Outemu Black vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Outemu Black and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options stand out: the Outemu Black linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch. The Outemu Black switch is well-known for its smooth and consistent keystrokes, making it ideal for gamers who prefer a linear typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck switch offers a subtle tactile feedback, perfect for those who enjoy a more refined typing feel. The Duck switch also boasts a clean and crispy sound profile, adding another layer of satisfaction to the 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
65g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
82g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.50 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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
Both the Outemu Black and SP-Star Duck utilize polycarbonate in their top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which leads to a more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, the Black's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Duck's polycarbonate bottom housing. This is because nylon is softer and absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound.
While both switches share the use of polycarbonate in the top housing for similar sound qualities, the difference lies in the bottom housing material. The split housing design allows the characteristics of each material to impact different aspects of typing. Pressing down on the switch will emphasize the qualities of the bottom housing, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the release of a key will showcase the impact of the top housing on sound production. This split design creates a unique typing experience based on the combination of housing materials used in each switch.
Overall, the combination of polycarbonate in the top housing for both switches provides a consistent sharp and clear sound profile. However, the difference in bottom housing material between the Black and Duck results in varying sound profiles when typing on each switch. The nylon bottom housing of the Black offers a deeper and fuller sound, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Duck contributes to a sharper and crisper sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal sound preferences and typing experience desired by the user.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Black linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, it is evident that the Black switch is heavier in both aspects. The Outemu Black has an actuation force of 65 grams and a bottom out force of 82 grams, making it a switch that requires a significant amount of force to press down completely. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck has an unknown actuation force but a bottom out force of 58 grams, which is lighter in comparison to the Outemu Black. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the SP-Star Duck more suitable for longer typing sessions, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may prefer the heavier actuation and bottom out forces of the Outemu Black. In essence, the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches play a significant role in determining the typing experience for users, with lighter forces being preferable for some and heavier forces for others.
Travel distance
The Outemu Black linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4mm, making them both equal in this aspect. The travel distance of a switch is crucial as it determines the distance a key travels from the top to the bottom when pressed. This distance can impact the typing experience, with shorter travel distances providing a quicker response time, while longer travel distances can offer a more satisfying tactile feedback. In this case, both the Outemu Black and SP-Star Duck switches offer the same travel distance, ensuring a consistent feel and performance when typing.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Outemu Black comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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 Outemu Black linear switch is known for having a neutral sound profile, meaning it has a moderate sound level suitable for various settings. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offers a clean and crispy sound, providing a more subtle tactile typing experience. Both switches offer pleasant typing sounds, with the Black being more versatile due to its neutrality, while the Duck offers a unique crispiness to its sound.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Black switch does not have any specific qualities mentioned. In contrast, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch is described as offering a mild and buttery typing experience. These qualities indicate a gentle and smooth keystroke with reduced friction, providing a comfortable typing sensation. While the Black switch may offer a standard linear feel, the Duck switch stands out for its approachable and polished typing experience.
Overall, if you prefer a neutral sound profile and a standard linear feel, the Outemu Black switch would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, if you are looking for a more unique sound with a gentle and buttery feel, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch would be a great option. Keep in mind that personal preference plays a significant role in selecting the right switch for your mechanical keyboard, so trying out both switches to see which one suits your typing style best would be advisable.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between the Outemu Black linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, consider your typing preferences and needs. If you prefer a heavier key press and do not require any tactile feedback, the Black switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a lighter key press with a subtle tactile bump for a more refined typing experience, the Duck switch is worth considering. Ultimately, the final decision should be based on your personal typing style and what feels most comfortable to you. Happy typing!
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