Outemu Red vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Outemu Red and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Outemu Red linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch are two popular options to consider. The Outemu Red switch is best known for its smooth keystrokes without any tactile feedback or audible click, making it ideal for those who prefer a quiet typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck switch is perfect for those seeking a more tactile typing experience, with a gentle tactility and clean sound profile. The Duck switch is categorized as having a 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Buttery', and 'Polished' feel, offering a different feel compared to the linear Outemu Red switch. 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
46g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.10 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
Both the Outemu Red and SP-Star Duck switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which creates a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is beneficial for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. However, the materials differ when it comes to the bottom housing. The Outemu Red features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature, absorbing more sound compared to harder plastics. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, maintaining the sharp and clear sound profile associated with polycarbonate.
The use of different housing materials in the Outemu Red and SP-Star Duck switches results in a divide in the qualities each material brings to the overall switch experience. When typing on these switches, the bottom housing material will have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, influencing the overall typing experience. In contrast, the top housing material will play a larger role in the sound produced when releasing a key. This distinction showcases how the combination of housing materials can affect the overall sound profile and tactile feedback of a switch.
While the polycarbonate top housing in both the Outemu Red and SP-Star Duck switches provides similar characteristics in terms of sound profile and stiffness, the distinction in bottom housing materials leads to variations in the typing experience. The nylon bottom housing of the Outemu Red offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a unique typing experience compared to the sharper sound produced by the polycarbonate bottom housing of the SP-Star Duck. Despite these differences, both switches benefit from the use of polycarbonate in the top housing for its clear and resonant sound, especially when paired with RGB lighting. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches may come down to personal preference for sound and feel.
Weight
The Outemu Red linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch have differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Outemu Red has an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, while the SP-Star Duck has an actuation force of None grams and a bottom out force of 58 grams. The Outemu Red is lighter in terms of actuation force but heavier in bottom out force compared to the SP-Star Duck. Some users may prefer a lighter actuation force for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may prefer a heavier bottom out force for a more solid typing experience. Both switches offer a medium resistance level, providing a balance between typing comfort and tactile feedback. Overall, while their force levels differ, users can expect similar results in terms of typing experience from both switches.
Travel distance
Both the Outemu Red linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key using either switch, you will feel a consistent 4mm distance of travel. Even though they have the same travel distance, the Red linear switch provides a smooth and consistent feel throughout the entire press, while the Duck tactile switch has a tactile bump feedback halfway through the press, providing a different typing experience. Overall, while the travel distance is the same, the tactile feedback of the switches sets them apart in terms of typing feel.
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 Red 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 Red linear switch is best known for its neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of uses. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch is known for its clean and crispy sound, providing a more subtle typing experience. Both switches offer a pleasant sound profile, but the Duck switch may offer a slightly more satisfying auditory experience for those looking for a quieter typing sound.
When it comes to feel, the Outemu Red switch has a reputation for being mild, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. The SP-Star Duck tactile switch, on the other hand, is described as buttery and polished, providing a smooth and refined typing sensation with reduced friction and smooth key travel. While both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, the Duck switch may appeal more to those who prefer a more luxurious and fluid keystroke.
Overall, both the Outemu Red linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offer excellent qualities for mechanical keyboard users. If you prefer a neutral sound profile and a mild typing experience, the Red switch is a solid choice. However, if you are looking for a more refined sound and feel with a buttery and polished typing experience, the Duck switch may be more to your liking. Ultimately, both switches offer impressive qualities, and your choice will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth and consistent typing experience with a medium actuation force, you may want to choose the Outemu Red linear switch. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle tactile typing experience with a similar actuation force, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch would be a great option. The Duck switches provide a gentle tactility and a clean sound profile, making them suitable for various typing environments. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for typing feel and sound.
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