Jwick Semi-Silent Linear vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear 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 stand out are the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the SP-Star Duck. The Semi-Silent Linear is praised for its innovation, offering a unique typing experience. It boasts a whisper-quiet topping-out sound while still providing a satisfying clacky bottom-out sound. The switch's feel is described as silky smooth, striking a balance between being polished and retaining its character. On the other hand, the Duck switches are lauded for their subtle tactile typing experience. With a gentle tactility, typing on these switches feels satisfying without being too pronounced. The sound profile is clean and crispy, creating a pleasant auditory experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
62g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
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
The housing materials of the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the SP-Star Duck share similar properties when it comes to the polycarbonate top housing. Both switches utilize polycarbonate, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, resulting in a clear and resonant sound. It is worth noting that the translucency of polycarbonate is particularly beneficial for those planning to use RGB lighting in their switches. Therefore, users can expect similar sound profiles and visual effects from both the Semi-Silent Linear and the Duck switches in terms of their polycarbonate top housing.
However, the difference lies in the choice of the bottom housing material. The Semi-Silent Linear features a nylon bottom housing, which introduces unique characteristics to its typing experience. The nylon material offers a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to polycarbonate. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the Duck utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, aligning it with the top housing material. Therefore, the Duck switch will maintain a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile across both the top and bottom housing.
In terms of user experience, the choice of housing materials in these switches plays a significant role. Pressing down on the switch will primarily highlight the qualities of the bottom housing. As such, users of the Semi-Silent Linear can expect a typing experience that emphasizes the depth and fullness of the sound, thanks to the nylon bottom housing. Conversely, the Duck switch, with its polycarbonate bottom housing, will provide a more uniform sound profile throughout the keypress. Additionally, the sound when releasing a key will be influenced more by the characteristics of the top housing in both switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, we find some similarities and differences. Unfortunately, the specific actuation forces are unavailable for both switches. However, both switches have a medium bottom out force, with the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch having a bottom out force of 62 grams and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch having a bottom out force of 58 grams.
Considering weight, some individuals prefer lighter switches as they allow for longer typing sessions, making them ideal for work or extended gaming periods. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may prefer switches with heavier forces. In this case, the comparison would lead us to believe that the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch is heavier, with its 62-gram bottom out force, compared to the SP-Star Duck tactile switch with a 58-gram bottom out force.
While specific actuation forces remain unknown, both switches should offer a similar typing experience when it comes to actuation. However, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch may provide a slightly heavier and more substantial feel due to its higher bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference regarding the desired typing experience and the weight of the keys.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, it is clear that there is a slight difference. The Semi-Silent Linear has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Duck has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of traditional standards, both switches fall within the acceptable range. However, if you are a gamer seeking a faster response time, the shorter travel distance of the Semi-Silent Linear may be more appealing. On the other hand, if you prefer a deeper and more substantial feel when pressing down on a key, the SP-Star Duck with its slightly longer travel distance may be the better option for you. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference and what feels most comfortable to you during typing or gaming sessions.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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
The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch is best known for its innovative design that combines a whisper-quiet topping-out sound with a clacky bottom-out sound. This gives it a unique sound profile that is described as subdued, providing a dampened sound when pressed. While not completely silent, it offers a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. The Duck switch, on the other hand, is described as having a clean and crispy sound profile, with a more subtle tactile typing experience. Both switches fall under the category of neutral switches, which means they have a moderate actuation force requirement and sound profile, suitable for most intents and purposes.
In terms of feel, the Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a mild typing experience, providing a more gentle feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. It also has a snappy quality, which means it is super responsive and gives a more alive typing experience. The switch is also described as buttery and polished, indicating a smooth and fluid keystroke experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the Duck switch also offers a mild typing experience with a smooth and fluid keystroke. It provides a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation, thanks to its buttery and polished characteristics.
Considering all the available information, both switches offer subjective qualities that make them appealing options for different preferences. The Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch provides a unique sound profile with a clacky bottom-out sound and a more subdued, whisper-quiet topping-out sound. Its type feel is described as silky smooth, providing a safe middle-ground experience. The Duck switch, on the other hand, offers a more subtle tactile typing experience with a clean and crispy sound profile. It also provides a safe middle-ground type feel that is smooth and fluid. While they may have their own distinctive characteristics, both switches fall under the category of neutral switches, making them suitable for various typing needs. Whether you prefer the innovative sound profile of the Semi-Silent Linear or the more subtle tactile experience of the Duck, you can expect similar results in terms of actuation force requirement and sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference and the desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a linear switch with a medium bottom out force, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear is an excellent choice. It offers a unique semi-silent experience with a whisper-quiet topping-out sound and a clacky bottom-out sound. This switch has a silky smooth type feel without being over-polished. It is best suited for those who appreciate a more subdued sound when typing.
On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a medium bottom out force, the SP-Star Duck is perfect for you. It provides a gentle tactility while typing, with a clean and crispy sound profile. This switch offers a more subtle tactile typing experience that is ideal for those who prefer a less pronounced tactile feedback.
Both switches have a neutral sound profile and a moderate actuation force requirement, making them suitable for most usage scenarios. They also share similar mild and buttery qualities in terms of feel, providing a gentle and smooth typing experience. Additionally, the Semi-Silent Linear has a snappy characteristic, which adds a touch of responsiveness to the typing experience.
Ultimately, the decision between the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear and the SP-Star Duck will depend on your personal preference for sound and tactile feedback. Whether you prefer a more subdued and whisper-quiet typing experience or a gentle and subtle tactile feedback, both switches offer a pleasant typing experience.