SP-Star RedBlue vs. TTC Silent Bluish White (V2)
An in-depth look at the SP-Star RedBlue and the TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
The SP-Star RedBlue and TTC Silent Bluish White are two mechanical keyboard switches that cater to different preferences and environments. The RedBlue switches are linear switches that provide a medium-light typing experience. With a relatively higher-pitched sound profile, these switches are best suited for those who prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Bluish White switches offer a medium tactile feel, providing a satisfying level of resistance when pressed. Despite their tactile nature, these switches are designed to be as quiet as possible, making them ideal for office or shared living space use. While these general pointers can help determine which switch may be more suitable for your needs, it's important to delve deeper into the specifics to make the best decision. Let's explore further to help you choose the perfect switch for your unique requirements.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
42g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The SP-Star RedBlue and TTC Silent Bluish White both have polycarbonate top housings, which means they share similar qualities. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because the material is relatively stiffer compared to other plastics, allowing for a clearer and more resonant sound. The use of polycarbonate also enables the switch to have a translucent appearance, making it ideal for those who plan to use RGB lighting. Therefore, both switches will offer similar results in terms of sound profile and aesthetics when it comes to their top housings.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, the SP-Star RedBlue differs from the TTC Silent Bluish White. The RedBlue utilizes polycarbonate for its bottom housing, which means it will also contribute to the overall sound experience. As polycarbonate is stiffer, it will have an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. In contrast, the Silent Bluish White features a nylon bottom housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. This means that the Silent Bluish White will have a duller and rounder sound when bottoming out compared to the RedBlue.
In summary, while both switches have polycarbonate top housings with similar characteristics, they differ in terms of their bottom housings. The SP-Star RedBlue, with its polycarbonate bottom housing, will offer a sharper and crisper bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Bluish White, with its nylon bottom housing, will provide a deeper and fuller sound experience when bottoming out.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The RedBlue switch has an actuation force that is unavailable in grams, making it difficult to directly compare to the Silent Bluish White switch. However, the bottom out force of the RedBlue switch is 57 grams, which can be considered medium-light. In contrast, the Silent Bluish White switch has an actuation force of 42 grams, making it lighter than the RedBlue switch. Additionally, the Silent Bluish White switch has a bottom out force of 50 grams, which is also lighter than the RedBlue switch.
Considering weight as a factor, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Silent Bluish White switch. The lower actuation force and bottom out force allow for smoother and quicker keystrokes, making it suitable for extended typing sessions or intense gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may prefer the RedBlue switch. Although the actuation force of the RedBlue switch is unknown, the higher bottom out force suggests a stronger push feel, which can provide a satisfying tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The SP-Star RedBlue linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a traditional distance. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. This makes the Silent Bluish White switch the shorter option between the two. The choice between these switches ultimately depends on personal preference. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Silent Bluish White switch as it allows for faster response times. However, for those who prefer a more substantial and deeper feel when pressing down on a key, the longer travel distance of 4 mm provided by the SP-Star RedBlue switch might be more suitable. Both switches will provide similar results in terms of registering keystrokes, but the difference in travel distance will give a different tactile experience.
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 TTC Silent Bluish White (V2) has an MSRP of $6.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Bluish White (V2) for $4.63.
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 linear switch provides a relatively higher-pitched tone. This gives it a more mellow and bass-heavy sound compared to higher-pitched switches. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch is known for its muted sound profile. It produces a softer and quieter sound, minimizing the typical noise associated with mechanical keyboards. Both switches offer different sound experiences, with the RedBlue having a low-pitched and thocky sound, while the Silent Bluish White provides a more subdued and peaceful typing experience that is ideal for office or shared living spaces.
In terms of feel, the RedBlue linear switch offers a mild and polished typing experience. It has a gentle typing feel and a safe middle-ground zone in terms of overall characteristics. The switch is designed to be approachable to most users, providing a comfortable and smooth typing sensation. The Silent Bluish White tactile switch, on the other hand, offers a buttery and mild typing experience. The keystrokes are smooth and fluid, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. It also has a stepped feel, meaning there is some pre-travel and/or post-travel, adding a subtle tactile response. Additionally, both switches have a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch and the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch offer distinct characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The RedBlue has a low-pitched and thocky sound with a mild and polished feel, providing a medium-light typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Bluish White has a more muted sound profile, perfect for quiet environments, and a buttery and mild feel, offering a smooth and uniform typing experience. Both switches are designed to be comfortable and approachable, allowing users to enjoy their typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a medium-light typing experience and a higher-pitched sound profile, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch is the choice for you. These switches offer a moderate actuation force requirement and have a relatively low-pitched and thocky sound. They also provide a mild and polished typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you value a precise and comfortable typing experience with a light bottom out force, the TTC Silent Bluish White tactile switch is the ideal option. These switches offer a medium tactile feel and are designed to be as quiet as possible. With a muted sound profile, they are perfect for office or shared living space use. The Silent Bluish White switches also provide a buttery, mild, and polished typing feel with subtle resistance, making typing effortless and uniform.
Ultimately, the decision between the SP-Star RedBlue and TTC Silent Bluish White switches comes down to your personal preferences. Consider whether you prioritize a medium-light typing experience with a higher-pitched sound (RedBlue), or a precise and comfortable typing experience with a light bottom out force and muted sound (Silent Bluish White). By understanding the sound and feel characteristics of each switch, you can make an informed decision that best suits your typing style and environment.
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