Outemu Spring Breeze vs. SP-Star RedBlue
An in-depth look at the Outemu Spring Breeze and the SP-Star RedBlue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Spring Breeze and the SP-Star RedBlue offer distinct experiences for users. The Spring Breeze is a clicky switch, known for its tactile feedback and audible click sound upon actuation. On the other hand, the RedBlue is a linear switch that provides a smooth keystroke without any tactile bump or audible click. The RedBlue is ideal for those who prefer a softer typing experience and a relatively low-pitched sound profile. While the Spring Breeze offers a more pronounced feedback and clicky sound.Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. 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
40g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
57g
Pre-travel
1.50 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
Nylon
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 Spring Breeze and the SP-Star RedBlue, it is clear that the Spring Breeze utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housings, while the RedBlue opts for polycarbonate for both. The use of nylon in the Spring Breeze results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature and sound-absorbing qualities. In contrast, the RedBlue's polycarbonate housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, thanks to its stiffer composition. The Spring Breeze's nylon housing provides a duller and rounder sound, while the RedBlue's polycarbonate housing offers a more clear and resonant sound.
Although the top and bottom housing materials differ between the Spring Breeze and RedBlue switches, the overall impact on sound and feel is similar. The nylon bottom housing of the Spring Breeze contributes to a deeper and fuller sound when pressing down on a key, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the RedBlue creates a sharper and crisper sound upon key press. Similarly, the nylon top housing of the Spring Breeze results in a duller and rounder sound when releasing a key, while the polycarbonate top housing of the RedBlue produces a clearer and more resonant sound upon key release. Both housing materials play a crucial role in the overall sound profile and typing experience of each switch.
The contrasting materials of nylon and polycarbonate in the housing of the Spring Breeze and RedBlue switches offer enthusiasts a choice between a fuller, deeper sound profile with nylon or a sharper, crisper sound profile with polycarbonate. The translucency of polycarbonate in the RedBlue switch also makes it ideal for RGB lighting effects, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switch. Ultimately, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate housing materials depends on the desired sound and typing experience, as well as any preference for RGB lighting integration.
Weight
The Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch has a lighter actuation force compared to the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, with 40 grams versus None grams, respectively. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Spring Breeze is slightly lighter at 55 grams compared to the RedBlue's 57 grams. Both switches fall into the category of medium-light in terms of force required. This means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of the weight needed to activate the keys, but may notice a slight difference in the force required to bottom out. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding typing feel and the desired weight of the keys.
Travel distance
The Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom is the same. Both switches offer a consistent key press experience in terms of travel distance. Whether you choose the Spring Breeze clicky switch or the RedBlue linear switch, you can expect similar results in terms of the distance the switch travels when actuated.
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 Spring Breeze 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 Spring Breeze clicky switch does not have a defined reputation, whereas the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch is known for its low-pitched sound profile. The Spring Breeze may provide a unique sound experience based on individual preferences and setup, while the RedBlue linear switches offer a mellow and bass-heavy tone, creating a satisfying auditory feedback. The choice of keycaps and keyboard itself can also influence the sound produced.
In terms of feel, the Spring Breeze switch's tactile feedback and typing experience are not specified, while the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch is described as providing a mild and gentle typing experience. The RedBlue switches are also noted for their polished finish, ensuring a smooth and refined keypress with reduced friction. This results in a comfortable and approachable typing feel that appeals to a wide range of users.
Overall, the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch offer different qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Spring Breeze's characteristics remain subjective, the RedBlue linear switches are known for their low-pitched sound and polished feel. Depending on personal preferences and typing style, users may find the Spring Breeze switch to offer a unique experience, while the RedBlue linear switches provide a pleasant and smooth typing experience suitable for a variety of users. Ultimately, both switches have their own strengths, and users can expect a satisfying typing experience from either choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch and the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch, it all comes down to personal preferences. If you enjoy a clicky switch with a medium-light bottom out force and are looking for a unique typing experience, the Spring Breeze may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with a medium-light bottom out force, a low-pitched sound profile, and a smooth, polished feel, the RedBlue switch might be the better option. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on what you value most in your typing experience, whether it be sound, feel, or typing style. Make sure to consider all factors before making your decision.
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