Kailh Plum vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Kailh Plum 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 to consider are the Kailh Plum and the SP-Star Duck, both of which are tactile switches. The Plum is known for its unique combination of heftiness and a subtle tactile bump, setting it apart from other tactile switches that typically prioritize tactility and weightiness. With a neutral and enjoyable sound profile, the Plum offers a typing experience that is both satisfying and distinct. On the other hand, the Duck switches offer a more subtle tactile feedback, providing a typing experience that is gentle and refined. With a clean and crispy sound profile, the Duck switches deliver a smooth and satisfying typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the most suitable switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
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
The housing materials of the Kailh Plum and the SP-Star Duck share many similarities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate lends itself to a more clear and resonant sound when typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar sound characteristics and aesthetic features from both switches when it comes to their polycarbonate top housing.
However, where the two switches differ is in their choice of bottom housing material. The Plum utilizes nylon, a classic switch housing material that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing. On the other hand, the Duck opts for a polycarbonate bottom housing, which aligns with its top housing material. This choice contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile similar to that of its top housing.
When comparing the two switches, it's important to note that the qualities brought by each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. So, when pressing down on either switch, users will experience the qualities of their respective bottom housing material. Conversely, when releasing a key, the sound produced will be influenced more by the top housing. Despite these differences, both the Kailh Plum and the SP-Star Duck offer unique sound profiles due to their varying housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Plum tactile switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, it is important to consider their weight. In terms of actuation force, both switches have unavailable gram measurements, suggesting that they have a similar force required to trigger a keystroke. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, there is a difference between the two switches. The Kailh Plum has a bottom out force of 70 grams, which is considered medium-heavy, while the SP-Star Duck has a bottom out force of 58 grams, which falls into the medium range.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the SP-Star Duck would be the more suitable choice as it has a lighter bottom out force. This can be advantageous for individuals who need to type for extended periods, such as in a work or gaming setting. On the other hand, those who desire a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Kailh Plum switch with its heavier bottom out force. Depending on personal preference, both switches can deliver satisfying typing experiences, albeit with different levels of force required.
Travel distance
The Kailh Plum tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the SP-Star Duck tactile switch has a travel distance of 4.0 mm. Therefore, the Duck switch has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Plum switch. The Plum switch falls into the category of shorter travel distances, which are becoming more popular, especially among gamers who prioritize faster response times. On the other hand, the Duck switch offers a bit more depth in its travel distance, which may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial feel when pressing down on a key. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches would depend on personal preference regarding the amount of depth and responsiveness desired.
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 Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25 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
The Kailh Plum tactile switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch have different subjective qualities when it comes to sound. The Plum switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, which means it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound level. This makes it suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or at work. Similarly, the Duck switch is also described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that both switches will provide a balanced and enjoyable typing experience in terms of sound.
When it comes to feel, the Plum switch is described as having a mild and stepped tactile feel. A mild switch offers a gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics, making it approachable to most users. The stepped feature of the Plum switch means that the tactile feedback is not a single, big bump, but rather has two stages with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. On the other hand, the Duck switch is described as having a mild, buttery, and polished feel. A buttery switch implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. The polished feature of the Duck switch indicates a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Overall, the Plum switch offers a gentle and mild tactile feel, while the Duck switch provides a smooth and polished typing experience.
In conclusion, the Kailh Plum tactile switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch have slightly different subjective qualities in terms of feel, but their sound profiles are both described as neutral. The Plum switch is unique in its weightiness without a huge tactile bump, while the Duck switch offers a more subtle tactile typing experience. Both switches will provide an enjoyable typing experience, with the Plum switch being approachable to most users and the Duck switch offering a smooth and polished feel. Depending on your preference for weightiness and tactile feedback, you can expect similar results in terms of sound with both switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a unique typing experience, the Kailh Plum switches would be a great choice. These switches offer a hefty feel without a pronounced tactile bump, making them stand out from other tactile switches. The sound profile is described as neutral and enjoyable, making them suitable for both beginners and advanced users in any setting. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subtle tactile typing experience, the SP-Star Duck switches are perfect. With a lower bottom out force and a gentle tactility, these switches provide a clean and crispy sound profile. They are also described as mild and buttery, offering a smooth and refined typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the Kailh Plum and SP-Star Duck switches depends on your preference for weightiness and tactile feedback.
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