Can someone explain the difference between these two springs to me as far as spring rate differences and that sort of thing. I really only understand how many inches something is dropped and not really how the other characteristics of the spring affect things with the ride quality and lowering.

Decided on these springs because I want a mild drop and they are the two most mild drops for our cars.

Does tein have a spring characteristic or company policy that makes it so that their springs are drastically different than RSR stuff even if both springs offer a very similar drop?

 

RSR half down spring rates: 4.60Kg (F), 8.67Kg (R)
Tein Htech spring rates: 5.7kg (F), 8,0kg (R)

With these very minor differences in spring rates, you will not notice much difference in ride stiffness. The RSR's are softer in the front, but stiffer in the rear, again, not by much though. Having that said, one could still "feel" like a nicer ride than the other, since they are manufactured by different companies. I do not personally have first hand experience with H Techs, but my RSR half downs feel really good around turns and handling uneven surfaces.

Best thing you can do is take a spin in separate cars equipped with either spring and make a decision for yourself.

 

RSR because everyone is on the RSR bandwagon.