Bsun Cinnamon Pink vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Bsun Cinnamon Pink and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Bsun Cinnamon Pink linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offer distinct advantages worth considering. On one hand, the Cinnamon Pink switch boasts a delicate balance with a distinctively clacky sound that's not overpowering, providing a smooth action and medium-light typing feel. It is perfect for those who prefer a creamy and frictionless typing experience. On the other hand, the Duck switch offers a more subtle tactile typing experience with a gentle tactility and clean, crispy sound profile. It is ideal for those who enjoy a buttery and polished feel while typing. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
37g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
42g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.45 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Ly
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage nickel-plated spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Bsun Cinnamon Pink and the SP-Star Duck both feature unique housing materials that play a crucial role in determining the sound profile of the switch. The Cinnamon Pink utilizes POM for both its top and bottom housings, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound profile. In contrast, the Duck incorporates polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of POM in the Cinnamon Pink emphasizes a more subdued auditory experience, while the polycarbonate in the Duck accentuates a more vibrant and clear sound output.
Despite their differences, both the Cinnamon Pink and the Duck share similar characteristics when it comes to their housing material. They each have a clear understanding of how important the material of the housing is in affecting the overall sound profile of the switch. While the POM housings of the Cinnamon Pink deliver a unique and pleasing sound, the polycarbonate housings of the Duck provide a sharper and more resonant audio experience. Additionally, both switches take into consideration the aesthetic appeal, as polycarbonate's translucency is especially useful for RGB lighting effects, mirroring the attention to detail in their design and construction.
When it comes to the tactile experience of using these switches, the differences in their housing materials become more pronounced. The POM bottom housing of the Cinnamon Pink will contribute more to the bottom-out sound and feel, leading to a deeper and softer landing when pressing down on a key. Conversely, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Duck will result in a more pronounced and sharp impact upon actuation. The impact of the top housing material is felt more when releasing a key, with POM providing a smoother and more subtle sound release compared to the crisp and clear sound produced by the polycarbonate.
Weight
The actuation force of the Bsun Cinnamon Pink linear switch is 37 grams, while the SP-Star Duck tactile switch has an unknown actuation force. The bottom out force of the Cinnamon Pink is 42 grams, which is considered light, whereas the Duck has a bottom out force of 58 grams, placing it in the medium range. The lighter actuation and bottom out force of the Cinnamon Pink make it more suitable for users who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods, such as those who type for work or engage in long gaming sessions. In contrast, the heavier bottom out force of the Duck provides a more substantial typing experience, appealing to users who prefer a stronger push feel. Overall, selecting between the two switches would depend on individual preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Bsun Cinnamon Pink linear switch is 3.45mm, while the SP-Star Duck tactile switch has a travel distance of 4mm. In this case, the Duck switch has the longer travel distance compared to the Cinnamon Pink switch. The difference may not seem significant, but it can affect the user's typing experience. For those who prefer a shorter travel distance for faster response times, the Cinnamon Pink switch would be the better choice. However, if you prefer a more substantial key press with a bit more depth, the Duck switch may be more to your liking. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference and typing style.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Cinnamon Pink has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Cinnamon Pink for $3.83.
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.
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
In terms of sound, the Bsun Cinnamon Pink linear switch offers a distinctively clacky and sharp sound that is not overpowering, providing a crisp, bright, and percussive auditory experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch is known for its neutral sound profile, offering a clean and crispy sound that is suitable for most intents and purposes. The sound produced by each switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
When it comes to feel, the Bsun Cinnamon Pink switch provides a creamy and frictionless typing experience with a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined keystroke sensation. These switches are described as silky and snappy, offering a responsive and low-impact typing feel that minimizes resistance. Conversely, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offers a mild and buttery typing experience, providing a gentle keystroke sensation that is approachable to most users. The switch also has a polished finish, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, the Bsun Cinnamon Pink linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Cinnamon Pink switch excels in providing a clacky and smooth typing experience with a crisp sound profile, while the Duck switch offers a subtle tactile typing experience with a clean and crispy sound. Both switches deliver a balanced and comfortable typing feel, catering to different preferences and typing styles. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Bsun Cinnamon Pink linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, consider the factors that matter most to you. If you value a smooth and clacky typing experience with a light actuation force, the Cinnamon Pink switch is the way to go. It offers a creamy, frictionless, and polished feel while delivering a distinctive sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle tactile typing sensation with a medium actuation force, the Duck switch is the better choice. It provides a mild, buttery, and polished feel, along with a clean and crispy sound profile. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences in typing feel, sound, and actuation force.
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