Outemu Red vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the Outemu Red and the SP-Star RedBlue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Red and SP-Star RedBlue are both linear switches that offer different typing experiences. The Outemu Red switch is best known for its smooth and consistent keystrokes, making it a popular choice for gamers who prioritize speed and accuracy. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue switch stands out for providing a medium-light typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, appealing to those who prefer a quieter and more tactile feel. While the Red switch is categorized as a standard linear switch, the RedBlue switch is categorized as low-pitched, neutral, mild, thocky, and polished. Each switch has its unique advantages; however, let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can decide which switch is best for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
46g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
57g
Pre-travel
2.10 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 Red and SP-Star RedBlue switches, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housings. This choice promotes a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, as polycarbonate is known for its stiffness that leads to a clear and resonant sound. The use of polycarbonate also allows for translucency, making it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. However, the Outemu Red features a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the SP-Star RedBlue opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing, aligning with the stiffer plastic for a clear and resonant sound.
Despite their differences in bottom housing materials, the Outemu Red and SP-Star RedBlue switches share similar characteristics in their choice of polycarbonate for the top housing. This consistency ensures that both switches produce a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience. However, the variation in bottom housing materials allows for distinct sound characteristics when pressing down on the keys. The nylon bottom housing of the Outemu Red creates a deeper and fuller sound upon bottoming out, whereas the polycarbonate bottom housing of the SP-Star RedBlue maintains a clear and resonant sound throughout typing.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the Outemu Red and SP-Star RedBlue switches demonstrates a balance between sound profile and typing experience. While both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing to achieve a sharp and clear sound profile, the distinction in bottom housing materials allows for unique sound characteristics during typing. The softer nylon bottom housing of the Outemu Red creates a deeper and fuller sound upon bottoming out, while the stiffer polycarbonate bottom housing of the SP-Star RedBlue ensures a clear and resonant sound profile. Despite these differences, both switches offer quality sound profiles tailored to individual preferences.
Weight
The Outemu Red linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force of 46 grams compared to the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, which has a force that is not specified. However, when looking at the bottom out force, the Outemu Red requires 62 grams of force while the SP-Star RedBlue requires 57 grams. This makes the SP-Star RedBlue switch slightly lighter in terms of bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the SP-Star RedBlue may be the better choice, as it allows for smoother typing and less fatigue during long typing sessions. On the other hand, the Outemu Red may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel with a slightly heavier actuation force. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing force and feel.
Travel distance
The Outemu Red linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This similarity ensures that users will get consistent results in terms of keypress feel and response when using either switch. Overall, the travel distance of both switches is the same, providing a familiar typing experience regardless of which switch is used.
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 Red 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 Red linear switch is often described as having a standard sound profile with no particularly distinctive characteristics. On the other hand, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch is known for its low-pitched sound, giving it a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to other switches. This can provide a satisfying and distinct auditory experience while typing, especially for those who enjoy a quieter and deeper sound profile.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Red linear switch has no specific descriptors provided, indicating that it likely offers a standard typing experience without any standout features. Conversely, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch is described as having a mild and polished feel. The mild typing experience suggests a gentle feel while typing, making it approachable to most users. Additionally, the polished finish of the switch results in smooth key travel and reduced friction, enhancing the overall typing experience.
Taking all the available information into account, the Outemu Red and SP-Star RedBlue linear switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Outemu Red switch may provide a standard and reliable typing experience, the SP-Star RedBlue switch stands out with its low-pitched sound profile and gentle, polished feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and typing feel, but both are capable of delivering a satisfying typing experience. If one enjoys a deeper, low-pitched sound and a smooth, polished feel while typing, the SP-Star RedBlue switch may be the preferred choice.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Outemu Red linear switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, it all comes down to your personal preferences. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and a neutral sound and feel, the Outemu Red might be the better choice for you. However, if you are looking for a lighter bottom out force, a low-pitched sound profile, and a more polished feel, then the SP-Star RedBlue switch could be the ideal option. Consider your typing preferences and the type of experience you want from your mechanical keyboard when making your decision. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it ultimately comes down to what feels best for you.
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