WHAT IS SPEEDSOFT?

Speedsoft is a super fast-paced style of airsoft that is played with speed and aggression. The game is all about speed, so players need to be quick on their feet and have fast reflexes.

Speedsoft is played with two opposing teams, and the objective of the game is to eliminate all of the players on the other team as quickly as possible.

The games are usually played indoors and in close quarters so the games typically last only for about 4 to 5 minutes.

Speedsoft was developed and popularized in 2016 by SpeedQB and today there are two different styles of it:

1. SupAir Speedsoft – An indoor play style using inflatable obstacles for barricades and cover.
2. SpeedQB – This fast-paced airsoft style can be played both indoors or outdoors and it uses terrain and wooden barricades for cover.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN AIRSOFT AND SPEEDSOFT?

Compared to traditional airsoft play, speedsoft is a style of airsoft play that emphasizes speed and movement over realism and tactics. Speedsoft is treated more like a team sport similar to paintball or speedball, rather than a military simulation or recreation.

In a speedsoft match, players will often run and jump around the battlefield, using close-quarters weapons such as pistols and submachine guns. Games are typically fast-paced and relatively short, lasting around 4 to 15 minutes and sometimes even less.

In contrast, airsoft is a tactical game that focuses on realism and teamwork. Players will typically move slowly and deliberately around the battlefield, using long-range weapons such as sniper rifles. Games can last for several hours, and players must work together to accomplish objectives such as capturing enemy territory or eliminating the other team.

While speedsoft is more fast-paced and action-packed, airsoft requires more strategy and teamwork.

SPEEDSOFT VS MILSIM

Speedsoft players often use light, compact guns and wear minimal gear in order to move quickly and easily while Milsim players typically use heavier guns and wear more realistic tactical gear in order to create a more authentic experience.

Speedsoft has an extremely quick pace of play with the average game lasting 5 minutes or less, so players must be quick on their feet and are usually running frquently. Airsoft, and more specifically Milsim, are long large-format games. Most typical airsoft matches last 15-30 minutes. Some airsoift events are designed for non-stop missions and gameplay for multiple days, which includes camping, eating, and sleeping duing the game. 

HOW TO PLAY SPEEDSOFT?

Speedsoft and traditional airsoft matches do share similar objectives. Most often, there are two opposing teams with a goal to eliminate the other. Other formats like capture the flag exist and add an exiting challenge to the match.

Speedsoft can also be played tournament style where different teams compete against each other in a bracketed system until there is only one team left standing.

HOW IS SPEEDQB PLAYED?

SpeedQB is usually played as a tournament, where 5 player teams are put up against each other in a bracket system. The teams will face each other in a 3-round, 4-round, or 5-round tournament. The team that wins the most rounds in the tournament wins!

The gameplay is point based and each team competes for 100 points per round. 

Guns & Gear Options for Speedsoft

Speedsoft loadouts are built for agility and speed, with lightweight gear that minimizes bulk and maximizes movement. Unlike traditional airsoft players, speedsoft players focus on performance-driven apparel and protection, often choosing vibrant, tean-oriented, or personalized gear to stand out on the field.

What Are the Best Speedsoft Guns?

Speedsoft players choose their weapons based on speed, accuracy, and a high rate of fire to dominate fast-paced, close-quarters environments. The focus is on lightweight, maneuverable guns that can be easily customized for rapid engagement.

Primary Weapons

• Automatic Electric Guns (AEGs) are the most popular choice for Speedsoft due to their reliability and high rate of fire.
• Speedsoft players prioritize short-barrel rifles or submachine gun-style platforms for increased mobility in tight spaces.
• High-Rate of Fire: Fast trigger response and full-auto capability are key for suppressive fire and overwhelming opponents in quick bursts.

HPA (High-Pressure Air) Systems

• HPA systems are favored by more advanced Speedsoft players. These air-powered systems provide consistent performance and faster trigger response than traditional AEGs.
• HPA setups allow players to adjust fire rate and velocity for different field requirements, giving them a competitive edge.

Secondary Weapons

• Speedsoft players often carry lightweight gas-powered pistols for quick transitions during close-quarters combat.
• Pistols are typically kept in drop-leg or hip holsters for fast access when primary weapons are out of ammunition or impractical to use.

Magazine Preferences

• High-Capacity Magazines: Speedsoft players rely on high-capacity mags (Hi-Cap) or drum magazines to reduce the need for frequent reloads, keeping them in the action longer.
• Speed is essential, so players often carry multiple magazines in minimalist chest rigs or belt setups for quick reloads.

Speedsoft Gear & Wearable Accessories

Protective Gear

• Masks & Eye Protection: Safety is critical in Speedsoft. Players prefer low-profile, full-face masks or mesh masks combined with high-quality, ANSI-rated goggles for maximum protection and visibility.
• Gloves: Lightweight, flexible gloves provide hand protection while maintaining grip and dexterity.
• Knee Pads: Speedsoft involves a lot of fast, dynamic movement, including slides and quick take-cover maneuvers. Slim knee pads are essential for protecting against impacts without restricting movement.

Clothing & Footwear

• Athletic Apparel: Speedsoft players favor moisture-wicking shirts, compression pants, and lightweight joggers or shorts for maximum flexibility and comfort. These fabrics help regulate body temperature during intense gameplay.
• Sneakers or Trail Running Shoes: Instead of heavy tactical boots, players wear running shoes or trail runners for superior speed, traction, and agility. Popular choices include Nike Trail Runners, Adidas Terrex, and Salomon Speedcross.

Chest Rigs & Minimalist Carriers

• Low-Profile Chest Rigs: Speedsoft players typically use compact, lightweight rigs like the Haley Strategic D3CR or Condor Recon Chest Rig for carrying extra magazines and small essentials.
• Waist Packs & Battle Belts: Some players prefer waist packs or battle belts over chest rigs to reduce upper body bulk and improve range of motion.

SPEEDSOFT LOADOUT OVERVIEW

• Fast-shooting compact airsoft gun
• Full face mask
• Small chest rig
• 2 extra mags on the chest rig setup
• Flashlight/ laser (for disorienting competitors)
• Gloves
• Battle belt
• Extra mag on the belt
• Maybe a small admin pouch
• High-cap sidearm

WHERE TO PLAY SPEEDSOFT?

Now that you know what speedsoft is and what you need to play, you’re probably wondering where you can play it.

Unfortunately, speedsoft isn’t as popular as other airsoft playstyles so there aren’t many dedicated airsoft fields.

But that doesn’t mean you can’t find a place to play speedsoft! Many regular airsoft fields are starting to hold speedsoft events. And there are many online communities where you can find games being held. 

So if you’re looking to get into speedsoft, just do a little bit of research and you should be able to find a game near you!

Is Speedsoft A Sport?

Yes, speedsoft is considered a sport by many people. The games are played competitively and there are even tournaments that you can compete in! And well it has even been featured on ESPN!

IN CONCLUSION

Speedsoft is a fast-paced and intense form of airsoft that is played with smaller guns and less gear. If you’re looking for a new challenge, it might be the perfect game style for you!