Outemu Dustproof Black vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Black and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Dustproof Black and the SP-Star Duck offer unique typing experiences. The Dustproof Black is a linear switch, known for its smooth keystrokes and minimal resistance. On the other hand, the Duck is a tactile switch, providing a subtle tactile feedback with a clean and crispy sound profile. If you prefer a linear switch for fast and seamless typing, the Dustproof Black may be the right choice for you. However, if you enjoy a tactile typing experience with a gentle tactility, the SP-Star Duck switches would be a great option. 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
60g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
80g
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
The Outemu Dustproof Black and SP-Star Duck both feature polycarbonate top housing, which is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This material is especially useful for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting, as its translucency allows for the light to shine through. However, the Dustproof Black also features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Duck's polycarbonate bottom housing. The nylon's softer nature absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound overall.
In terms of sound profile, the Dustproof Black's combination of polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing creates a unique balance between sharpness and depth, while the SP-Star Duck's use of polycarbonate for both top and bottom housing results in a consistently sharp and clear sound profile throughout. The different housing materials in the Dustproof Black offer a more varied typing experience, with differences felt when bottoming out keys versus releasing them, while the SP-Star Duck provides a more consistent sound and feel across all keystrokes.
Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Dustproof Black and SP-Star Duck housing materials comes down to personal preference. If you prefer a switch that offers a balance of sharpness and depth in sound, the Dustproof Black may be the better option with its mix of polycarbonate and nylon housing. However, if you value consistency in sound and feel across all keystrokes, the SP-Star Duck's polycarbonate housing throughout may be more appealing. Both switches offer quality construction and unique sound profiles, making them suitable choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, it is evident that the Dustproof Black is the heavier option. The Dustproof Black has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 80 grams, while the Duck has an actuation force of None grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams. This means that the Dustproof Black will require more force to trigger a keystroke and to fully press down compared to the Duck. Some may prefer the heavy actuation and bottom out force of the Dustproof Black for a more substantial typing experience, while others may opt for the lighter force of the Duck for longer typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and weight.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing these two switches, it can be noted that the Dustproof Black linear switch provides a smooth linear keypress, while the Duck tactile switch offers a more tactile and responsive typing experience. Despite their differences in feel, their travel distance remains the same, allowing for consistent feedback and performance. Whether you prefer the shorter travel distance of the Outemu Dustproof Black switch or the longer travel distance of the SP-Star Duck switch, both options will provide a satisfying typing experience.
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 Dustproof 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
The Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch is known for its lack of specific qualities, while the SP-Star Duck tactile switch is popular for providing a subtle tactile typing experience with a clean and crispy sound profile. The Dustproof Black switch does not have a specific sound descriptor provided, while the Duck switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Dustproof Black does not have a specific feel descriptor provided, while the Duck switch is described as offering a mild, buttery, and polished typing experience. This means that the Duck switch provides a gentle and smooth keystroke with reduced friction and a sleek typing sensation, appealing to a wide range of users due to its approachable qualities.
In conclusion, the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offer distinct subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Dustproof Black lacks specific descriptors in these categories, the Duck switch stands out for its neutral sound profile and mild, buttery, and polished feel. Depending on your preference for a tactile typing experience and sound profile, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different user preferences. Ultimately, if you enjoy a more subtle tactile typing experience with a clean sound profile, the Duck switch may be the ideal choice for you.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Dustproof Black linear switch or the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, it ultimately depends on your preferences and typing needs. If you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a linear switch without any particular standout features, the Dustproof Black may be more suited to you. However, if you are looking for a medium bottom out force with a gentle tactile typing experience and a clean sound profile, the SP-Star Duck switch would be a better choice. Overall, the Duck switch offers a more approachable and refined typing experience, making it suitable for a wide range of users, whether beginners or experienced typists. Ultimately, it is important to consider what qualities matter most to you in a mechanical keyboard switch when making a decision.
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