Outemu Milk Tea vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Outemu Milk Tea and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the Outemu Milk Tea and the SP-Star Duck mechanical keyboard switches, it’s important to consider your preferences and typing style. The Milk Tea switch is best known for its unique characteristics, while the Duck switch is favored for its subtle tactile typing experience. The Milk Tea switch falls into the category of smooth, while the Duck switch is categorized as neutral, mild, buttery, and polished. Each switch offers its own advantages depending on your preference, with the Milk Tea potentially providing a different typing experience than the Duck switch. However, let’s dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can 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
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
Ly
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Milk Tea and SP-Star Duck switches offer contrasting sound profiles due to the difference in materials used. The Milk Tea's Ly top housing provides a bright and resonant sound signature, while the Duck's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. In terms of aesthetics, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting, giving it a visually appealing quality. On the other hand, the Milk Tea's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the Duck's polycarbonate bottom housing, which contributes to a sharper and higher-pitched sound.
Despite their differences, both switches share similarities in the way their housing materials impact the overall typing experience. The contrasting qualities of the top and bottom housings of each switch provide a unique balance in sound and feel when typing on them. While the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, the top housing plays a significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. This distribution of qualities between the two housing materials contributes to a dynamic typing experience that is both distinct and engaging for users.
In summary, the choice of housing materials between the Outemu Milk Tea and SP-Star Duck switches offers users the opportunity to tailor their typing experience to their preferences. Whether opting for the resonant clacks of the Milk Tea's Ly top housing or the sharper sound profile of the Duck's polycarbonate top housing, users have the freedom to select a switch that aligns with their audio aesthetic. Additionally, the differing qualities of the bottom housings provide a nuanced feel when typing, with the Milk Tea's nylon offering a deeper sound profile compared to the Duck's polycarbonate. Overall, the housing materials of these switches exemplify how material selection can impact the overall typing experience for enthusiasts and casual users alike.
Weight
Comparing the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, the Milk Tea has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, while the Duck's actuation force is unknown. When it comes to bottom out force, the Duck is heavier at 58 grams compared to the Milk Tea's unknown bottom out force. If the actuation force of the Duck is similar to the Milk Tea, then users can expect a lighter typing experience. The actuation force is crucial for triggering a keystroke, while the bottom out force determines the amount of force required to press a key all the way down. Users who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Milk Tea, while those who prefer a more substantial push feel may prefer the Duck for a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences and typing habits.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same amount of travel from the top to the bottom. As a result, the typing experience with both switches will be quite similar in terms of the distance the key travels. This makes them ideal options for those who prefer a consistent feel while typing. So, whether you choose the Milk Tea or the Duck, you can expect to get similar results in terms of travel distance.
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 Tea 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 Tea tactile switch does not have a specific descriptor provided, indicating that its sound profile may not be a defining feature. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that the Duck switch produces a moderate sound that is suitable for a wide range of preferences and environments, making it a versatile option for various typing needs.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch does not have a specific descriptor provided. In contrast, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch is described as offering a mild, buttery, and polished typing experience. This suggests that the Duck switch provides a gentle and smooth keystroke with reduced friction, resulting in a refined and effortless typing sensation that is comfortable for most users.
Overall, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a subtle typing experience and a clean, crispy sound profile, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch may be the ideal choice for you. While the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch may not have specific qualities outlined, both switches offer a tactile typing experience that is approachable and enjoyable for a wide range of users. Keep in mind that personal preference, typing style, and other factors such as keycaps and keyboard construction will also play a role in the overall feel and sound of the switches. Ultimately, trying out different switches and experimenting with combinations will help you find the perfect fit for your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Outemu Milk Tea tactile switch or the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, the decision ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a switch with a lighter bottom out force and are looking for a unique typing experience, the Milk Tea may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium bottom out force and a gentle tactile feel, the SP-Star Duck switch would be a great option. Both switches have their own strengths and qualities, so it's important to consider what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch. Ultimately, the decision is yours to make based on your own preferences and typing needs.
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