Jerrzi Orange vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Jerrzi Orange and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Jerrzi Orange and SP-Star Duck offer unique experiences for different preferences. The Jerrzi Orange is a linear switch, prized for its clacky feel and lightweight touch, providing a responsive and lively typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck is a tactile switch, known for its subtle tactility and clean sound profile, offering a more subdued typing experience. While the Jerrzi Orange appeals to those who enjoy a more pronounced feedback, the SP-Star Duck caters to users seeking a smoother 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
37g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Jerrzi Orange and the SP-Star Duck, both switches feature polycarbonate top housings which create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the Orange differs in its use of nylon for the bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Duck utilizes polycarbonate for both top and bottom housings, maintaining its sharp and clear sound throughout.
The contrasting factors between the Orange and Duck lie in their bottom housing materials. While the Orange's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, the Duck's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the sharper and crisper sound profile consistent with its top housing material. The split in housing materials for the Orange allows for a combination of qualities in the sound and feel of the switch, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key.
Overall, the use of polycarbonate in the housing of both the Jerrzi Orange and SP-Star Duck provides a similar sound profile characterized by sharpness and clarity. The utilization of different bottom housing materials in the Orange and the all-polycarbonate construction of the Duck showcase how variations in housing materials can impact the overall sound and feel of a switch. Whether selecting a switch with different top and bottom housing materials for varied sound experiences or opting for a uniform material like polycarbonate for consistency, both options offer unique qualities for keyboard enthusiasts to consider.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Jerrzi Orange linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, it is evident that they have differences in their weight characteristics. The Jerrzi Orange has a lighter actuation force of 37 grams, while the SP-Star Duck has an unknown actuation force. In terms of bottom out force, the Duck is heavier with a force of 58 grams compared to the Orange's unknown bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time may lean towards the Orange switch, while individuals looking for a more substantial typing feel may gravitate towards the Duck switch. It is important to consider these weight factors when deciding which switch best suits one's typing needs.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Jerrzi Orange linear switch is 3.7 mm, while the SP-Star Duck tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances for mechanical switches. Gamers often prefer switches with shorter travel distances for quick response times, making the Orange switch a favorable choice in that aspect. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial key press may opt for the Duck switch with a slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference regarding key press depth and responsiveness.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jerrzi Orange has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange for $2.30.
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
The Jerrzi Orange switch provides a clacky and lively typing experience, with a crisp and bright sound profile that enthusiasts tend to enjoy. The lightweight feel of the switch is described as feathery and easy-to-press, making it comfortable for extended typing sessions, especially for gaming or work. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck switch offers a more subtle tactile typing experience with a clean and crispy sound profile. The tactility of the Duck switch is mild and buttery, providing a gentle typing sensation that is approachable to most users. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences.
When it comes to sound, the Jerrzi Orange switch produces a clacky and somewhat subdued sound, while the Duck switch offers a neutral and moderate sound profile. The choice of board and keycaps will also influence the overall sound experience, so it's essential to consider these factors when selecting a switch based on sound preferences. In terms of feel, the Orange switch is known for its feathery and easy-to-press qualities, reducing finger fatigue and providing a responsive typing experience. Conversely, the Duck switch is described as mild, buttery, and polished, offering a smooth and refined typing sensation that is comfortable for various typing tasks.
In conclusion, the Jerrzi Orange linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch provide distinct typing experiences in terms of sound and feel. If you prefer a clacky and vibrant typing experience, the Orange switch might be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you seek a more subtle and gentle typing feel, the Duck switch could be the ideal option. Consider your preferences for sound, feel, and typing tasks when deciding between these two switches to ensure a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Jerrzi Orange linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a lively and responsive typing feel with a crisp and clacky sound, the Jerrzi Orange switches would be a fantastic choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle tactile typing experience with a clean and crispy sound profile, the SP-Star Duck switches would be the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall feel and sound that you desire in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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