KTT Pine vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the KTT Pine and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, two popular switch options to consider are the KTT Pine and the SP-Star Duck. The KTT Pine is best known for its medium-heavy weight, resulting in a buttery smooth typing experience. The switches are specifically designed to minimize friction, ensuring smooth key travel every time. In addition, the Pine switch offers a distinctive low-pitched sound profile, adding to the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck switch provides a more subtle tactile feel while typing. This switch is perfect for those who prefer a gentle tactility without sacrificing the crispness of the sound profile. While both switches share similarities such as a buttery feel and a polished finish, they differ in their weight and sound characteristics. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the switch that suits your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15.5mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The KTT Pine and the SP-Star Duck both have polycarbonate top and bottom housings, which means they share similar qualities in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. The use of polycarbonate in both housings creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, which leads to a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for those who plan to use RGB lighting, as it allows the light to shine through and create a visually appealing effect.
However, it is worth noting that if the top and bottom housings of a switch are different, the qualities of each housing material will be split between the bottom and the top of the switch. When pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing will have more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing will have more impact on the sound when letting go of a key. So, while both the Pine and the Duck have polycarbonate top and bottom housings, the specific design and construction of these housings may result in subtle variations in the overall sound and feel of the switches.
In summary, the KTT Pine and the SP-Star Duck share similar housing materials in the form of polycarbonate top and bottom housings. As a result, both switches offer a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. They also both benefit from the translucency of polycarbonate for those who wish to use RGB lighting. However, the specific design and construction of the housings may lead to slight differences in the overall sound and feel of the switches. The bottom housing will have more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will have more impact on the sound when letting go of a key.
Weight
When comparing the KTT Pine linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, one key difference is in their actuation force. The Pine switch requires a force of 45 grams to trigger a keystroke, while the actuation force of the Duck switch is unknown. However, both switches have a bottom out force of 58 grams, which is considered medium.
Weight is an important consideration when choosing a switch, as it can affect typing comfort and endurance. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Pine switch, as its actuation force is relatively low. This lighter feel allows for longer typing sessions, making it suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may prefer a switch with a heavier actuation force. Unfortunately, without information on the actuation force of the Duck switch, it is unclear how it compares in terms of heaviness.
In terms of bottoming out, both switches require a force of 58 grams, indicating a similar resistance when fully pressed. Therefore, if someone is looking for comparable bottoming out force, both the Pine and the Duck switches would provide a similar experience.
In summary, while the actuation force of the KTT Pine linear switch is known to be 45 grams, the actuation force of the SP-Star Duck tactile switch remains unknown. However, both switches share a bottom out force of 58 grams, providing a medium resistance when fully pressed. The Pine switch is lighter in terms of actuation force, allowing for extended typing sessions, while the heavier push feel preferred by some individuals remains uncertain for the Duck switch.
Travel distance
The KTT Pine linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that both switches will travel a distance of 4mm from the top to the bottom when pressed. As a result, users can expect similar tactile feedback and sensation when using either of these switches. So, whether you choose the KTT Pine or the SP-Star Duck, you can rely on getting a consistent travel distance and a satisfying typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The KTT Pine has an MSRP of $4.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $4.15.
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.
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 KTT Pine linear switch is best described as bassy and low-pitched. The bassy sound profile offers a deeper and richer tone during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Additionally, the low-pitched characteristic of these switches contributes to a more bass-heavy and mellow sound. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch has a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate sound with no specific emphasis on bass or treble. The typing experience with the Duck switch provides a clean and crispy sound. It's important to note that while the switch itself contributes to the overall sound, other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps also play a role in determining the final sound profile. In both cases, the sound produced will heavily depend on the specific setup. Therefore, with the KTT Pine linear switch, you can expect a bassy and low-pitched sound, while the SP-Star Duck tactile switch will offer a neutral and clean sound experience.
Moving on to the feel, the KTT Pine linear switch is described as buttery and creamy. A buttery switch provides a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, giving a seamless and effortless typing sensation. These medium-heavy switches are built to offer an effortless typing experience, and the factory-lubed finish minimizes friction for smooth key travel. Additionally, the creaminess of the switch further enhances the smooth and buttery typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch is described as mild, buttery, and polished. The mild characteristic of these switches means that they offer a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The buttery feel ensures a smooth and fluid keystroke, providing a seamless and uniform typing sensation. The polished finish of the switches results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both the KTT Pine linear switch and SP-Star Duck tactile switch offer a buttery and smooth typing experience, allowing for comfortable and effortless typing.
Considering all the available information, the KTT Pine linear switch and SP-Star Duck tactile switch have unique subjective qualities that cater to different preferences. The Pine switch stands out with its bassy and low-pitched sound profile, offering a rich and deep tone during key presses. Its buttery and creamy feel ensures a smooth and fluid typing experience, making typing effortless. On the other hand, the Duck switch provides a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a variety of purposes. It offers a mild and gentle typing experience, while also being buttery and polished for smooth key travel. Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on individual preferences in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience. It's important to consider one's personal preferences and usage requirements to determine which switch would be the best fit. However, if you are looking for a similar typing experience, both switches provide a buttery and smooth sensation, allowing for comfortable and effortless typing.
Conclusion
In summary, when considering the KTT Pine linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, there are a few key factors to consider.
First, the bottom out force of both switches is 58 grams, which falls into the medium range. This means that they both provide a balanced typing experience in terms of required force.
The KTT Pine linear switch is best known for its smooth and effortless typing experience. With a polished, factory-lubed finish, these switches minimize friction and provide a buttery smooth key travel. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offers a more subtle tactile typing experience. The tactility is gentle, and the sound profile is clean and crispy.
When it comes to sound, the KTT Pine switch offers a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, which provides a deeper and richer tone during key presses. The SP-Star Duck switch, on the other hand, has a more neutral sound profile that is suitable for most purposes.
In terms of feel, the KTT Pine switch is described as buttery and creamy, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. The SP-Star Duck switch, meanwhile, offers a mild typing experience that falls in a safe middle-ground zone. It also features a buttery and polished feel due to the smooth and refined finish and reduced friction.
Ultimately, if you are seeking a linear switch that is smooth and effortless to type on with a deeper and richer sound profile, the KTT Pine switch is a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle tactile typing experience with a clean and crispy sound profile, the SP-Star Duck switch would be a perfect fit. Consider your personal preferences and typing style when making your decision.
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