Bsun Guyu vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Bsun Guyu and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Bsun Guyu linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch for your mechanical keyboard, you'll find yourself faced with unique characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The Bsun Guyu switch stands out for its distinctive auditory experience, with all-POM housings and a long pole stem creating a bright and crisp bottom-out sound. Its medium weight and super-smooth keystrokes provide an effortlessly glide with resonant feedback, making each typing session a pleasure. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck switch offers a more subtle tactile typing experience, with a gentle tactility and clean, crispy sound profile. While the Bsun Guyu is described as 'Clacky', 'Creamy', and 'Snappy', the SP-Star Duck is labeled as 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Buttery'. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing needs; 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
UPE
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
21mm spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Bsun Guyu and SP-Star Duck both utilize different materials for their top and bottom housing components. The Guyu features a POM top housing, which is known for creating a deeper and more muted sound profile. In contrast, the Duck incorporates a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This difference in top housing materials can significantly impact the overall sound experience of the keyboard switch, catering to different sound preferences. However, if both switches were to use the same material for their top housing, the sound profiles might show more similarities in terms of pitch and resonance.
On the other hand, when it comes to the bottom housing, both the Guyu and Duck opt for different materials. The Guyu utilizes a POM bottom housing, which mirrors the qualities of its top housing with a deep and muted sound profile. In comparison, the Duck incorporates a polycarbonate bottom housing, resulting in a similarly crisp and resonant sound profile as its top housing. The choice of material for the bottom housing can affect the feel and sound of the switch when pressed down, providing a tactile experience that complements the overall sound output of the keyboard switch.
Overall, the differences in housing materials between the Bsun Guyu and SP-Star Duck offer unique sound profiles and tactile experiences for keyboard enthusiasts to explore. The distinct characteristics of POM and polycarbonate materials in both the top and bottom housings contribute to the overall sound signature and feel of the switches, catering to different preferences in sound and tactile feedback. While the Guyu and Duck showcase contrasting sound profiles due to their different housing materials, the use of the same material for both top and bottom housings would likely result in a more consistent sound experience across all keystrokes.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Guyu linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, it is evident that the Guyu is lighter in both aspects. The Guyu has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it a lighter option overall. In contrast, the Duck has a bottom out force of 58 grams, which is heavier than the Guyu. While the actuation force of the Duck is unknown, it is safe to assume that it is higher than 45 grams given the higher bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Guyu, while those who prefer a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Duck. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing and gaming experiences.
Travel distance
The Bsun Guyu linear switch and SP-Star Duck tactile switch have different travel distances, with the Guyu having a shorter distance of 3.6 mm compared to the Duck's 4 mm. The Guyu's shorter travel distance may make it more appealing to those looking for a faster response time, particularly gamers who require quick reflexes. On the other hand, the Duck's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying and deeper keystroke sensation for those who prefer a more deliberate typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with the Guyu offering a shorter travel distance for speed and the Duck providing a longer travel distance for a more substantial feel. Both switches offer unique advantages, so it's important to consider what feels most comfortable and efficient for your typing needs.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Guyu has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Guyu for $3.70.
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 Guyu linear switch is known for its clacky sound, producing a sharp and snappy noise when pressed, creating a crisp and bright auditory experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offers a more neutral sound profile, with a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound level suitable for various typing environments. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the BSUN Guyu linear switch is praised for its creamy, frictionless, polished, silky, and snappy typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery sensation with minimal resistance or friction. Conversely, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch provides a mild, buttery, and polished typing experience, presenting a gentle and fluid keystroke feel that is approachable to most users. Both switches promise a refined and effortless typing experience, catering to different preferences in terms of tactile feedback and keypress smoothness.
Overall, the BSUN Guyu linear switch stands out for its unique auditory experience with a balance of depth and clarity in sound, along with a super-smooth keystroke feel that makes typing sessions effortless and enjoyable. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offers a subtle tactile typing experience with a clean and crispy sound profile, providing a gentle tactility for a comfortable typing experience. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer distinct qualities that can enhance your typing experience, ensuring that you'll get satisfying results no matter which option you choose.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Bsun Guyu linear switch or the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, it ultimately depends on your preference for sound and feel. If you prioritize a unique auditory experience with a bright and crisp sound profile, along with super-smooth keystrokes, then the Guyu switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle tactile typing experience with a clean and crispy sound profile, then the Duck switch would be more suitable. Keep in mind that the Guyu has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Duck has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 58 grams. Consider your typing preferences and environment to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Mentioned in this article
