Outemu Blue vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Outemu Blue 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 to consider are the Outemu Blue, a clicky switch, and the SP-Star Duck, a tactile switch. The Outemu Blue switch is best known for its loud and satisfying click sound, making it ideal for those who enjoy auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck switch provides a more subtle tactile typing experience, with gentle tactility and a clean, crispy sound profile. The Blue switch is categorized as clicky, while the Duck switch falls under categories like neutral, mild, buttery, and polished. If you're someone who prefers a more pronounced clicky feel, the Outemu Blue switch may be the right choice for you. However, if you're looking for a quieter and more refined typing experience, the SP-Star Duck switch may be the better option. Let's dive a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Partial box
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Blue and the SP-Star Duck switches, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiff nature of polycarbonate, which leads to a clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting, as the clear housing allows for better light diffusion. However, while both switches share this top housing material, the Blue utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Duck's polycarbonate bottom housing. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound.
Despite both switches using polycarbonate for their top housing, the difference in bottom housing between the Blue and the Duck results in varying sound profiles and tactile feedback. The nylon bottom housing of the Blue contributes to a deeper and fuller sound when typing, emphasizing a softer and more absorbent material. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Duck maintains the sharper, crisper sound profile associated with polycarbonate, providing a clear and resonant sound. The split qualities of housing materials between the top and bottom of these switches highlight the impact each material has on the overall typing experience, influencing both the bottom-out sound and feel, as well as the sound upon key release.
While the housing materials of the Outemu Blue and the SP-Star Duck switches may differ in their bottom housing, the shared polycarbonate top housing ensures a similar sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile. Both switches benefit from the stiffness of polycarbonate, enhancing the clarity and resonance of the typing experience. However, the nylon bottom housing of the Blue introduces a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Duck maintains a sharp and clear sound. The choice of housing materials in these switches ultimately impacts the overall sound, feel, and aesthetic qualities of the typing experience, showcasing the importance of selecting the right materials for a personalized mechanical keyboard setup.
Weight
The Outemu Blue clicky switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. On the other hand, the Duck has a heavier bottom out force of 58 grams, while the bottom out force of the Blue switch is unavailable. Both switches offer a different typing experience based on their weight. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Blue switch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may enjoy the heavier bottom out force of the Duck switch for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm, providing a consistent typing experience for users. The travel distance is essential as it determines the depth at which the key needs to be pressed for actuation. In this case, both switches require the same actuation force to register a keypress, resulting in similar tactile feedback. This means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of travel distance and responsiveness when using either switch. Overall, the travel distance of both the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch is the same, offering a familiar feel for users regardless of which switch they choose.
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 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 Blue clicky switch is best known for its loud and crisp click sound, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a more pronounced auditory feedback while typing. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch is known for a more neutral sound profile, offering a moderate level of noise that is suitable for various environments without being overly disruptive.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Blue switch provides a tactile bump that is accompanied by a satisfying click, giving typists a responsive and tactile typing experience. In contrast, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offers a mild and buttery feel, providing a more gentle and polished typing sensation that is approachable to most users. The smooth and fluid keystroke of the Duck switch enhances the overall typing experience, making it a popular choice for those seeking a comfortable and effortless typing experience.
Overall, while the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch have different sound and feel qualities, both switches offer a great typing experience in their own right. The Blue switch is ideal for those who prefer a louder and more tactile typing experience, while the Duck switch is perfect for users looking for a more subtle and refined typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience that each individual is seeking.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Blue clicky switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a louder, more tactile typing experience with a light actuation force, the Outemu Blue switch may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle tactile feedback with a medium actuation force and a cleaner sound profile, the SP-Star Duck switch might be the perfect fit. Consider your typing environment, desired sound and feel, and overall typing preferences when making your decision. Ultimately, both switches offer their own unique characteristics, so take your time to test them out and see which one suits your typing needs best.
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