Outemu Spring Breeze vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Outemu Spring Breeze and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, there are some key differences to consider. The Spring Breeze is best known for its distinct clicky feedback, providing a satisfying sound and tactile feel with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Duck switch offers a more subtle tactile typing experience, with a gentle tactility and a clean, crispy sound profile. If you prefer a more pronounced tactile response, the Spring Breeze may be the better choice for you. However, if you're looking for a quieter and smoother typing experience, the Duck switch might be the way to go. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference, so 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
40g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
1.50 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
Nylon
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 Spring Breeze and SP-Star Duck both offer unique qualities in terms of their housing materials. The Spring Breeze features a nylon top housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Duck utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile thanks to its stiffer plastic composition. The translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for implementing RGB lighting, adding an aesthetic appeal to the switch.
In terms of bottom housing, the differences between the Spring Breeze's nylon and the Duck's polycarbonate remain consistent with their respective top housing materials. The nylon bottom housing of the Spring Breeze contributes to a deeper and rounder sound profile, while the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Duck creates a clearer and more resonant sound profile. The impact of the bottom housing is felt more during the bottom-out sound and feel, whereas the top housing plays a significant role in the sound when releasing a key.
Despite the differences between the housing materials of the Outemu Spring Breeze and SP-Star Duck, one can expect similar results in terms of typing experience. Both switches offer unique sound profiles due to their housing materials, but the Spring Breeze's nylon housing tends to create a duller and rounder sound, while the Duck's polycarbonate housing produces a crisper and sharper sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference in sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, it is evident that the Spring Breeze is lighter in terms of actuation force at 40 grams, while the Duck's actuation force is unknown. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the Spring Breeze requiring 55 grams and the Duck needing 58 grams. This means that while the Spring Breeze provides a lighter initial press, both switches offer a similar level of resistance when fully pressed. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Spring Breeze for extended typing sessions or gaming, while others may gravitate towards the slightly heavier bottom out force of the Duck for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and key press weight.
Travel distance
The Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing these two switches, it is clear that users can expect a similar feel and experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. This means that whether you choose the Spring Breeze or the Duck, you can expect a consistent and familiar keypress sensation. Overall, while both switches have the same travel distance, they may differ in other aspects such as actuation force or sound profile, so it's important to consider all factors when choosing the right switch for your keyboard.
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 Spring Breeze 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 Spring Breeze clicky switch remains a mystery, as there is no specific information available about its noise profile. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that it produces a moderate sound when typing, making it suitable for various environments and preferences. Remember, the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, details about the Outemu Spring Breeze switch are not provided. However, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch is known for offering a mild and buttery typing experience. This means that it provides a gentle tactile feedback along with a smooth and uniform key press, resulting in a polished feel overall. The Duck switches aim for a comfortable middle ground that should appeal to a wide range of users due to its approachable qualities.
In conclusion, if you are looking for a switch with a neutral sound profile and a gentle, buttery feel, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch would be a great choice for you. While the specific characteristics of the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch remain unknown, the information available suggests that both switches aim to provide a comfortable typing experience suitable for various users. Ultimately, choosing between the two would depend on personal preference for sound and feel when typing.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you are looking for a clicky switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a more distinct tactile feedback, the Outemu Spring Breeze clicky switch would be a great option for you. However, if you prefer a more subtle tactile typing experience with a medium bottom out force and a clean, crispy sound profile, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch would be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's essential to consider your typing style and preferences when choosing between the two.
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