SP-Star RedBlue vs. Huano Sakura
An in-depth look at the SP-Star RedBlue and the Huano Sakura switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the right mechanical keyboard switch, the SP-Star RedBlue and Huano Sakura both offer unique advantages tailored to different typing preferences. The RedBlue switches are celebrated for their medium-light typing experience, characterized by a low-pitched sound profile that strikes a balance between a muted and polished feel. This makes them ideal for users who enjoy a subtle auditory response while typing, enhancing focus without causing distraction. On the other hand, the Huano Sakura switches stand out for their feather-light touch and medium acoustics, making them particularly appealing for those who engage in extended typing sessions, as they reduce finger fatigue and promote a more comfortable experience. While both switches are classified as linear, providing a smooth keystroke without tactile bumps, their distinct characteristics cater to different needs and preferences. 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
N/A
Actuation force
35g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POK
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the SP-Star RedBlue and the Huano Sakura, it's evident that they utilize different materials, which leads to distinct auditory and tactile experiences. The SP-Star RedBlue features a polycarbonate top housing that contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, enhancing clarity and resonance. This is primarily due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic, which allows sound waves to travel more efficiently. Its translucency also makes it an ideal choice for RGB lighting setups, as it can showcase vibrant colors more effectively. In contrast, the Huano Sakura employs a POK top housing. While the POK material also offers smoothness in feel, thanks to its low coefficient of friction, it emphasizes a clackier sound profile rather than the pristine highs that polycarbonate delivers. Thus, while both materials aim to provide a quality typing experience, their auditory outputs differ significantly.
On the other hand, the bottom housing of these switches further accentuates the distinction in sound profiles. The SP-Star RedBlue utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, akin to its top counterpart, ensuring consistency in the sharpness and clarity of sound in both bottom-out and release stages. This makes the auditory experience more cohesive, as the characteristics of polycarbonate prevail both when keys are pressed and released. In contrast, the Huano Sakura employs a nylon bottom housing, which is known for producing a deeper, fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs sound more efficiently, leading to a rounder auditory experience that melds with the crispness offered by the POK top housing.
Overall, while both the SP-Star RedBlue and Huano Sakura switches are designed to provide pleasant typing experiences, their differing housing materials produce varied results. The harmonious pairing of polycarbonate in both the top and bottom housings of the RedBlue results in an exceptionally clear and resonant sound. Conversely, the Sakura’s combination of POK and nylon showcases a more textured sound experience, blending the smoothness of the POK with the warmth of the nylon. Each switch can be appreciated for its unique characteristics: those who prefer high-pitched clarity may lean toward the RedBlue, while those seeking a rounded and softer typing experience may favor the Sakura.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch to the Huano Sakura linear switch, there are notable differences in both actuation and bottom out forces. The SP-Star RedBlue’s actuation force is unknown, while it has a bottom out force of 57 grams, classifying it as medium-light. In contrast, the Huano Sakura features a light actuation force of 35 grams and a lighter bottom out force of 45 grams. This means that the Sakura switch is more suited for those who prefer a lighter touch and can type comfortably for extended periods, making it ideal for work or long gaming sessions. The RedBlue, being potentially heavier due to its unknown actuation force and medium-light bottom out force, is likely preferred by those looking for a more substantial and possibly more tactile typing experience. Therefore, the Huano Sakura is the lighter switch, while the SP-Star RedBlue is likely to be the heavier option.
Travel distance
The SP-Star RedBlue linear switch features a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Huano Sakura linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. This difference indicates that the RedBlue switch provides a greater depth when pressed, which might appeal to users who enjoy a more substantial tactile experience. In contrast, the Sakura switch's shorter travel distance may be more advantageous for those who prioritize quick responsiveness, particularly in gaming scenarios. Given the trend towards shorter travel distances for enhanced speed, the Sakura could be seen as a modern choice that facilitates faster actuation. Therefore, if you desire a deeper keypress, the RedBlue is the better option with its longer travel distance, while the more responsive switch for rapid actions would be the Sakura, reflecting the growing preference for shorter travel distances among certain users.
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 Huano Sakura comes in at $3.50 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 SP-Star RedBlue switch is characterized by its low-pitched, thocky profile, which provides a soft, bass-heavy tone that can be quite satisfying during use. Its neutral aspect allows it to fit a variety of environments, whether at home or in an office setting, making it versatile for different users. The acoustic qualities of the RedBlue switch can create a deep, rich sound that adds a tactile layer to the typing experience. In contrast, the specifics of the Huano Sakura switches’ sound profile are unknown, though it is suggested that they deliver medium acoustics. Therefore, while the RedBlue offers a more pronounced character in terms of sound, the Sakura is less defined in this area.
In terms of feel, the SP-Star RedBlue switches are noted for their mild and polished characteristics. The mildness offers a gentle and approachable typing experience, making them suitable for both beginners and more experienced typists alike. The polished finish indicates a smooth glide through keystrokes, enhancing overall comfort and reducing friction during long typing sessions. On the other hand, the Huano Sakura switches are described as offering a feather-light touch, which suggests an even more effortless keypress experience. While the detailed tactile feedback of the Sakura switches remains unspecified, it can be surmised that they would provide a unique feel likely different from or less pronounced than the RedBlue.
In summary, while both the SP-Star RedBlue and Huano Sakura linear switches cater to users seeking comfort during typing, their characteristics differ significantly. The RedBlue switch emphasizes a low-pitched, thocky sound profile along with a mild, polished feel that appeals to many users. The Sakura’s feather-light touch promises ease of use, although its sound and tactile qualities are less defined. Ultimately, if you prefer a richer sound, the RedBlue is the way to go, while the Sakura could provide a compelling option for those focused on effortless keystrokes. Choosing between the two will largely depend on whether sound or an ultra-light typing experience takes precedence in your preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the SP-Star RedBlue and the Huano Sakura linear switches, you'll want to consider your typing preferences and usage scenarios. If you enjoy a medium-light typing experience with a focus on a smooth, polished feel and a low-pitched thocky sound, then the SP-Star RedBlue would be an excellent choice for you. This switch caters well to a balanced experience, making it suitable for both work and play without being too loud or aggressive, ideal for office settings or shared environments. However, if you prefer something even lighter and are looking for a switch that excels in longer typing sessions, the Huano Sakura is likely more aligned with your needs. Its feather-light touch provides effortless keystrokes, and while the sound profile is not described in detail, it likely offers a pleasant, medium acoustic that won't fatigue your fingers even after hours of use. Ultimately, your choice may hinge on whether you prioritize a slightly heavier, more tactile experience with a rich sound (RedBlue) or a light and effortless touch for longer typing adventures (Sakura).
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