Kailh Box White vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Kailh Box White and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Kailh Box White and the SP-Star Duck. The Box White switch is renowned for its clicky feedback, offering maximum audio feedback to those who enjoy a satisfying crunch while typing. With its resonant, high-pitched, and crunchy feel, it provides an accented tactility that mimics the sensation of stepping on autumn leaves. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck switch provides a more subtle tactile typing experience. Its gentle tactility offers a clean and crispy sound profile that appeals to those looking for a more subdued typing experience. Categorized as neutral, mild, buttery, and polished, the Duck switch provides a satisfying, less pronounced feedback. Both switches have their distinct qualities, making them suitable for different preferences. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Kailh Box spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Kailh Box White and the SP-Star Duck both feature polycarbonate top housings, which results in a sharp, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of this relatively stiffer plastic enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced by the switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting, as it allows the lighting effects to shine through. Therefore, in terms of the top housing material, both switches offer similar benefits and will likely yield comparable results.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing material, the Box White utilizes a nylon material while the Duck employs a polycarbonate material. The nylon in the Box White contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as it is a relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches that use nylon bottom housings. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Duck aligns with the characteristics of the top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The impact of the bottom housing is primarily felt in the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing has a greater influence on the sound when releasing a key.
In summary, the differences between the Kailh Box White and the SP-Star Duck lie in their bottom housing materials. The Box White's nylon bottom housing produces a deeper and fuller sound, while the Duck's polycarbonate bottom housing aligns with its top housing in creating a sharper and crisper sound profile. However, when it comes to the top housing, both switches offer the same benefits of using polycarbonate, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on the desired sound profile and the specific qualities one is seeking in a switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, there are a few notable differences. The Box White has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, both of which are considered medium. On the other hand, the specific actuation force of the Duck switch is unavailable, but it has a bottom out force of 58 grams, also falling into the medium range.
In terms of weight, both switches offer a similar typing experience as they fall within the same medium force range. This means that users can expect a satisfying tactile response without requiring excessive force to trigger keystrokes. However, it's worth noting that the Box White switch is slightly heavier in terms of bottom out force at 60 grams, compared to the Duck switch's 58 grams.
Considering weight preferences, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Box White switch to be more suitable for extended typing sessions or prolonged gaming sessions. The lighter actuation and bottom out forces allow for a smoother and easier keystroke experience. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial and stronger push feel may lean towards the Duck switch, even though the specific actuation force is unknown. These users value the sense of solidity and resistance that a heavier bottom out force can provide during typing.
Ultimately, choosing between the Box White clicky switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch depends on personal preferences and typing style. Both switches fall into the medium force range, ensuring a satisfying typing experience, but the slight variation in weight may influence the decision for individuals who prioritize a specific actuation or bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, it is clear that they have different lengths. The Box White has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the Duck has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which have become increasingly popular in recent times, especially among gamers who prioritize faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive typing experience, opting for the shorter travel distance of the Box White may be the ideal choice for you. However, if you prefer a deeper key press and find shorter travel distances to feel too abrupt, the Duck's longer travel distance may be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on personal preference and desired typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck for $5.40.
The Kailh Box White comes in at $2.76 per 10 switches.
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 Kailh Box White clicky switch is known for its resonant and high-pitched profile. Typing on these switches produces a clean and sharp sound, reminiscent of stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offers a more neutral sound profile. It has a moderate sound that is suitable for most purposes, whether you're a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work. It's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, if you prefer a more immersive and higher-pitched auditory experience, the Box White clicky switch is the way to go. However, if you prefer a more subtle and neutral sound, the Duck tactile switch will provide you with a clean and crispy typing experience.
In terms of feel, both the Box White clicky switch and the Duck tactile switch share some similarities. They are both described as having a polished finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. However, the Box White clicky switch is specifically mentioned to have a polished feel, while the Duck tactile switch is also described as mild and buttery. A mild mechanical keyboard switch offers a gentle typing experience, suitable for most users, with qualities that fall in a safe and middle-ground zone. The buttery description implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Therefore, while the Box White clicky switch focuses on a polished feel, the Duck tactile switch combines a polished feel with a mild and buttery typing experience.
Taking all the available information into account, it's clear that the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities. The Box White excels in providing maximum audio feedback with its high-pitched and resonant sound profile, resembling the crunch of autumn leaves. It offers a polished feel for a sleek typing experience. On the other hand, the Duck offers a more subtle tactile typing experience with a clean and crispy sound profile. It combines a mild and buttery feel with a polished finish. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference. If you prefer a louder and more tactile experience, the Box White clicky switch is recommended. If you prefer a quieter and smoother typing experience, the Duck tactile switch will provide similar results.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, consider your preference for audio feedback and typing experience. If you desire maximum audio feedback and a more accented tactility, the Box White switch is the ideal choice. The sound profile of the Box White switch is described as resonant, high-pitched, and crunchy, providing an immersive auditory experience. Additionally, the Box White switch offers a polished feel, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle tactile typing experience, the Duck switch is perfect. The Duck switch offers a gentle tactility, clean and crispy sound profile, and a polished feel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer a clicky switch with maximum audio feedback or a tactile switch with a more subdued typing experience.
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