Outemu Purple vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Outemu Purple and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Outemu Purple and the SP-Star Duck mechanical keyboard switches, it is evident that both offer a tactile typing experience. The Purple switch is best known for its unique feature, while the Duck switch stands out for its subtle tactile feel, providing a clean and crispy sound profile. The Purple switch falls into the category of tactile switches, whereas the Duck switch is categorized as neutral, mild, buttery, and polished. If you are looking for a switch with a more pronounced and defined tactile feedback, the Outemu Purple might be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a softer and gentler typing experience, the SP-Star Duck switch could be the more suitable option. However, let's dive deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the right switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
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
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 Purple and SP-Star Duck switches, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This material is also ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting, given its translucency. However, where the two switches differ is in the bottom housing material. The Purple features a nylon bottom housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to nylon's softer nature that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Duck utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, mirroring the qualities of the top housing for a consistent sound and feel.
While both switches share the use of polycarbonate for their top housing, the difference in bottom housing materials between the Outemu Purple and SP-Star Duck brings unique sound characteristics to each switch. The nylon bottom housing in the Purple creates a deeper and fuller sound when compared to the crisper and sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate bottom housing in the Duck. This distinction highlights how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience and sound feedback of a mechanical keyboard switch.
In terms of feel and sound, the housing materials of the Outemu Purple and SP-Star Duck switches show how the qualities of each material are reflected in the typing experience. The bottom housing material plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, with nylon providing a deeper sound in the Purple and polycarbonate maintaining a clearer sound in the Duck. Conversely, the top housing material influences the sound when releasing a key, with polycarbonate offering a sharper sound profile in both switches. Overall, the combination of housing materials in each switch creates a unique typing experience and sound feedback for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts to appreciate.
Weight
The Outemu Purple tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams compared to the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, the Duck switch has a heavier bottom out force of 58 grams, while the bottom out force of the Purple switch is unavailable. This means that the Purple switch may require less force to trigger a keystroke but does not provide information on how much force is needed to press all the way down. On the other hand, the Duck switch has a medium bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. Both switches offer different weight options, catering to individuals who prefer lighter switches for longer typing sessions or heavier switches for a more robust typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Purple tactile 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, it can be noted that their travel distances are the same, resulting in a similar typing experience for users. The consistency in travel distance ensures that whether you choose the Outemu Purple or the SP-Star Duck switch, you can expect a similar keypress feel in terms of travel distance. This makes them both reliable options for individuals seeking a consistent 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 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
In terms of sound, the Outemu Purple tactile switch is known for its unique sound profile, which is difficult to describe accurately without experiencing it firsthand. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offers a more neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. Remember that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Purple tactile switch does not have a specific feel descriptor available. In contrast, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch is described as mild, buttery, and polished. This means that typing on the Duck switches will provide a gentle and smooth experience, with reduced friction and a refined key travel sensation. The mild tactility and buttery keystrokes make these switches approachable to most users, offering a comfortable typing experience.
Overall, if you're looking for a tactile switch with a unique sound profile, the Outemu Purple may be the way to go, whereas the SP-Star Duck switches offer a more subtle tactile typing experience with a clean and crispy sound. Both switches provide a comfortable typing experience, but the Duck switches may be more universally appealing due to their mild and polished characteristics. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Outemu Purple tactile switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, consider your preference for bottom out force, typing experience, sound profile, and feel. If you prefer a switch with no bottom out force and a unique typing experience, the Outemu Purple may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a medium bottom out force and a gentle tactile typing experience with a clean and crispy sound profile, the SP-Star Duck switch would be a great option. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches depends on your individual preferences and typing style.
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