TTC Iron vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the TTC Iron and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Iron and the SP-Star Duck mechanical keyboard switches, one can immediately see distinct differences. The TTC Iron is a linear switch, known for its pronounced clacky sound signature and remarkably light actuation, offering swift and fatigue-free typing sessions. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck is a tactile switch that provides a more subtle tactile typing experience with a clean and crispy sound profile. The Iron is best suited for those who enjoy easy-to-press keys with a clacky feel, while the Duck is ideal for users seeking a gentle tactility and a polished typing experience. 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
41g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Iron and the SP-Star Duck, both the POM top and bottom housings of the Iron provide a deep and muted sound profile, whereas the polycarbonate top and bottom housings of the Duck offer a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The use of POM in the Iron results in a more consistent sound experience throughout keystrokes, while the polycarbonate material of the Duck may offer a more dynamic sound profile with a clearer and resonant tone. The translucency of polycarbonate in the Duck's housing also makes it ideal for enhancing RGB lighting effects, providing a visually appealing aspect to the switch.
While both the POM top and bottom housings of the Iron create a pleasing sound with a deeper profile, the polycarbonate housings of the Duck offer a sharper and crisper sound due to the material's stiffness. This difference in material properties leads to varying sound experiences when using the two switches, with the Iron providing a more consistent and muted sound throughout keystrokes, compared to the Duck's dynamic and resonant sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the Duck's housing allows for enhanced RGB lighting effects, adding a unique aesthetic touch to the switch.
In terms of tactile experience, the housing materials of the Iron and Duck play a significant role in determining the sound and feel of keystrokes. The POM and polycarbonate housings of the Iron and Duck, respectively, impact the sound and feel of both pressing down and letting go of a key. The bottom housing material has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material affects the sound when releasing a key. This highlights the importance of the housing material in determining the overall typing experience and how it can influence the sound and feel of a switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the TTC Iron linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, it is clear that the Iron is the lighter option with an actuation force of 41 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, while the Duck is heavier with an actuation force of None grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams. The Iron provides a lighter typing experience which may benefit those who prefer to type for long periods without fatigue, such as during work or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Duck offers a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, appealing to users who prefer a heavier force for increased tactile feedback. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
The TTC Iron linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, which is shorter than the SP-Star Duck tactile switch's 4 mm travel distance. The Iron switch falls on the shorter end of the spectrum with a more compact travel distance, making it ideal for those who prioritize quick response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Duck switch offers a slightly longer travel distance, which may provide a more satisfying key press for those who prefer a deeper actuation. Both switches cater to different preferences in terms of travel distance, with the Iron being shorter and the Duck being longer, allowing users to choose based on their individual preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Iron has an MSRP of $5.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Iron for $4.30.
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 TTC Iron linear switch is known for its clacky sound signature which provides a sharp and snappy noise with each keystroke. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offers a clean and crispy sound profile that is more subtle and gentle. Both switches fall under the neutral sound category, making them suitable for various environments and preferences, with the primary difference being the level of tactility in the sound produced.
Moving on to feel, the TTC Iron switch offers an easy-to-press experience with minimal force required for key activation, resulting in a light and effortless typing sensation. It also has mild characteristics that cater to a wide range of users. In comparison, the SP-Star Duck switch provides a mild typing experience with a gentle tactile feedback, buttery smooth key travel, and a polished finish for a sleek and refined typing feel. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, but the Duck switch provides a more nuanced and smoother feel due to its buttery and polished attributes.
In conclusion, the TTC Iron linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Iron switch excels in producing a clacky sound and providing an easy-to-press typing experience, the Duck switch stands out for its gentle tactility, clean sound profile, buttery smooth key travel, and polished finish. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences and typing styles, providing users with a range of options to choose from based on their individual preferences for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Iron linear switch or the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, you should take into account your preference for sound and feel. If you enjoy a clacky sound with easy-to-press key presses, the Iron switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle tactile typing experience with a buttery and polished feel, the Duck switch might be more to your liking. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what type of typing experience you value most – whether it be the sharp and snappy feedback of the Iron switch or the gentle tactility of the Duck switch. Consider your personal typing style and preferences when making your selection.
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