Cherry MX Red vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Red and the SP-Star RedBlue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Cherry MX Red and the SP-Star RedBlue, both linear switches. The Cherry MX Red is a classic choice known for its slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, providing a robust typing experience that combines responsiveness with a satisfying auditory depth. On the other hand, the RedBlue switches offer a medium-light typing experience with a relatively low-pitched sound profile, making them ideal for those who prefer a gentler touch. While the MX Red is categorized as 'Thocky', 'Low-pitched', and 'Textured', the RedBlue is labeled as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', and 'Polished'. Both switches have their own unique advantages and characteristics, so it ultimately 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
In comparing the Cherry MX Red and the SP-Star RedBlue, one can see a clear distinction in their housing materials. The MX Red features a nylon top housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the RedBlue utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The difference in material between these two switches greatly impacts the auditory experience during typing or gaming.
Similarly, when examining the bottom housing materials of the MX Red and the RedBlue, the contrast becomes even more apparent. The MX Red's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, mirroring its top housing material. Meanwhile, the RedBlue's polycarbonate bottom housing contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This difference in housing materials not only affects the sound produced by each switch but also adds to the overall typing or gaming experience for the user.
Overall, the use of different housing materials in the Cherry MX Red and the SP-Star RedBlue switches results in distinct sound profiles and tactile feedback. While the MX Red offers a softer and duller sound profile due to its nylon housing materials, the RedBlue delivers a crisper and more resonant sound with its polycarbonate housing. Regardless of these differences, both switches provide quality performance and can enhance the overall typing or gaming experience for users, showcasing the importance of housing materials in the construction of mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, it is evident that they offer different weight options for users. The MX Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it easier to type for longer periods without fatigue. However, the bottom out force for the MX Red is unknown, which may be a concern for those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue switch has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 57 grams, providing a more tactile feel during typing. The actuation force for the RedBlue switch is unknown, but it is described as medium-light, suggesting it may offer a comfortable balance between responsiveness and feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch is the same, both measuring at 4mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either switch, users will experience a consistent travel distance from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a smooth linear feel without any tactile feedback, making them ideal for fast-paced typing and gaming. With their equal travel distances, users can expect similar results in terms of keypress responsiveness and overall typing experience. Whether using the Cherry MX Red or the SP-Star RedBlue, users can enjoy a consistent and reliable typing experience with a travel distance of 4mm.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
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 Cherry MX Red switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue switch also delivers a low-pitched sound profile, along with a neutral characteristic that makes it suitable for a wide range of users. Both switches exhibit thocky qualities, ensuring a rich sound when keys are pressed and released, similar in depth but with a slight variance in tone.
When it comes to feel, the Cherry MX Red switch is described as having a textured feel, providing some friction when pressed. In contrast, the SP-Star RedBlue switch offers a mild typing experience with a polished feel, resulting in a smoother and more refined keypress. While the MX Red switch may offer a slightly rougher texture, the RedBlue switch provides a gentle and approachable typing feel that falls within a safe middle-ground zone, offering a smooth key travel with reduced friction.
Considering the information provided, the Cherry MX Red and SP-Star RedBlue switches offer distinct yet comparable qualities in terms of sound and feel. Both switches provide a thocky sound profile with a low-pitch tone, showcasing deep and satisfying auditory feedback. While the MX Red offers a textured feel with noticeable friction, the RedBlue switch presents a polished and mild typing experience, catering to users who prefer a smoother keypress. Ultimately, based on the given information, users can expect similar results in sound depth and satisfaction, with a slight difference in tactile feedback between the two switches.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Cherry MX Red linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, you should consider the type of typing experience you prefer. If you enjoy a slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, the MX Red may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, the RedBlue switch would be more suitable. Additionally, if you appreciate a textured feel, the MX Red may be more to your liking, while the RedBlue switch offers a mild and polished typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preferences for typing feel and sound.
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