Evike.com Blog & Articles

In a nutshell, Airsoft is a hobby that revolves around the use and collection of replica firearms that shoot 6mm plastic balls. The ways that each individual enjoys the hobby varies greatly. Some visit their local field once a week to engage in high adrenaline simulated combat, and others simply collect just to marvel at the level of realism these replicas have achieved. As one delves deeper into the airsoft community, you’ll quickly hear mention of the hobby’s two primary cliques, Speedsoft and Milsim. It’s easy to derive an assumption of what these playstyles imply given their namesake, but a newer player might have curiosities about the pros and cons of each playstyle. In this article, we’ll delve into the essence of Speedsoft specifically, exploring why its fast-paced competitive appeal draws in so many enthusiasts. We’ll dive into the culture and gear associated with Speedsoft to explore why so many players value competition over realism. Let’s hop right in!

The Philosophy of Speedsoft

At its core, Speedsoft is about fast-paced, aggressive gameplay. Many players concede that realism is often a detriment to effectiveness on the airsoft field, and thus design their kit for low-drag and comfort. In a game where the goal is to shoot the enemy with a BB, maneuverability is key. Though stealthier playstyles can have their advantages, nothing gets the bloodstream pumping faster than charging headfirst into the field as fast as your legs can carry you to aggressively secure quick eliminations. Speedsoft is most popular at indoor fields where the engagement distances are close. Engagements are won through fast reflexes and outflanking your opponent before they get a chance to think about their next move. This playstyle best appeals to those seeking an adrenaline rich experience full of swift matches and instantaneous decision-making. Were you drawn to colorful weapon skins and ranked competitive matches in the video game world? Speedsoft might be just right for you!

Gear and Equipment for Speedsoft

Speedsoft is efficient. As a result, much of the equipment used is minimalist to reduce weight and discomfort. Here are some examples:

Lightweight Loadouts
Minimalist vest and light chest rigs are streamlined for quick access to magazines and essentials without the bulk. Belt setups are also fairly popular for their lack of torso encumbrance.


HK Army has an impressive selection of Speedsoft friendly gear

Full Face Masks
Within these close quarters engagements, full face masks have evolved from a protective necessity to an aspect of fashion. Full-face masks with anti-fog lenses are preferred for maximum protection and clear vision during rapid movement. With so many colors on the market, there’s a quality mask perfect for your unique kit.


The Dye i4 is the most iconic mask in the speedsoft community. Its fog resistance, field of view, and impressive comfort have made it a must have for those looking to play swiftly with ease.

High-Speed Airsoft Guns: In the fast paced game of CQB indoor fields, trigger response is key. The more BBs a rifle can put down range in semi-auto, the more likely you are to hit your target. High speed AEGs and HPA platforms have become popular as a result. The SSG-1 from G&G is a solid example of an AEG designed with Speedsoft in mind.


The SSG-1’s lightning quick trigger response, lightweight design, and facemask friendly stock make it the perfect rifle for those looking to maximize their field effectiveness.

The Speedsoft Playstyle

The playstyle of Speedsoft is markedly different from the more military-associated side of airsoft in several ways:

Speed > Stealth
In the real steel world, military operations can put lives on the line. Thus, engagements are carefully coordinated and stealthily executed in the interest of keeping soldiers safe as possible. In airsoft, the only consequence of being eliminated is a walk back to your respawn. Speedsofters tend to prioritize overwhelming speed over a calculated assault in the interest of a more physically engaging time. They might be eliminated quickly, but the surprise factor might take down a number of your teammates before so.

Close-Quarters Combat/Battle (CQC/CQB)
Speedsoft thrives in close quarter indoor arenas with plenty of tight hallways and obstacles. Tight corridors reward quick movement and make engagements more about reaction speed than long-range precision.

Game Modes
Most Speedsoft-encouraging game modes are quick. Single-life elimination is often the most popular format for this style of gameplay, as it’s straight to the point and throws out the annoyance of having to avoid a “respawn” area. Milsim oriented airsoft games are typically objective based, while Speedsoft is moreso about who can rack up the most eliminations.




Though I would hesitate to call airsoft a “sport,” Speedsoft is the style of gameplay most reflective of one. Its community and associated fields offer an alternative to players seeking a more intense and competitive form of the hobby. With specialized gear designed for speed and agility and colorful kits that show off character, it’s easy to see why Speedsoft has an appeal for so many. Whether participants are drawn to the tactical depth of milsim or the high-speed action of Speedsoft, the hobby's diverse playstyles ensure that there's something for every enthusiast. Always keep in mind that there’s nothing wrong with enjoying a bit of both! There’s things to like and dislike about each gameplay style, and by celebrating the best parts of both worlds our hobby’s community can better come together to bask in the simple joy of flinging 6mm plastic BBs down range. Don your Dye mask, put on that neon shirt, and dominate the field, Speedsofter!