Cherry MX Speed Silver vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the SP-Star RedBlue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between two high-quality mechanical keyboard switches, the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the SP-Star RedBlue both offer unique features to consider. The MX Speed Silver is renowned for its lightning-fast response time, making it ideal for gamers seeking maximum speed and precision in every keystroke. In contrast, the RedBlue linear switches provide a comfortable typing experience with a medium-light touch, perfect for those looking for a smoother typing experience. While both switches offer advantages in different areas, such as low-pitched sound profiles and textured key presses, 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
1.20 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
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Cherry MX Speed Silver and the SP-Star RedBlue switches both have unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The MX Speed Silver features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue switches have a polycarbonate top housing, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile thanks to its stiffer plastic. While both housing materials have their distinct qualities, the nylon top housing of the MX Speed Silver produces a duller and rounder sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the RedBlue offers a clearer and resonant sound.
In terms of the bottom housings, the Cherry MX Speed Silver and the SP-Star RedBlue switches once again display differences in sound profiles. The nylon bottom housing of the MX Speed Silver contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile through sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Conversely, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the RedBlue creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer plastic material. These differences in housing materials play a significant role in the overall sound experience of each switch, with the MX Speed Silver offering a softer sound and the RedBlue a more clear and resonant sound.
While the Cherry MX Speed Silver and SP-Star RedBlue switches have different top and bottom housing materials, the impact of these materials can be felt in different ways during typing. The qualities of the bottom housing material will influence the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed, while the top housing material will affect the sound when releasing a key. This means that the overall typing experience and sound profile of each switch will be a result of the combination of the properties of their top and bottom housing materials. Despite these differences, each switch offers a unique sound profile based on their respective housing materials.
Weight
The Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 30 grams compared to the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the SP-Star RedBlue switch has a heavier bottom out force of 57 grams, while the bottom out force of the MX Speed Silver switch is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Cherry MX Speed Silver more suitable for longer typing sessions or gaming, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may gravitate towards the SP-Star RedBlue switch with its heavier bottom out force. Both switches offer different experiences in terms of actuation and bottom out force, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences for typing feel.
Travel distance
The Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4mm, while the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch has a travel distance of 4mm. In this case, the MX Speed Silver has a shorter travel distance compared to the RedBlue switch. A shorter travel distance can be preferred by gamers for faster response times, while a longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying and deep keystroke experience. Both switches offer different options for users looking for specific preferences in their typing experience. While the MX Speed Silver may provide quicker typing speeds, the RedBlue switch may offer a more substantial feel with a longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Cherry MX Speed Silver 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 Speed Silver 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
When it comes to sound, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue switch also offers a low-pitched sound with a neutral and thocky tone, making it suitable for a wide range of users. While both switches share a low-pitched sound profile, the MX Speed Silver may have a slightly deeper and richer tone compared to the RedBlue switch.
Moving on to feel, the MX Speed Silver switch is described as textured, providing a tactile feedback that some users may prefer for a more engaging typing experience. In contrast, the SP-Star RedBlue switch offers a mild and polished feel, giving users a smoother and more gentle typing experience that falls within a safe middle-ground zone. Both switches offer distinct tactile sensations, with the MX Speed Silver providing a more textured feel while the RedBlue switch offers a polished and refined typing experience.
In conclusion, the Cherry MX Speed Silver switch excels in providing a rapid and responsive typing experience perfect for gamers seeking speed and precision. Its thocky sound and textured feel make it a favorite among users looking for a tactile switch. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue switch offers a more versatile option with a low-pitched sound and a mild, polished feel that caters to a wider range of users. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preferences in sound, feel, and usage scenarios, but rest assured that both switches offer high-quality performance that will satisfy your mechanical keyboard needs.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the Cherry MX Speed Silver linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, you should consider your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize speed and instantaneous response, the MX Speed Silver would be the ideal choice with its linear action and low spring resistance, making it perfect for gamers who require rapid keystrokes. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light typing experience with a lower-pitched sound profile, the SP-Star RedBlue switch would be more suitable. Additionally, the RedBlue switch offers a more neutral feel with a polished finish for a smooth typing experience. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you value speed and responsiveness or a comfortable typing feel.
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