Durock Light Tactile vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Durock Light Tactile and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that come to mind are the Durock Light Tactile and the SP-Star Duck. Both switches offer a tactile typing experience but with their own unique characteristics. The Light Tactile switch from Durock is known for its super gentle tactility, providing a welcome contrast to the sharper tactile switches commonly found in the market. Typing on these switches gives a heavenly tactility accompanied by a jelly-like sound signature. On the other hand, the Duck switches offer a more subtle tactile typing experience. They have a gentle tactility that is pleasing, and the sound profile is clean and crispy. Both switches fall under the categories of 'Neutral' and 'Mild', emphasizing their versatility. The Light Tactile switch is labeled as 'Polished', while the Duck switches are described as both 'Buttery' and 'Polished'. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your specific preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
52g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
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
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Light Tactile and SP-Star Duck switches share several similarities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The translucent nature of polycarbonate also makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. This similarity ensures that users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics when using either switch.
However, where these switches differ is in their bottom housing materials. The Light Tactile employs a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile during typing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound compared to harder plastics. This means that when you press down on the Light Tactile switch, you will experience the qualities of the nylon bottom housing, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel.
In contrast, the SP-Star Duck utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, aligning with the top housing material of the Light Tactile. As mentioned before, polycarbonate offers a clear and resonant sound profile due to its stiff nature. Therefore, when pressing down on the Duck switch, you can expect a similar impact on the bottom-out sound and feel as the Light Tactile, thanks to the shared polycarbonate material.
Overall, both switches showcase the benefits of polycarbonate in enhancing the sound profile of mechanical switches. While the Light Tactile distinguishes itself with its nylon bottom housing, creating a deeper and fuller typing experience, the SP-Star Duck maintains consistency by utilizing polycarbonate for both top and bottom housings. Whether it's the Light Tactile or the Duck, users can anticipate an improved auditory experience with these housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, we can see some similarities and differences. Starting with the Durock Light Tactile, it has an actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it a medium-heavy option. On the other hand, the actuation force of the SP-Star Duck is unknown, but it has a bottom out force of 58 grams, which is considered medium.
In terms of weight, the preference varies among individuals. For those who prefer a lighter switch, allowing for longer typing sessions or extended gaming periods, the Durock Light Tactile may be a suitable choice. However, for those seeking a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, they might lean towards options with heavier forces, such as the SP-Star Duck.
Considering all this, it can be concluded that the Durock Light Tactile is lighter in terms of actuation force, while the SP-Star Duck lacks this specific information. However, when comparing the bottom out forces, both switches fall within the medium range. All in all, the choice between these two switches will ultimately depend on individual preferences for actuation force and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch is identical, both measuring 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same distance of travel. Both switches offer a satisfying tactile feedback without the need for a longer or shorter travel distance. Thus, whether you choose the Durock Light Tactile or the SP-Star Duck, you can expect similar results in terms of the travel distance of the switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Light Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Tactile for $4.25.
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
When it comes to sound, both the Durock Light Tactile and the SP-Star Duck tactile switches have a neutral sound profile. This means that they have a moderate sound that is suitable for most purposes, whether you're a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use them at home or work. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. So, while the switches themselves have a neutral sound profile, the overall sound may vary depending on your setup.
In terms of feel, both switches offer a mild typing experience. This means that they provide a more gentle tactile feedback compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The typing feel of both switches falls within a safe middle-ground zone, making them approachable to most users. Both switches are also described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish. This results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Durock Light Tactile switch is additionally described as having a jelly-like sound signature, while the SP-Star Duck switch is described as buttery, implying a smooth and fluid keystroke experience.
In conclusion, both the Durock Light Tactile and SP-Star Duck tactile switches offer a subtle and gentle tactile typing experience. They have a neutral sound profile and provide a polished feel with smooth key travel. While the Light Tactile switch has a jelly-like sound signature and the Duck switch is described as buttery, both switches offer similar qualities that make them suitable for users looking for a softer tactile feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference and the specific requirements of the user.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both the Durock Light Tactile and the SP-Star Duck switches have their own unique qualities that make them suitable for different preferences. If you're looking for a switch with a super gentle and angelic tactility, along with a jelly-like sound signature, the Durock Light Tactile would be an excellent choice. Its medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams provides a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle tactile feeling and a clean and crispy sound profile, the SP-Star Duck switches are perfect for you. With a medium bottom out force of 58 grams, these switches offer a gentle tactility. Both switches have a neutral sound and feel, making them suitable for various typing needs. Additionally, the Light Tactile switch is described as mild and polished, providing a safe and smooth typing experience, while the Duck switch is described as mild, buttery and polished, offering a seamless and effortless keystroke sensation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your personal preferences for tactility and sound, so consider trying them out to find the one that suits you best.
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