mellow tone when typing. On the other hand, the RedBlue switches also have a low-pitched sound profile, but they are also described as thocky. This means that they produce a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. Think of a deep "thud" or a soft "knock" when the key is pressed and released. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen. Overall, both switches provide a similar sound experience, with the RedBlue switches adding a thocky element to their sound.
In terms of feel, the MX Black switches offer a textured and stiff typing experience. The textured aspect refers to the noticeable friction felt when pressing the switches, which some users may prefer. Additionally, the MX Black switches require a higher amount of force to actuate and bottom-out compared to other switches, resulting in a stiffer feel. On the other hand, the RedBlue switches provide a mild and polished typing experience. The mild aspect means that they offer a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The polished aspect refers to the smooth and refined finish of the switches, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches provide different feels, with the MX Black switches being textured and stiff, while the RedBlue switches are mild and polished.
In conclusion, the MX Black and RedBlue switches offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The MX Black switches provide a low-pitched sound profile with a textured and stiff typing experience. On the other hand, the RedBlue switches offer a low-pitched and thocky sound profile along with a mild and polished typing experience. While the two switches differ in their characteristics, they both deliver satisfying typing experiences. If you prefer a more bass-heavy and mellow sound with noticeable friction, the MX Black switches would suit you. Alternatively, if you enjoy a low-pitched thocky sound with a smoother typing experience, the RedBlue switches would be a good choice. Ultimately, it is important to consider personal preferences and factors such as keycap and keyboard board choices when making a decision.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a heavy switch that offers a classic textured smoothness and a deep sound profile, the Cherry MX Black linear switch is the way to go. It has a bottom out force of 80 grams, making it suitable for those who prefer a heavier typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light typing experience with a relatively higher-pitched sound profile, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch is the better choice. With a bottom out force of 57 grams, it provides a more gentle and approachable typing experience. Additionally, the RedBlue switch has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various environments and skill levels. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for typing feel and sound, as well as the level of force you prefer while typing.
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