Outemu Blue Jade vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Outemu Blue Jade and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Blue Jade and SP-Star Duck offer distinct typing experiences. The Blue Jade is a clicky switch known for its audible feedback and tactile bump, providing a satisfying typing experience for those who enjoy a more pronounced click with each keystroke. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck offers a tactile typing experience with a subtle tactility that is perfect for those who prefer a quieter switch. The Duck switches are characterized by a clean and crispy sound profile, making them ideal for users who value a more subdued 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
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.20 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
Nylon
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
When comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Blue Jade and the SP-Star Duck, it is clear that they both offer unique characteristics based on their material composition. The Blue Jade's nylon top and bottom housing create a softer, deeper sound profile due to nylon's ability to absorb sound more effectively, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Duck's polycarbonate top and bottom housing produce a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, thanks to polycarbonate's stiffer nature that enhances clarity and resonance. Despite these differences, both housing materials are essential in influencing the overall sound and feel of the switches.
One key distinction between the Blue Jade and the SP-Star Duck is their aesthetic qualities associated with their housing materials. The Blue Jade's nylon housing is opaque, which may not be visually appealing for those looking to incorporate RGB lighting into their setup. In comparison, the Duck's polycarbonate housing is translucent, making it ideal for showcasing RGB lighting effects due to its clear and transparent nature. This difference in appearance highlights how housing materials can serve a dual function by not only affecting sound but also enhancing visual aesthetics.
Overall, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate housing materials ultimately comes down to personal preference and desired outcomes. While the Blue Jade's nylon housing may provide a deeper and fuller sound experience, the Duck's polycarbonate housing offers a sharper and more resonant sound profile. Both materials have their unique advantages, whether it be in sound quality, aesthetics, or RGB lighting compatibility, demonstrating the importance of housing materials in customizing the typing experience to suit individual preferences.
Weight
The Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch has a higher actuation force of 50 grams compared to the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Blue Jade is 65 grams, while the Duck has a bottom out force of 58 grams, making it slightly lighter. The Blue Jade provides a more substantial typing experience with its higher bottom out force, making it ideal for users who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Duck switch may be more suitable for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of typing or gaming. Both switches offer different weight options, allowing users to choose based on their preferences for typing comfort and performance.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This consistency allows for a similar typing experience regardless of which switch is used. The travel distance of these switches is relatively standard compared to other switches on the market, providing a comfortable typing experience for users. Overall, the travel distance of both the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch is the same, resulting in similar results for users 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 Blue Jade 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
When it comes to sound, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch is known for its loud and crisp clicky noise, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offers a more subtle sound profile, described as neutral, which is suitable for various environments and preferences. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by other factors, such as the keyboard design and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch is known for its tactile feedback, providing a satisfying and pronounced sensation when typing. In comparison, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch is described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Additionally, the Duck switch is also characterized as buttery and polished, indicating a smooth and refined keystroke experience with reduced friction and effortless key travel.
Considering the available information, it is clear that the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Blue Jade switch provides a loud and tactile typing experience, the Duck switch offers a more subtle tactile feedback and a clean, neutral sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. It's worth noting that both switches aim to provide a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience, so you can expect similar levels of quality and performance from either option.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a clicky switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a more pronounced tactile feedback, then the Outemu Blue Jade switches would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you favor a tactile switch with a lighter bottom out force and a more subtle tactile experience, the SP-Star Duck switches would be a better fit. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing feel and sound, whether you prefer a crisp and clicky typing experience or a more gentle and buttery feel. Consider your typing habits and environment when choosing between these two switches to ensure the best fit for your needs.
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