SP-Star RedBlue vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the SP-Star RedBlue and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the SP-Star RedBlue and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° mechanical keyboard switches, you'll find that both options offer unique features to enhance your typing experience. The RedBlue is a linear switch that provides a medium-light typing feel and a low-pitched sound profile, making it ideal for those who prefer a softer touch. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° is also a linear switch but is specifically designed for silent typing, thanks to its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure. While both switches have their own strengths, such as smoothness and stability, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
The SP-Star RedBlue and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° both feature polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which allows for a more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through the housing. However, the two switches differ in their bottom housing material. The RedBlue uses polycarbonate for its bottom housing as well, while the Zero Degree 0° utilizes nylon. Nylon is a softer plastic that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the stiffer polycarbonate. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housing.
In terms of the overall sound and feel of the switches, the bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. The impact of the bottom housing material is felt when the key is fully pressed, resulting in a sound and feel that is influenced by the properties of the material used. Conversely, the top housing material has a greater impact on the sound that is produced when a key is released. Therefore, although both the RedBlue and Zero Degree 0° feature polycarbonate top housing, the difference in their bottom housing material will affect the overall typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
In conclusion, while both switches share the benefits of polycarbonate top housing in terms of creating a sharp and clear sound profile, the difference in their bottom housing materials leads to variations in the sound and feel when typing on the switches. The RedBlue's polycarbonate bottom housing produces a sound that is influenced by the stiffness of the material, while the Zero Degree 0°'s nylon bottom housing results in a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer properties. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the desired typing experience, with users having to consider whether they prefer a crisper sound profile or a deeper, fuller sound when selecting between the two.
Weight
The SP-Star RedBlue linear switch has a bottom out force of 57 grams, making it a medium-light switch. In contrast, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch has an actuation force of 45 grams. The actuation force of the RedBlue is not specified, while the bottom out force of the Zero Degree 0° is unknown. In terms of weight, the RedBlue is heavier due to its bottom out force, while the Zero Degree 0° is lighter because of its actuation force. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the Zero Degree 0°, which allows for longer typing sessions, whereas individuals who enjoy a more substantial push may opt for the RedBlue. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, the RedBlue has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Zero Degree 0° has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that the RedBlue has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Zero Degree 0°. The difference may not be significant, but for those who prefer a deeper key press, the RedBlue might be the better option. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° offers a slightly shallower travel distance, which may appeal to those looking for a quicker response time. Ultimately, both switches offer similar results but cater to slightly different preferences in terms of travel distance.
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 Gateron Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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
In terms of sound, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch offers a low-pitched sound profile that is mellow and bass-heavy, providing a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch focuses on delivering a silent typing experience with its self-padding design and dual-rail structure, absorbing sound and reducing noise for a quiet operation. Both switches aim to provide a pleasant typing experience, but the RedBlue leans towards a deeper and richer sound, while the Zero Degree 0° prioritizes silence.
Moving on to the feel, the SP-Star RedBlue switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, with a gentle feel and smooth key travel for a refined and approachable typing experience. The Gateron Zero Degree 0° switch, with its innovative design, aims to provide unparalleled smoothness and stability to the user, creating a soft and elastic feel that absorbs sound and reduces noise. While both switches prioritize comfort and smoothness, the RedBlue may offer a slightly more refined feel due to its polished characteristics.
In conclusion, both the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch aim to provide users with a satisfying and comfortable typing experience, with nuances in sound and feel to cater to different preferences. The RedBlue offers a low-pitched sound and a mild, polished feel, while the Zero Degree 0° focuses on silent operation and unparalleled smoothness. Depending on whether the user prioritizes sound quality or silence, as well as the desired level of smoothness in typing, either switch can provide a great mechanical keyboard experience. Remember that the overall sound and feel may also be influenced by factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps used.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch or the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it's important to think about your preferences and needs. If you prefer a medium-light typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile and a mild, polished feel, then the RedBlue switch might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you value unparalleled smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel for silent typing, then the Zero Degree 0° switch could be the better option. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what matters most to you when making your decision.
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