Outemu Dustproof Purple vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Outemu Dustproof Purple 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 Purple and the SP-Star Duck offer unique typing experiences. The Dustproof Purple is a clicky switch known for its satisfying audible click with each keypress. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck is a tactile switch that provides a subtle tactile typing experience with a clean and crispy sound profile. If you prefer a more audible and tactile typing experience, the Dustproof Purple may be the way to go. However, if you're looking for a more subtle tactile typing experience, the SP-Star Duck switches might be the perfect choice. Both switches provide their own advantages, but before making a decision, 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
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
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 Purple and SP-Star Duck both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the material's stiffness. This results in a more resonant sound and is especially beneficial for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. However, the Dustproof Purple uses a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Duck's polycarbonate bottom housing. The nylon material is softer and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing.
In terms of aesthetics, both switches feature clear housings due to the polycarbonate material used in their top housing. This allows for the RGB lighting to shine through and adds to the overall visual appeal of the switches. However, the different bottom housing materials of the Dustproof Purple and the SP-Star Duck contribute to the overall typing experience. While the Duck's polycarbonate bottom housing leads to a clearer and more resonant sound when pressing down on the keys, the Dustproof Purple's nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel of the keys.
Overall, the choice between the Outemu Dustproof Purple and the SP-Star Duck will depend on personal preferences for sound profiles and typing feel. Both switches offer a sharp and crisp sound due to their polycarbonate top housing, but the Dustproof Purple's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Duck's polycarbonate bottom housing. Whether you prioritize a sharper sound or a deeper sound when typing, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences.
Weight
In comparing the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, it is evident that the actuation force and bottom out force differ between the two. The Dustproof Purple has a heavier actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it more suitable for those who prefer a stronger push feel while typing. On the other hand, the Duck has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 58 grams, which is lighter in comparison to the Dustproof Purple. This makes the Duck a better option for individuals who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions. Despite the variances in force, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, but with the Dustproof Purple providing a heavier feel and the Duck offering a lighter touch.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Dustproof Purple 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 can result in similar typing experiences for users who prefer either clicky or tactile switches. Overall, both switches provide a consistent travel distance which can enhance typing performance and comfort for users.
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 Purple 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 Dustproof Purple clicky switch is known for its unique and distinctive clicky sound that is louder and more tactile compared to other switches. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offers a clean and crispy sound profile, with a more subtle tactile typing experience. Both switches provide a satisfying auditory feedback, but the Dustproof Purple might be preferred by those who enjoy a more pronounced and clicky sound while typing.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch does not have a specific description available, while the SP-Star Duck tactile switch is described as mild, buttery, and polished. This means that typing on the Duck switches will offer a gentle and smooth typing experience, with a refined finish that enhances key travel and reduces friction. The feel of the Duck switches falls in a safe middle-ground zone, making them approachable to most users. In contrast, the feel of the Dustproof Purple switch may vary depending on personal preference, as it is known for its clicky and tactile feedback.
Overall, the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Dustproof Purple provides a louder and more tactile typing experience with its clicky sound, the Duck switches offer a clean and crispy sound profile with a more gentle and polished feel. Choosing between these switches will ultimately depend on personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking for. Whether you prefer a more pronounced clicky sound or a subtle tactile feel, both switches will provide a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Dustproof Purple clicky switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, you should consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a more pronounced tactile feedback and a heavier bottom out force, the Dustproof Purple may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle tactile feel with a lighter bottom out force, the Duck switch could be the perfect fit. Additionally, if you value a cleaner and crispy sound profile, the Duck switch may be more appealing to you. Ultimately, your decision should come down to your personal typing preferences and what characteristics you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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