Outemu Milk Peach vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Outemu Milk Peach and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Outemu Milk Peach and the SP-Star Duck mechanical keyboard switches, you’ll find yourself faced with a decision on linear versus tactile typing experiences. The Milk Peach is a linear switch, which means it provides a smooth and consistent keystroke without any tactile feedback. On the other hand, the Duck switch offers a subtle tactile typing experience, with a gentle bump felt while typing but without the audible click of some tactile switches. The Milk Peach is best known for its linear feel, while the Duck switch is praised for its subtle tactility and clean sound profile. So, if you prefer a smooth and consistent typing experience, the Milk Peach may be the way to go, whereas if you enjoy a gentle tactile feedback while typing, the SP-Star Duck could be more up your alley. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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 Milk Peach and the SP-Star Duck both feature polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This results in a more clear and resonant sound, making it a popular choice for switches that plan to use RGB lighting. However, their differences lie in the bottom housing material. The Milk Peach utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound with its softer plastic composition. On the other hand, the Duck features a polycarbonate bottom housing, continuing the sharp and clear sound profile trend seen in the top housing.
With different top and bottom housing materials in these switches, users can experience a split in the qualities each material brings. Pressing down on the switch will emphasize the characteristics of the bottom housing, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. In contrast, the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound produced when a key is released. This distinction offers users a varied tactile experience based on the combination of housing materials used in each switch. Despite these differences, the overall sound profile of the switches is likely to be similar due to the use of polycarbonate in the top housing of both switches.
In conclusion, while the Outemu Milk Peach and SP-Star Duck share the use of polycarbonate in their top housing to create a sharp and clear sound profile suitable for RGB lighting, their differing bottom housing materials provide distinct tactile experiences. The Milk Peach's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Duck's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains the sharp and resonant sound characteristics. By understanding how each housing material influences the sound and feel of the switches, users can choose the one that best suits their preferences for typing and gaming experiences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Milk Peach linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, the Milk Peach is lighter with an actuation force of 45 grams, while the Duck is heavier with a bottom out force of 58 grams. The Milk Peach does not have a specified bottom out force, while the Duck's medium 58-gram bottom out force provides a more substantial typing experience. Both switches offer different weight options for users to choose from based on their preferences. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Milk Peach for longer typing sessions, while those who prefer a heavier feel may opt for the Duck for a more tactile typing experience. Regardless of the differences in actuation and bottom out force, users can expect a consistent and reliable typing experience from both switches.
Travel distance
The Outemu Milk Peach linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the SP-Star Duck tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Milk Peach has a shorter travel distance compared to the Duck. A shorter travel distance like the one on the Milk Peach may be preferred by gamers looking for faster response times. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the SP-Star Duck may provide a more satisfying depth for some users. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding travel distance and the overall typing experience desired.
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 Milk Peach 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 Milk Peach linear switch is known for its quiet operation, making it ideal for environments where noise is a concern. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch is described as having a clean and crispy sound profile, providing a satisfying auditory experience while typing. Both switches offer a different sound experience, with the Milk Peach being quieter and the Duck having a more noticeable sound presence. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preferences for typing noise.
When it comes to feel, the Milk Peach linear switch may offer a smooth and consistent typing experience, although specific details are not provided. In contrast, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch is known for providing a gentle tactility while typing, giving a subtle tactile feedback without being too pronounced. Additionally, the Duck switch is described as buttery and polished, offering a smooth and refined typing sensation that is approachable for most users. The Milk Peach may provide a more straightforward linear typing experience, while the Duck offers a more versatile tactile feedback.
Overall, the Outemu Milk Peach linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Milk Peach provides a quiet and potentially smooth typing experience, while the Duck offers a clean and crispy sound profile with a gentle tactile feedback. Choosing between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing noise and tactile feel, as both switches excel in different aspects. It is important to consider factors such as personal typing style, environment, and preference for sound and feel when selecting the ideal switch for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a switch with a subtle tactile typing experience, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. Its medium bottom out force of 58 grams offers a gentle tactility while typing, with a clean and crispy sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a linear switch with no bottom out force like the Outemu Milk Peach, and if you are seeking a switch that provides a smooth and buttery typing sensation, then the Milk Peach would be the better option for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound, as both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences.