Outemu Silent White vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Outemu Silent White and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
when comparing the outemu silent white, a linear switch, to the sp-star duck, a tactile switch, certain distinctions become apparent. the silent white is known for its lack of audible feedback, making it ideal for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. on the other hand, the duck switches offer a subtle tactile typing experience with a clean and crispy sound profile, perfect for those who enjoy a gentle tactility while typing. the silent white is categorized as a silent switch, while the duck is described as neutral, mild, buttery, and polished. each switch has its own unique qualities that may cater to different preferences. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Outemu Silent White and the SP-Star Duck switches, both switches feature a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer nature. This leads to a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for switches that prioritize sound quality. Aesthetically, polycarbonate is also preferred for clear housings, as it allows for RGB lighting to shine through. Despite both switches utilizing polycarbonate for the top housing, the Silent White's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature, absorbing more sound for a duller and rounder sound compared to the Duck's polycarbonate bottom housing.
While the Silent White and Duck both utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, the nylon bottom housing of the Silent White sets it apart from the Duck. The nylon bottom housing of the Silent White contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to the crisper sound profile of the Duck's polycarbonate bottom housing. The difference in bottom housing material can have a significant impact on the overall sound and feel of the switch. The Silent White's bottom housing absorbs more sound, resulting in a rounder sound profile when typing, while the Duck's polycarbonate bottom housing allows for a sharper and clearer sound.
In terms of performance, the choice of housing materials in switches can greatly affect the overall typing experience. While both the Outemu Silent White and the SP-Star Duck switches feature a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper and crisper sound profile, the Silent White's nylon bottom housing provides a deeper and fuller sound compared to the Duck's polycarbonate bottom housing. The split between top and bottom housing materials allows for different qualities to be felt when pressing down on a key and releasing it. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
The Outemu Silent White linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch both have medium weight actuation forces, with the Silent White at 45 grams and the Duck as unknown. The bottom out force of the Silent White is slightly heavier at 60 grams compared to the Duck at 58 grams. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Silent White may be the better option due to its slightly lower bottom out force. On the other hand, the Duck may appeal to those who prefer a bit more resistance for a more substantial typing feel. Overall, the actuation force is the key factor in determining how easy it is to press a key, while the bottom out force affects how it feels when you bottom out the switch. Ultimately, the Silent White may provide a lighter typing experience overall, while the Duck offers a slightly heavier feel.
Travel distance
The Outemu Silent White linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, making it shorter than the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 4 mm. The Silent White provides a quicker response time, making it a popular choice among gamers who prefer shorter travel distances. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck offers a deeper key press, which some users may find more comfortable for extended typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience desired. Both switches offer different benefits, with the Silent White being shorter and the Duck being longer 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 Silent White 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 Silent White linear switch is known for its quiet operation, making it a great choice for those looking for a more stealthy typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, offering a moderate level of noise that is suitable for a variety of settings. Both switches can provide a pleasant typing experience, with the Silent White offering a quieter operation while the Duck provides a clean and crispy sound profile. Ultimately, the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as your keyboard and keycap choice.
In terms of feel, the Silent White switch does not have specific descriptors provided, so it is difficult to directly compare it with the Duck switch. The Duck tactile switch is described as having a mild tactility, providing a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Additionally, the switch is referred to as buttery, indicating a smooth and fluid keystroke sensation, as well as polished, suggesting a refined and sleek typing experience. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable and enjoyable typing feel, with the Duck switch leaning towards a softer and more refined tactile experience compared to the Silent White switch.
In conclusion, the Outemu Silent White linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offer different qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Silent White excels in providing a quiet typing experience, the Duck switch offers a more subtle tactile feedback with a clean and crispy sound profile. Depending on your preference for noise level and tactile feedback, you can choose the switch that best suits your typing needs. If you enjoy a quieter typing experience, the Silent White switch may be the better option, while the Duck switch is ideal for those looking for a gentle and refined tactile feel. Ultimately, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience depending on your personal preferences.
Conclusion
To wrap up, when deciding between Outemu Silent White linear switches and SP-Star Duck tactile switches, consider the following guidelines. If you prioritize a silent typing experience with a medium bottom out force of 60 grams, the Outemu Silent White switches would be a suitable choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more tactile typing experience with a slightly lower bottom out force of 58 grams, the SP-Star Duck switches would be more suitable. The Duck switches are known for their gentle tactility and clean sound profile, perfect for those seeking a subtle tactile typing sensation. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on your preference for typing feel and sound.
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