SP-Star RedBlue vs. Everglide Tourmaline Blue
An in-depth look at the SP-Star RedBlue and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing two mechanical keyboard switches: the SP-Star RedBlue and Everglide Tourmaline Blue. Each switch offers unique features and benefits to cater to different typing preferences.
The RedBlue linear switch stands out for its medium-light typing experience, making it ideal for those who prefer a gentle keystroke feel. With a relatively higher-pitched sound profile and a low-pitched, neutral, mild, thocky, and polished categorization, the RedBlue switch delivers a satisfying and polished typing experience.
On the other hand, the Tourmaline Blue switch boasts a deep and thocky sound profile, immersing users in a thoroughly satisfying typing sensation. Its lengthened single-stage spring creates a bouncy feel with each keystroke, offering a delightful and accessible experience to a wide range of users. Categorized as buttery, easy-to-press, mild, and neutral, the Tourmaline Blue switch strikes a balance in spring weight, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience.
However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your typing needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
59g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star RedBlue and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue, which are both made of polycarbonate, have several similarities and differences. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top and bottom housings, resulting in a similarly sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiff plastic that produces a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, both switches feature a translucent housing, making them ideal for use with RGB lighting. Thus, if you are looking for switches with these particular qualities, both the SP-Star RedBlue and Everglide Tourmaline Blue can deliver similar results.
However, it is important to note that the housing materials of the top and bottom housings differ for each switch. In the SP-Star RedBlue, the polycarbonate is used in both the top and bottom housing, meaning that the qualities of the material are spread across the entire switch. Pressing down on the switch will result in feeling the impact and qualities of the bottom housing, contributing to the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, releasing a key will showcase the impact of the top housing, affecting the sound produced when the key is let go.
On the other hand, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue also features a polycarbonate top and bottom housing, but the specific characteristics and effects of each housing are not explicitly stated. Without detailed information, it can be assumed that the Tourmaline Blue utilizes polycarbonate in a similar manner as the RedBlue. Therefore, it is likely that the Tourmaline Blue will also have a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to the polycarbonate material used in both its top and bottom housings.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch, it is evident that they have some differences in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The actuation force of the RedBlue switch is unavailable in grams, while the Tourmaline Blue switch has an actuation force of 59 grams. This indicates that the Tourmaline Blue switch requires a slightly higher amount of force to trigger a keystroke compared to the RedBlue switch. Moving on to the bottom out force, the RedBlue switch has a bottom out force of 57 grams, which can be considered medium-light. On the other hand, the Tourmaline Blue switch has a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it slightly heavier in comparison, falling under the category of medium-heavy.
Considering the weight aspect, those who prefer a lighter typing experience would find the RedBlue switch more suitable, as it allows for extended typing periods, making it ideal for work or long gaming sessions. Conversely, individuals who enjoy a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience might lean towards the Tourmaline Blue switch with its heavier forces.
While the exact actuation force of the RedBlue switch is unavailable, it is worth noting that both switches fall within the range of medium actuation forces. Therefore, one can expect similar results in terms of triggering keystrokes for both switches, although the Tourmaline Blue switch would require a slightly higher amount of force.
In conclusion, the RedBlue linear switch and the Tourmaline Blue linear switch offer distinct differences in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The RedBlue switch is lighter, with an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 57 grams, while the Tourmaline Blue switch is slightly heavier, with an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams. Ultimately, individual preference and the desired typing experience will play a significant role in determining which switch is the better fit.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key, you will experience a similar level of travel distance with either switch. Thus, whether you choose the SP-Star RedBlue or the Everglide Tourmaline Blue, you can expect to have a consistent and comfortable experience with key pressing.
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 Everglide Tourmaline Blue has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Tourmaline Blue for $3.89.
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 is known for its relatively higher-pitched profile. These switches produce a more mellow and bass-heavy tone, offering a satisfying sound when pressed and released. On the other hand, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch provides a deep and thocky sound profile. With each keystroke, you'll experience a deep "thud" or a soft "knock" sound. Both switches have a neutral sound profile, meaning they have a moderate sound level suitable for various purposes. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch offers a mild and polished typing experience. These switches have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. The typing sensation is gentle and approachable for most users. On the other hand, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch provides a buttery and easy-to-press feel. The keystrokes are smooth, fluid, and effortless, enhancing the overall typing experience. These switches have a light actuation force, making typing comfortable and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Similar to their sound profile, both switches fall into the mild category in terms of feel, offering a safe and middle-ground experience.
In summary, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch have distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The RedBlue switch provides a higher-pitched sound profile and a mild, polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Tourmaline Blue switch offers a deep and thocky sound profile, along with a buttery and easy-to-press feel. Both switches have a neutral sound profile and fall into the mild category in terms of feel, making them suitable for a wide range of users. Depending on personal preference, either switch can provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, if you prefer a medium-light typing experience with a higher-pitched sound profile, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. These switches offer a relatively low-pitched and neutral sound, making them suitable for various environments and purposes. Additionally, they provide a mild and polished feel, ensuring a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you are looking for a deep and thocky sound profile that immerses you in a satisfying typing experience, the Everglide Tourmaline Blue linear switch is the perfect option. With their lengthened single-stage spring, they offer a bouncy feel with each keystroke. These switches strike a balance with their standard spring weight, making them accessible to a wide range of users. The Tourmaline Blues provide a neutral sound and a mild, buttery, and easy-to-press feel.
Ultimately, the choice between the SP-Star RedBlue and the Everglide Tourmaline Blue switches depends on your personal preferences. Consider factors such as typing experience, sound profile, and feel to determine which switch aligns with your needs and preferences.
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