Bsun Olive vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the Bsun Olive and the SP-Star RedBlue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the BSUN Olive and SP-Star RedBlue offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Olive switches are tactile and stand out for their resonant, deep sound, pronounced tactile feedback, and sharp bottom-out, making them 'Accented', 'Invigorating', 'Sharp', and 'Snappy'. On the other hand, the RedBlue switches are linear and known for providing a medium-light typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', and 'Polished'. Each switch has its own strengths and appeals to different users based on their typing style and preferences. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
57g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Bsun Olive and the SP-Star RedBlue both offer unique sound profiles in their housing materials, with the Olive featuring POM top and bottom housings, and the RedBlue featuring polycarbonate top and bottom housings. While the Olive's POM housing creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, the RedBlue's polycarbonate housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The use of polycarbonate in the RedBlue results in a more clear and resonant sound profile, especially beneficial if RGB lighting is a factor in your switch choice.
In terms of aesthetics, the Bsun Olive and SP-Star RedBlue differ significantly in their housing materials. The POM housing of the Olive is not translucent, creating a sleek and solid appearance without the ability to showcase RGB lighting. On the other hand, the polycarbonate housing of the RedBlue is transparent, allowing for a vibrant display of RGB lighting effects. This difference in transparency not only affects the visual appeal of the switch but also influences the sound profile, with the polycarbonate material contributing to a sharper and more resonant sound compared to the POM material of the Olive.
Furthermore, the arrangement of the housing materials in a switch, whether it be the Bsun Olive or the SP-Star RedBlue, can have a significant impact on the overall feel and sound of the switch. The split between the top and bottom housings means that the qualities of each material will be felt differently during keystrokes. The bottom housing typically influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, understanding the characteristics of the housing materials in both the top and bottom of a switch can help in determining the overall sound and feel of the switch during use.
Weight
The Bsun Olive tactile switch has a higher actuation force of 45 grams and a slightly higher bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. In contrast, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch has an unknown actuation force and a lower bottom out force of 57 grams, making it a medium-light option. Individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the RedBlue switch, as it requires less force to bottom out. Conversely, those seeking a more substantial typing feel may appreciate the Olive switch with its higher actuation and bottom out forces. Both switches offer a different typing experience, so choosing between the two would depend on personal preference for lighter or heavier actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Bsun Olive tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the RedBlue switch has a longer travel distance compared to the Olive switch. The 3.4 mm travel distance of the Olive switch falls within the range of shorter travel distances that are becoming increasingly popular, especially among gamers who prioritize faster response times. On the other hand, the 4 mm travel distance of the RedBlue switch offers a bit more depth, which some users may find more comfortable and less abrupt. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for travel distance and how it affects your typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Olive has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Olive for $4.70.
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 BSUN Olive tactile switch produces a resonant and deep tone thanks to its POM housings and unique design, creating a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch offers a low-pitched sound profile that is relatively mellow, making it suitable for users looking for a more subtle typing experience. Both switches provide distinct sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Olive offering a deeper tone compared to the RedBlue's more neutral sound.
In terms of feel, the Olive tactile switch is known for its accented and invigorating tactile feedback, providing a sharp and snappy typing experience. This results in a tactile sensation that is immersive and responsive, perfect for users who enjoy a more pronounced tactile bump. On the other hand, the RedBlue linear switch offers a mild and polished feel, delivering a gentle typing experience with smooth key travel. These qualities make the RedBlue switch approachable and comfortable for a wide range of users, striking a balance between feedback and smoothness.
In conclusion, the BSUN Olive tactile switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Olive switch excels in providing a deep and resonant sound with pronounced tactile feedback, the RedBlue switch offers a more subtle and gentle typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the two switches to achieve their desired typing experience. Ultimately, both switches provide quality performance and satisfaction in their distinct ways, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for newcomers to the world of mechanical keyboard switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Bsun Olive tactile switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a tactile typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom out force, along with a resonant and deep sound profile, the Bsun Olive switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a medium-light bottom out force, along with a low-pitched sound profile and a smooth typing experience, the SP-Star RedBlue switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your preference for tactile feedback and sound profile will determine which switch best suits your typing style and preferences.
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