Outemu Crystal Brown vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal Brown and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, it's important to consider the specific features and benefits of each type. The Outemu Crystal Brown switch is categorized as none, with its notable trait being None. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck switch falls into the neutral, mild, buttery, polished category and is best known for providing a subtle tactile typing experience with a clean and crispy sound profile. If you prefer a gentle tactility in your typing experience, the Duck switches may be the perfect choice for you. 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
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
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 Crystal Brown and the SP-Star Duck, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, leading to a more clear and resonant sound. In terms of aesthetics, polycarbonate is ideal for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. However, where the switches differ is in their bottom housing materials. The Crystal Brown has a nylon bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Duck's polycarbonate bottom housing, which enhances the sharper and crisper sound profile.
The contrast between the nylon bottom housing of the Crystal Brown and the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Duck highlights the impact of housing material on the overall sound profile of a switch. The softer nylon of the Crystal Brown absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound, while the stiffer polycarbonate of the Duck maintains a clearer and more resonant sound. When typing on these switches, the difference in bottom housing material is felt in the bottom-out sound and feel, affecting the overall typing experience. This showcases how the choice of housing material can significantly influence the user's interaction with a mechanical keyboard switch.
While both switches share a polycarbonate top housing for a similar sound profile, the differentiation in their bottom housing materials provides a unique typing experience for each switch. The split of qualities between the top and bottom housing materials demonstrates how each component contributes to the overall sound and feel of a switch. Whether preferring a deeper and fuller sound from a nylon bottom housing or a sharper and clearer sound from a polycarbonate bottom housing, keyboard enthusiasts can choose a switch that aligns with their desired typing experience based on the housing materials used.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, it is evident that the Crystal Brown is the lighter option with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams. On the other hand, the Duck is slightly heavier with an actuation force that is unknown but a bottom out force of 58 grams. Both switches fall within the medium-light to medium range, offering a balance between typing comfort and tactile feedback. The difference in weight may be subtle, but it can have a significant impact on the typing experience based on individual preferences. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Crystal Brown for extended typing sessions, while others may appreciate the slightly heavier bottom out force of the Duck for a more substantial feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether a lighter or heavier typing experience is desired.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This makes them both suitable choices for those who prefer a tactile feedback while typing or gaming. The consistent travel distance of 4mm in both switches ensures a similar typing experience, allowing users to achieve comparable results 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 Crystal Brown 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 Crystal Brown tactile switch does not have a specific descriptor or description provided, making it difficult to compare directly to the SP-Star Duck tactile switch which is described as having a neutral sound profile. However, both switches are likely to produce a relatively moderate sound that can be suitable for various environments.
Moving on to feel, the Outemu Crystal Brown switch lacks a specific descriptor while the SP-Star Duck switch is described as mild, buttery, and polished. This indicates that the Duck switch offers a gentle and smooth typing experience with reduced friction and a sleek key travel. In contrast, the Crystal Brown switch's feel remains unknown, making it challenging to directly compare these two switches in terms of tactile feedback.
In conclusion, while the specific qualities of the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch may not be as well-defined as those of the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, it is likely that both switches offer a relatively moderate sound profile. The Duck switch's mild, buttery, and polished feel suggests a smooth typing experience that caters to a wide range of users. If you choose the Crystal Brown switch, you can expect a similar experience in sound quality and potentially a comparable typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences and the overall keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In closing, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-bottom out force and a subtle typing experience, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch would be a great choice. These switches offer a gentle tactility and a clean sound profile, making them suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and are seeking a switch with a neutral sound profile and a smooth typing experience, the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch might be the better option for you. Consider your preferences for actuation force, sound, and feel when deciding between these two switches to ensure the best typing experience for your needs.
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