SP-Star RedBlue vs. Everglide Sakura Pink
An in-depth look at the SP-Star RedBlue and the Everglide Sakura Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the SP-Star RedBlue and the Everglide Sakura Pink, both of which are linear switches. The RedBlue switches are best suited for those who prefer a medium-light typing experience. With a relatively higher-pitched sound profile, they fall under the categories of 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Sakura Pink switches are ideal for delicate typists, offering a feather-light 35g actuation force. These switches provide a smooth and effortless typing experience, with a gliding type feel and frictionless operation. They are categorized as 'Buttery', 'Creamy', 'Easy-to-press', 'Frictionless', and 'Muted'. While these general pointers may give you a sense of what each switch offers, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your preferences and typing style.
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
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The SP-Star RedBlue and the Everglide Sakura Pink both utilize polycarbonate as the material for their top and bottom housings. This material choice results in similar benefits for both switches. The use of polycarbonate creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to its relatively stiff nature. This stiffness also leads to a more clear and resonant sound profile, enhancing the overall auditory experience of typing or gaming. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the integration of RGB lighting, making it ideal for users looking to add a vibrant visual element to their keyboards.
However, it's worth noting that if the top and bottom housings differ for a given switch, the qualities of the chosen housing material will be split between the two parts. When pressing down on either the RedBlue or the Sakura Pink, the bottom housing will have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing will play a more prominent role in determining the sound when releasing a key. This distinction in the contribution of each housing material to the overall typing experience can add a subtle differentiation between the two switches.
In conclusion, both the SP-Star RedBlue and the Everglide Sakura Pink benefit from the use of polycarbonate in their top and bottom housings. This choice allows for a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile while maintaining a clear and resonant audio experience. The translucency of polycarbonate is particularly advantageous for users who wish to incorporate RGB lighting into their keyboards. However, if the top and bottom housings differ, the qualities of the chosen material will be split between the two parts, resulting in a slight variation in typing or gaming experience. Overall, both switches offer similar results in terms of housing materials, guaranteeing a satisfying auditory and visual experience for keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch and the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch, there are notable differences. The RedBlue has an actuation force of unavailable grams, making it difficult to directly compare to the Sakura Pink's actuation force of 35 grams, which is considerably lighter. However, in terms of bottom out force, the RedBlue requires 57 grams, which is medium-light, while the Sakura Pink requires 45 grams, making it even lighter.
Considering weight, some users may prefer a lighter switch as it allows for longer typing sessions, which is beneficial for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, there are those who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. For them, selecting switches with heavier forces would be more suitable.
In this case, the Sakura Pink would be the lighter option, providing a delicate and effortless typing experience with its low actuation and bottom out force. On the other hand, the RedBlue switch, with its higher bottom out force, offers a slightly more substantial and tactile typing experience. While the exact actuation force of the RedBlue is unknown, it is safe to assume that it falls within a medium range, providing a solid balance between lightness and push feel.
Overall, users seeking a lighter typing experience would be more inclined towards the Sakura Pink switch, whereas those desiring a slightly heavier and more substantial feel may find the RedBlue more suitable.
Travel distance
Both the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch and the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance of travel. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, you can expect similar results from both switches.
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 Sakura Pink has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sakura Pink 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 switches have a relatively higher-pitched profile. This means that they produce a sound that is more bass-heavy and mellow compared to higher-pitched switches. Additionally, RedBlue switches are described as having a thocky sound, which is a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when the key is pressed and released. On the other hand, the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switches have a muted sound profile. They produce a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards.
In terms of feel, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switches provide a mild and polished typing experience. They offer a more gentle typing experience with a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. This makes typing with RedBlue switches approachable and comfortable for most users. On the other hand, the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switches offer a buttery and creamy typing experience. They provide a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, akin to gliding your fingers across the keys. With an easy-to-press and frictionless feel, Sakura Pink switches require minimal force to activate and offer a responsive and low-impact typing experience.
Taking all of the available information into account, the SP-Star RedBlue and Everglide Sakura Pink linear switches offer different subjective qualities. The RedBlue switches provide a higher-pitched, thocky sound and a mild, polished feel. They are ideal for individuals who prefer a medium-light typing experience. On the other hand, the Sakura Pink switches produce a muted, delightfully poppy sound reminiscent of bubble wrap being popped. They offer a buttery, creamy feel that is smooth, effortless, and requires minimal force to activate. Both switches provide a smooth and effortless typing experience, albeit with distinct sound and feel profiles. Choosing between the two ultimately depends on an individual's personal preference for sound and typing experience. However, if one desires similar results to the RedBlue switches, the Sakura Pink switches may provide a comparable experience with their smooth and effortless feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a medium-light typing experience and enjoy a higher-pitched sound profile, the SP-Star RedBlue linear switch is one to consider. These switches offer a relatively low-pitched and thocky sound, providing a deep and satisfying experience. In terms of feel, the RedBlue switches offer a mild and polished typing experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, if you are a delicate typist who prefers a feather-light typing experience, the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch is the way to go. With a bottom out force of just 45 grams, these switches are perfect for those seeking an easy-to-press and frictionless typing experience. The Sakura Pink switches produce a delightfully poppy sound, reminiscent of bubble wrap being popped, adding a playful touch to your typing sessions. Overall, both switches have their unique characteristics, making them suitable for different preferences and typing styles. Ultimately, the decision between the SP-Star RedBlue and the Everglide Sakura Pink should be based on your personal preferences and desired typing experience.
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