Durock Medium Tactile vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Durock Medium Tactile and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options for tactile enthusiasts are the Durock Medium Tactile and the SP-Star Duck switches. The Durock Medium Tactile is praised for its unique flavor of tactility, striking a delicate balance between pronounced feedback and a satisfying keypress. Additionally, its jelly-like sound signature adds an extra touch of character to your typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck switches offer a more subtle tactile feel, providing a gentle bump when typing. The sound profile is clean and crispy, perfect for those who prefer quieter switches. While these general descriptions give a glimpse into the qualities of each switch, it's crucial to delve deeper into their specific characteristics to determine the best fit for your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Durock Medium Tactile and the SP-Star Duck, it is clear that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing. This choice of material results in similar qualities for both switches. The use of polycarbonate creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, enhancing the overall typing experience. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows for a more vibrant and visually appealing lighting effect. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound and aesthetics when using either the Durock Medium Tactile or the SP-Star Duck.
However, the difference lies in the bottom housing material. The Medium Tactile incorporates a nylon bottom housing, while the Duck features a polycarbonate bottom housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a deeper and fuller sound profile. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housing. On the other hand, the polycarbonate used in the Duck's bottom housing maintains the sharper and crisper sound profile associated with this material. Therefore, the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch will be impacted differently depending on the choice of housing material.
It is important to note that the qualities brought by each housing material, whether polycarbonate or nylon, are split between the top and bottom housing of the switch. While the bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. This means that the Durock Medium Tactile and the SP-Star Duck may exhibit subtle differences in sound and feel during typing due to the variations in their bottom housing material.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Medium Tactile switch and the SP-Star Duck switch, there are some similarities and differences to note. Starting with the actuation force, the specific gram measurement is unavailable for both switches. Therefore, it is difficult to directly compare them in terms of actuation force. However, it can be assumed that they have a similar actuation force since no specific weight is mentioned for either switch.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Durock Medium Tactile switch has a bottom out force of 65 grams, which can be considered medium-heavy. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck switch has a bottom out force of 58 grams, which falls within the medium range. This means that the Durock Medium Tactile switch is slightly heavier when it comes to bottoming out compared to the SP-Star Duck switch.
Considering weight as an important factor, some individuals prefer lighter switches for extended typing periods and prolonged gaming sessions. These lighter switches are suitable for portable keyboards taken to work or for long periods of gaming. However, there are those who prefer a stronger push feel, which provides a more substantial typing experience. For them, switches with heavier forces are the ideal choice.
In conclusion, while the actuation forces of the Durock Medium Tactile switch and the SP-Star Duck switch are unknown, it can be assumed that they yield similar results. However, the Durock Medium Tactile switch has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 65 grams compared to the SP-Star Duck switch's 58 grams, making it the heavier option for those seeking a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The Durock Medium Tactile and the SP-Star Duck tactile switches both have a travel distance of 4 mm, meaning that they both travel the same distance from the top to the bottom. This indicates that pressing down on a key with either switch will result in a similar tactile experience. Therefore, users can expect comparable results in terms of the travel distance when using either of these switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Medium 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 Medium 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, the Durock Medium Tactile switch is known for having a jelly-like sound signature. While there is no specific descriptor provided for the SP-Star Duck switch in terms of sound, it is described as having a clean and crispy sound profile. Both switches offer different sound profiles, with the Medium Tactile being more pronounced and the Duck switch being more subtle. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Durock Medium Tactile switch is described as an accented, stepped, mild, and polished switch. This means that it provides a prominent yet balanced tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, and it has a smooth and refined finish for a sleek typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck switch is described as a mild, buttery, and polished switch. This suggests that it offers a gentle typing experience, with a smooth and fluid keystroke, and a sleek typing feel. Both switches provide a comfortable typing experience but with slightly different characteristics.
Taking all the available information into account, the Durock Medium Tactile switch is best known for its pronounced yet balanced tactility and jelly-like sound signature. It offers a medium level of tactility without being overwhelming, and the polished finish provides a smoother typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck switch is known for its subtle tactility and clean, crispy sound profile. It offers a mild typing experience with a buttery feel and a polished finish. Although they have some different qualities, both switches provide a comfortable and approachable typing experience. If you are looking for a more pronounced tactility and unique sound signature, the Durock Medium Tactile switch would be a good choice. If you prefer a more subtle tactile typing experience with a clean sound profile, the SP-Star Duck switch would be a suitable option.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a pronounced yet balanced tactility, the Durock Medium Tactile is a great choice. It offers an accented feel with a stepped switch design, providing a prominent amount of tactility without being overwhelming. Additionally, it has a jelly-like sound signature that adds to the typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle tactile typing experience, the SP-Star Duck switches are perfect. With a medium bottom out force, these switches offer a gentle tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. They provide a clean and crispy sound profile, adding to the overall typing experience. The Duck switches are also described as mild, buttery, and polished, offering a smooth and refined finish for a sleek typing experience.
Ultimately, your choice between the Durock Medium Tactile and the SP-Star Duck switches depends on your preferences. If you prefer a more pronounced tactility and a jelly-like sound signature, the Durock Medium Tactile is the way to go. However, if you prefer a more subtle tactility and a clean and crispy sound profile, the SP-Star Duck switches are a great option. Consider your typing style and desired typing experience to make an informed decision.
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