SP-Star RedBlue vs. Akko Rosewood

Overview

When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the SP-Star RedBlue and the Akko Rosewood offer two distinct yet appealing options for enthusiasts seeking a linear typing experience. The RedBlue switches are celebrated for their medium-light feel, which caters to typists who enjoy a delicate yet responsive touch. Their sound profile is relatively low-pitched and characterized as thocky and polished, promoting a smooth and satisfying typing rhythm. In contrast, the Rosewood switches stand out with their deep and satisfying thocky sound, enhanced by a factory-applied layer of lubricant that ensures a buttery-smooth keystroke right out of the box. While both switches are linear and offer a quiet typing experience, the RedBlue may be ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch, whereas the Rosewood appeals to users who value a deeper auditory feedback. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

SP-Star RedBlue Linear

Akko Rosewood Linear

$5.80

$5.40 per 10

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The SP-Star RedBlue and the Akko Rosewood switches present contrasting sound profiles due to the materials used in their construction, particularly in their top and bottom housings. The RedBlue employs polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, which contributes to its characteristic sharp, higher-pitched sound profile. Polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, facilitates a clear and resonant sound, making it an ideal choice for those who prioritize a crisp auditory experience when typing. Its translucency also enhances RGB lighting effects, making it visually appealing for users who enjoy illuminated keyboards.

In contrast, the Akko Rosewood features nylon for both the top and bottom housings. As a softer material, nylon inherently absorbs more sound, producing a deeper and fuller auditory experience. This softer construction leads to a rounder sound profile, catering to users who prefer a more muted and less harsh response when typing. The use of nylon not only contributes to sound dynamics but also affects overall feedback, giving a different tactile feel compared to the RedBlue switches. Thus, while both switch types may look similar in structure, the construction materials distinctly influence their sound profiles and the feel of each keystroke.

Despite these differences in material, the resulting typing experiences from both switches can yield unique yet satisfying results based on individual preference. For users who value brightness and sharpness, the RedBlue’s polycarbonate nature will likely enhance their typing enjoyment. Conversely, for those who desire a mellow and rounded feedback, the Akko Rosewood’s nylon composition will deliver a more reassuring touch. Even though the properties of the top and bottom housings differ, the combination of each material's characteristics—from the clarity of polycarbonate to the rich absorption of nylon—enables a rich variety of auditory and tactile responses in mechanical keyboards.

Weight

When comparing the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch to the Akko Rosewood linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The RedBlue switch has an unspecified actuation force, which leaves its typing responsiveness unclear, but it does have a bottom out force of 57 grams, classifying it as medium-light. In contrast, the Rosewood switch features a clear actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, marking it as light. This means that for users who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Rosewood switch will be more suitable, as it requires less force to engage a keystroke. Conversely, those who enjoy a heftier feel may be inclined towards the RedBlue switch due to its higher bottom out force, despite the lack of clarity around its actuation force. Overall, individuals looking for longer typing sessions may find the Rosewood's lighter weight more comfortable, while those seeking a more substantial sensation might appreciate the heavier characteristics of the RedBlue switch.

Travel distance

Both the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch have an identical travel distance of 4 mm, meaning that users can expect the same feel and responsiveness when pressing down on the keys of both switches. This similarity in travel distance leads to comparable performance in typing and gaming scenarios, as the distance each switch travels from the top to the bottom is the same. Consequently, those who prefer one switch over the other may need to consider factors outside of travel distance, such as tactile feedback, actuation force, or personal preference regarding the switch's overall feel.

Price comparison

Typing experience

When it comes to sound, the SP-Star RedBlue switch boasts a relatively low-pitched profile that leans towards a more bass-heavy and mellow tone, making it less intrusive in both work and personal environments. This neutral sound can satisfy a wide range of users, whether they are beginners or seasoned typists, resulting in a versatile choice for various settings. In contrast, the Akko Rosewood switch is characterized by its deep, satisfying thocky sound, enhanced by a thin layer of factory-applied lubricant. This addition not only enriches the auditory experience but also emphasizes a rich, deep tone often described as a "thud" or "soft knock" when a key is engaged, rendering it particularly appealing for those who appreciate a more tactile and resonant auditory feedback.

In terms of feel, the RedBlue switch presents a mild typing experience that appeals to those seeking a gentle touch. This mild nature, coupled with a polished finish, ensures a smooth and refined interaction with each key press, minimizing friction for a comfortable typing experience. Users will find that the tactile and auditory sensations of the RedBlue switch strike a harmonious balance, making it approachable for a wide variety of typists. On the other hand, the feel of the Rosewood switch remains unspecified in the provided information, leaving an element of uncertainty for potential users who prioritize tactile feedback.

In summary, while both switches offer unique auditory experiences—the RedBlue with its low-pitched and neutral sound and the Rosewood with its thocky depth—they cater to different acoustic preferences. The RedBlue switch is tailored for those who enjoy a mild and polished typing feel, while details about the Rosewood's tactile characteristics are currently unknown. For those navigating their choice, if the sound quality and typing feel align closely with their preferences, both switches promise to deliver satisfying results.

Conclusion

To sum up, when deciding between the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch and the Akko Rosewood linear switch, you should consider what kind of typing experience you prefer. If you are someone who enjoys a medium-light feel with a low-pitched and neutral sound profile that suits a variety of scenarios—whether it’s casual typing, gaming, or office work—then the SP-Star RedBlue would be a great choice. Its mild and polished characteristics ensure smooth key presses without being obtrusive. On the other hand, if you are looking for a lighter typing experience paired with a deep, thocky sound that adds a satisfying auditory element to your typing, the Akko Rosewood switch would be more suitable for you. With its 50 grams bottom out force, the Rosewood provides a gentle touch, making it ideal for long typing sessions where comfort is a priority. Ultimately, your choice will boil down to the balance of sound and feel that you value most in your mechanical keyboard experience.

Mentioned in this article

SP-Star RedBlue Linear

$5.80

$5.40 per 10

Learn more

Akko Rosewood Linear

$3.89

$3.11 per 10

Learn more