Zuoce Lavender vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Lavender 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 Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offer distinct experiences to cater to different preferences. The Zuoce Lavender switch is renowned for its exceptional smoothness and clacky sound signature, providing a satisfying typing experience right out of the box. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck switch offers a more subtle tactile typing experience with gentle tactility and a clean, crispy sound profile. While the Lavender switch is best suited for those who prefer easy-to-press keys with a satisfying clack, the Duck switch caters to individuals seeking a mild, buttery feel with a polished sound. 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
48g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Z1 (Ly blend)
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 double-staged spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Zuoce Lavender and SP-Star Duck both feature POM top housings, but the Duck has a polycarbonate bottom housing while the Lavender has a POM bottom housing. This difference in housing materials can affect the overall sound profile and feel of the switches. The POM top housing of the Lavender creates a deeper and more muted sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Duck produces a sharper and crisper sound. On the other hand, the POM bottom housing of the Lavender contributes to the overall sound profile, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Duck impacts the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch.
Despite the difference in bottom housing materials, both the Zuoce Lavender and SP-Star Duck share similar qualities in their top housings. The POM top housing of the Lavender and the polycarbonate top housing of the Duck are known for creating a pleasing and unique sound. However, the specific sound profile differs between the two materials, with POM producing a deeper sound and polycarbonate resulting in a sharper and higher-pitched sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the Duck switch that the Lavender may lack.
In terms of how the housing materials impact the overall performance of the switches, the bottom housing material has more of an effect on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key. This means that the POM bottom housing of the Lavender will affect the overall typing experience in a different way compared to the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Duck. Despite these differences, both switches offer a unique typing experience based on the combination of their top and bottom housing materials.
Weight
The Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch differ in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Lavender has a lighter actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light option. In contrast, the Duck has an unknown actuation force and a heavier bottom out force of 58 grams, categorizing it as a medium switch. The lighter actuation force of the Lavender may appeal to those looking for a lighter typing experience, ideal for extended use during work or gaming sessions. Meanwhile, the heavier bottom out force of the Duck provides a more substantial push feel, catering to users who prefer a stronger typing sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches comes down to personal preference based on typing style and desired feel.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Lavender linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the SP-Star Duck tactile switch boasts a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Lavender offers a shorter travel distance, making it a favorable choice for those seeking quicker response times, such as gamers. On the other hand, the Duck provides a bit more depth with its longer travel distance, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key. Overall, the Lavender's shorter travel distance may appeal to individuals looking for a faster and more responsive typing experience, while the Duck's longer travel distance may suit those who prefer a bit more resistance and tactility.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Zuoce Lavender has an MSRP of $2.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lavender for $1.99.
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 Zuoce Lavender switch is known for its crisp and clacky sound signature, providing a sharp and snappy sound with each keystroke. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck switch offers a more neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes without being too loud or distracting. Both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, with the Lavender being more distinct in its sound profile while the Duck offers a cleaner and crispy sound.
When it comes to feel, the Lavender switch is easy-to-press, offering a light and effortless typing experience that minimizes finger fatigue during long typing sessions. In contrast, the Duck switch provides a mild and buttery typing feel, making each keystroke smooth and uniform. The polished finish of the Duck switch also contributes to a sleek and refined typing experience. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, with the Lavender being easier to press and the Duck delivering a more gentle and approachable feel.
In conclusion, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and SP-Star Duck tactile switch offer differing qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Lavender provides a crisp and clacky sound with an easy-to-press feel, creating a distinct and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Duck switch produces a neutral sound with a mild and buttery feel, appealing to those looking for a more subtle tactile typing experience. Depending on personal preference, both switches can deliver a satisfying typing experience, with the Lavender standing out for its smoothness and distinct sound, while the Duck excels in providing a gentle and polished typing feel. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel in a mechanical keyboard.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, consider the specific typing experience you prefer. If you value a smooth and clacky typing experience with a light actuation force, the Lavender switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle tactile typing experience with a moderate actuation force, the Duck switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you enjoy. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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