Everglide Oreo vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the Everglide Oreo and the SP-Star RedBlue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The Everglide Oreo and the SP-Star RedBlue are two mechanical keyboard switches with distinct characteristics. The Oreo is a tactile switch renowned for its delightful tactile bump and cushioned sensation when bottoming out. It offers a medium-light tactility, striking the perfect balance between satisfying keystrokes and a comfortable typing experience. Typing on the Oreos produces a subtle and mellow sound profile. On the other hand, the RedBlue is a linear switch that caters to those who prefer a medium-light typing experience. It has a relatively higher-pitched sound profile and is categorized as low-pitched, neutral, mild, thocky, and polished. Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on individual preferences. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Everglide Oreo and the SP-Star RedBlue, specifically the polycarbonate top and bottom housings, share several similarities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate as a housing material, which results in similar sound profiles characterized by sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper tones. Polycarbonate's stiffness contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a satisfying auditory experience while typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate enables the use of RGB lighting, adding an aesthetically appealing element to the switches.
However, despite these similarities, it is worth noting that the top and bottom housings of the Oreo and RedBlue differ. The Oreo features a separate polycarbonate top and bottom housing, while the RedBlue employs polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing. Consequently, these variations may lead to some differences in the overall typing experience. The top housing of a switch usually influences the sound when a key is released, while the bottom housing impacts the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down. Therefore, users may notice variations in the key release sound and the tactile feedback when comparing the two switches.
In summary, the Everglide Oreo and the SP-Star RedBlue housing materials present a lot of similarities due to their common use of polycarbonate. Both switches offer sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profiles, thanks to polycarbonate's stiffness and clear resonance. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for those interested in incorporating RGB lighting into their typing setup. However, the Oreo and RedBlue differ in terms of their top and bottom housing arrangements, which may result in variations in the sound and feel experienced when pressing and releasing keys.
Weight
When comparing the Everglide Oreo tactile switch to the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, there are noticeable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Oreo switch has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it a medium-light switch. In contrast, the actuation force of the RedBlue switch is unknown, but it has a bottom out force of 57 grams, also classifying it as a medium-light switch.
Considering the weight aspect, individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Oreo switch. This lighter actuation force allows for longer typing sessions, making it suitable for those using a keyboard for work or extended gaming periods. However, for those who desire a more robust and substantial typing feel, they may prefer the RedBlue switch with its slightly heavier bottom out force of 57 grams.
While the actuation force of the RedBlue switch is not specified, we can assume that it is either lighter or equal to the Oreo switch, as both are categorized as medium-light. For users seeking a similar typing experience to the Oreo switch, they may find comparable results with the RedBlue switch in terms of actuation force.
Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference and typing style. Those who value lighter switches for extended use or prefer a stronger push feel may find the Oreo or RedBlue switches more suitable, respectively.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Everglide Oreo tactile switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch is equal, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either switch, you will feel the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. So, if you are looking for consistent tactile feedback and a satisfying keystroke experience, both switches will provide similar results. However, it is worth noting that while the travel distances are the same, the overall typing experience may differ due to the tactile nature of the Oreo switch compared to the linear nature of the RedBlue switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Everglide Oreo has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Oreo for $4.19.
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 Everglide Oreo tactile switch offers a subtle, mellow sound profile. These switches have a chirpy quality, giving them a unique acoustic signature. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switches have a relatively higher-pitched sound profile. They are described as low-pitched, which means they have a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Additionally, the RedBlue switches are also thocky, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed.
In terms of feel, the Everglide Oreo tactile switch provides a delightful and cushioned sensation when bottoming out. It is described as accented, which means it offers a medium amount of tactility that is prominent, but not overwhelming. The Oreo switches also have a stepped feel, meaning they have two stages of tactile feedback. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switches offer a mild typing experience, which is more gentle compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. They have a polished finish, resulting in a sleek and smooth typing experience with reduced friction.
Based on the available information, the Everglide Oreo tactile switches and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switches offer different subjective qualities. The Oreos provide a medium-light tactility with a subtle and mellow sound profile. They give a crisp and responsive tactile bump followed by a cushioned sensation when bottoming out. On the other hand, the RedBlue switches offer a medium-light typing experience with a higher-pitched sound profile. They have a mild feel and a polished finish for a gentle and smooth typing experience.
Overall, if you prefer a more tactile and mellow experience with a unique sound, the Everglide Oreo tactile switches are a great choice. However, if you prefer a lighter typing experience with a higher-pitched sound and a polished feel, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switches would suit you better. Keep in mind that these subjective qualities can also be influenced by factors such as your choice of keyboard board and keycaps.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a tactile switch that offers a satisfying keystroke and comfortable typing experience, with a medium light tactility, the Everglide Oreo would be a great choice. These switches provide a crisp and responsive tactile bump at the top, followed by a cushioned sensation when bottoming out, giving your fingertips a delightful treat. The Oreo also has a subtle, mellow sound profile, providing a pleasant typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a medium-light typing experience, the SP-Star RedBlue would be the way to go. These switches offer a relatively higher-pitched sound profile, giving a unique acoustic signature. The RedBlue switches are versatile and suitable for various purposes, whether you're a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use them at home or work.
In terms of feel, the Oreo switches are described as accented and stepped, providing a medium tactile experience with a noticeable amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. On the other hand, the RedBlue switches offer a mild and polished typing experience, with a gentle touch and reduced friction, resulting in smooth and refined keystrokes.
Ultimately, the decision between the Everglide Oreo tactile switches and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switches will depend on your personal preferences. If you prioritize a tactile typing experience and a subtle sound profile, the Oreo switches would be an excellent choice. However, if you prefer a linear switch with a higher-pitched sound and a smooth, polished feel, the RedBlue switches would be more suitable for you. Consider your typing style, preferences, and the environment in which you'll be using the keyboard to make the best decision.
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