Outemu Phoenix vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Outemu Phoenix and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that users often consider are the Outemu Phoenix and the SP-Star Duck. The Outemu Phoenix is a clicky switch, and its standout feature is its unique under-skirt click mechanism. This makes it one of the most unique clicky switches available today, providing a tactile and audible experience unlike any other. With a crystalline and sparkling feel and sound profile, the Phoenix offers a clicky switch that is categorized as crunchy and polished. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck is a tactile switch that is perfect for those seeking a more subtle typing experience. These switches provide a gentle tactility when typing and offer a clean and crispy sound profile. Categorized as neutral, mild, buttery, and polished, the Duck switches offer a tactile switch option that is both satisfying and comfortable. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so that you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
1.80 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
Polycarbonate
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 Phoenix and the SP-Star Duck keyboards share many similarities in terms of their polycarbonate top and bottom housings. Both switches utilize polycarbonate, which is a stiff plastic that contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This stiffness also leads to a more clear and resonant sound, adding to the overall tactile experience of typing on these keyboards. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially advantageous for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows for vibrant illumination to shine through.
However, while the two keyboards share the same housing material, the Outemu Phoenix and the SP-Star Duck may offer slightly different experiences due to their unique construction and design. The qualities of the polycarbonate material will be split between the top and bottom housings. When pressing down on a key, the bottom housing will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, when releasing a key, the top housing will play a more prominent role in the resulting sound. Thus, individuals may notice subtle variations in the typing experience and sound profile between the two keyboards, even though they share the same polycarbonate housing material.
Overall, the choice to use polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housings in the Outemu Phoenix and the SP-Star Duck reflects a desire to achieve a specific sound and tactile feel. The stiffness and clarity offered by polycarbonate create a distinct typing experience that is characterized by sharpness, high pitches, and crispness. Whether typing on the Phoenix or the Duck, users can expect similar results in terms of the sound and feel of the switches. However, subtle differences may arise due to how the housing material is distributed between the top and bottom components, contributing to distinctive nuances in the typing experience of each keyboard.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, both switches have a medium bottom out force. The Outemu Phoenix has an actuation force of unavailable grams, while the SP-Star Duck's actuation force is also unavailable. This means that for both switches, the force required to trigger a keystroke is unknown. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Phoenix requires 62 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Duck which requires 58 grams. For individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time, the Duck may be the preferable choice. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial and forceful typing feel may lean towards the Phoenix. Ultimately, the specific actuation forces of these switches remain unknown, but the difference in bottom out force allows for a contrasting experience between the two.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch is 3.3 mm, while the SP-Star Duck tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. 4.0mm is the most traditional travel distance, while 3.0mm is the most shallow. In comparison, the Phoenix switch falls closer to the shallow end with its 3.3 mm travel distance. This makes it a popular choice among gamers who prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times. On the other hand, the Duck switch offers a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm, providing a more hearty depth for those who prefer a more tactile feel. While they have different travel distances, both switches offer unique advantages and it ultimately depends on individual preference.
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 Phoenix comes in at $4.15 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 Phoenix clicky switch is best known for its unique and distinctive crunchiness. When typing on these switches, you can expect a sound profile that resembles stepping on piles of crisp and crunchy autumn leaves. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offers a more neutral sound profile. With a moderate actuation force requirement, these switches produce a clean and crispy sound. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. Overall, if you prefer a more pronounced and distinctive clicky sound, the Phoenix switches would be the ideal choice. However, if you prefer a more subtle and neutral sound, the Duck switches would be more suitable.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch provides a polished typing experience. This indicates that the switch has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in sleek and effortless key travel. With reduced friction, typing on these switches feels smooth and refined. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offers a milder typing experience. These switches have a gentle tactility, making them approachable to most users. The feel of the Duck switches can be described as buttery, providing a seamless and uniform typing sensation. Similar to the sound, the feel of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as materials used and factory lubing. Therefore, if you prefer a polished and smooth typing experience, the Phoenix switches would be the better choice. However, if you prefer a more gentle and approachable feel, the Duck switches would be more suitable.
In conclusion, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Phoenix switches are best known for their crunchy click sound and polished feel, providing a unique and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the Duck switches offer a more neutral sound and a milder and buttery feel, ensuring a comfortable and gentle typing experience. Depending on your preferences, you can choose between the distinctive and pronounced qualities of the Phoenix switches or the subtlety and approachability of the Duck switches. Please keep in mind that the overall experience can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering the two options, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch would be a great choice if you are looking for a unique and distinctive typing experience. With its under-skirt click mechanism, the Phoenix switches offer a crystalline and sparkling feel and sound profile. They have a medium 62-gram bottom out force, providing a satisfying key press. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch would be more suitable if you prefer a more subtle tactile typing experience. These switches have a gentle tactility and a clean and crispy sound profile. With a medium 58-gram bottom out force, they strike a balance in terms of actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two would depend on whether you prefer a more unique and pronounced clicky experience or a subtle and gentle tactile typing experience. Both switches offer their own distinct qualities, and it is up to your personal preference to decide which one aligns better with your typing style and preferences.
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