Outemu Gold vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Outemu Gold and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Outemu Gold, a clicky switch, and the SP-Star Duck, a tactile switch, offer different typing experiences for users to consider. The Gold switch is best known for its distinct clicky sound and tactile feedback, providing a satisfying typing experience for those who enjoy audible feedback. On the other hand, the Duck switch is perfect for users seeking a more subtle tactile typing experience, with gentle tactility and a clean sound profile. While the Gold switch falls under the category of clicky switches, the Duck switch is categorized as neutral, mild, buttery, and polished. Each switch has its own unique characteristics and advantages, catering to different preferences and needs. However, 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
1.80 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
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 Gold and the SP-Star Duck, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. This material delivers a sharp, high-pitched, and crisp sound profile due to its stiffness, allowing for clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for switches intended for use with RGB lighting. However, the Gold's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Duck's polycarbonate bottom housing, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller, rounder sound.
The use of different housing materials in the top and bottom of a switch can impact the overall typing experience. With the Gold's mix of polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housing, users can expect a combination of sharp, clear sound on key release from the top housing, and deep, full sound on key press from the bottom housing. In contrast, the SP-Star Duck's uniform polycarbonate housing throughout may result in a consistent sharp and resonant sound profile both when pressing down on a key and when releasing it. Each housing material brings its unique qualities to the overall sound and feel of the switch.
Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Gold and the SP-Star Duck will depend on personal preferences for sound profile and typing experience. The Gold's combination of polycarbonate and nylon housing offers a mix of sharpness and depth, while the Duck's uniform polycarbonate housing provides consistency in sound. Whether one prefers a sharper, more articulated sound or a fuller, more rounded sound, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences.
Weight
The Outemu Gold clicky switch has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams compared to the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Gold switch requiring 60 grams and the Duck switch requiring 58 grams. This means that while typing on the Gold switch may feel lighter and more responsive due to the lower actuation force, both switches will provide a similar level of resistance when fully pressed down. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and weight preference.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing the two switches, users can expect a consistent key press experience in terms of distance traveled. The 4 mm travel distance ensures a satisfying tactile feedback and actuation point for both switches. Overall, whether you choose the Outemu Gold clicky switch or the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, you can expect a similar travel distance and 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 Gold 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 Gold clicky switch is known for its loud clicky feedback, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a more audible typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, offering a more moderate and subtle typing experience. Depending on your preference, the Gold switch will provide a more satisfying click while the Duck switch will offer a quieter and cleaner sound.
As for feel, the Outemu Gold switch's tactile feedback is not specified, but it is likely to offer a more pronounced and tactile typing sensation due to its clicky nature. In contrast, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch is described as providing a mild and buttery typing experience, making it a great option for those who prefer a smoother and less pronounced tactile feel. The polished finish of the Duck switch also contributes to a refined and comfortable typing experience.
Overall, the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Gold switch provides a loud and clicky typing experience, the Duck switch offers a more subtle and smooth feel. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, you can choose between the two switches to achieve your desired typing experience. Keep in mind that the overall typing experience is also influenced by factors such as your keyboard and keycaps choice.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Outemu Gold clicky switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, consider your preferences and needs. If you enjoy a clicky typing experience with a slightly higher actuation force and are not sensitive to noise, the Gold switch may be the best option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle tactile typing experience with a lower actuation force and a cleaner sound profile, the Duck switch would be a better fit. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience. Consider trying out both switches to see which one aligns best with your preferences and typing style.
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