Outemu Gold vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the Outemu Gold and the SP-Star RedBlue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Gold and the SP-Star RedBlue offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Outemu Gold is a clicky switch that is best known for None. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue is a linear switch that stands out for its medium-light typing experience and low-pitched sound profile. While the Gold switch may appeal to those who enjoy the satisfying clicky feedback, the RedBlue switch is ideal for individuals seeking a smoother and quieter typing experience. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
57g
Pre-travel
1.80 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Gold and SP-Star RedBlue switches, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This material choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of polycarbonate. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Despite this similarity, the difference lies in the bottom housing material. The Gold utilizes nylon for its bottom housing, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile with a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the RedBlue utilizes polycarbonate for both top and bottom housings, maintaining the sharp and clear sound profile throughout.
The use of distinct bottom housing materials in the Outemu Gold and SP-Star RedBlue switches offers a noticeable difference in sound and feel. The nylon bottom housing of the Gold provides a unique typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile that is absorbed by the softer plastic, creating a rounder sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the RedBlue maintains the same sharp and clear sound profile as the top housing, contributing to a consistent typing experience. While the top housing primarily impacts the sound when releasing a key, the bottom housing has a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch. This distinction showcases how the choice of housing material can impact the overall typing experience.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Outemu Gold and SP-Star RedBlue switches ultimately determines the sound and feel of the typing experience. While both switches feature polycarbonate top housings for a sharp and crisp sound profile suitable for RGB lighting, the difference lies in the bottom housing material. The nylon bottom housing of the Gold offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the RedBlue maintains the sharp and clear sound profile throughout. Understanding how each housing material contributes to the overall typing experience can help users select the switch that best fits their preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, it is clear that the Gold switch is the lighter option with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, while the RedBlue switch is slightly heavier with a bottom out force of 57 grams and an unknown actuation force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Gold switch would be the more suitable choice, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, the RedBlue switch, with its slightly heavier bottom out force, would provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Overall, both switches offer medium to medium-light forces, providing users with a balanced typing experience depending on their preferences.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch is equal, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same amount of distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Therefore, the tactile feedback and key travel experience will be consistent regardless of which switch you choose. The similarity in travel distance between the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch ensures that users can expect similar results in terms of key press feel and response.
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 Outemu Gold comes in at $3.10 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 Outemu Gold clicky switch is known for providing a unique sound profile that may vary depending on the board and keycaps used. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch is characterized by a low-pitched sound that offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. The RedBlue switch is also described as neutral, making it suitable for various typing intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user.
Moving on to feel, the Outemu Gold switch does not have any specific descriptions available, while the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch is noted for offering a mild and polished typing experience. The mild feel of the RedBlue switch makes it accessible to most users, as it falls within a safe, middle-ground zone in terms of typing experience. Additionally, the polished finish of the RedBlue switch results in smooth key travel and reduced friction, contributing to an overall sleek typing feel.
In conclusion, the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel. While the Gold switch may provide a unique sound profile based on the setup used, the RedBlue switch is known for its low-pitched sound and gentle, polished feel. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience desired. If a user enjoys a medium-light typing experience with a low-pitched sound, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch would be a suitable choice.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, you should opt for the Outemu Gold if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force of 60 grams and a clicky typing experience. The Outemu Gold is best known for its clicky feedback and is suitable for those who enjoy a tactile typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force of 57 grams and a linear typing experience, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch is the way to go. These switches are best known for their low-pitched sound profile and are particularly suited for those who prefer a smooth and polished typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preference for typing feel and sound profile.
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