SP-Star Duck vs. TTC Speed Silver
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Duck and the TTC Speed Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboards, the choice of switch is vital to achieving the desired typing experience. Two popular options to consider are the SP-Star Duck, a tactile switch, and the TTC Speed Silver, a linear switch. The Duck switches are known for providing a subtle tactile typing experience with a clean and crispy sound profile. They offer a gentle tactility and are categorized as "Neutral", "Mild", "Buttery", and "Polished". On the other hand, the Speed Silver switches are perfect for those who value a fast and precise typing experience. These linear switches have a light-medium level of resistance and a pristine sound profile. With a reduced travel distance, they allow for quick and effortless actuation. Categorically, they fall under "Neutral", "Mild", and "Polished". However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.08 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Duck and the TTC Speed Silver switches have both similarities and differences. Both switches utilize polycarbonate in their top housings, which leads to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a relatively stiffer plastic, creating a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is especially useful for switches that incorporate RGB lighting. Therefore, users can expect similar sound profiles and aesthetic benefits from the polycarbonate top housing of both switches.
However, when it comes to the bottom housings, the Duck uses polycarbonate while the Speed Silver employs nylon. The polycarbonate bottom housing of the Duck switch continues to contribute to a sharper and crisper sound, enhancing the overall sound profile. Conversely, the nylon bottom housing of the Speed Silver produces a deeper and fuller sound due to the softer nature of the material. Nylon is known for absorbing more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, while both housing materials impact the sound profile, they do so in distinct ways, with polycarbonate emphasizing sharpness and crispness and nylon emphasizing depth and fullness.
It is important to note that the top and bottom housings of a switch play different roles in sound and feel. The qualities brought by each housing material will be split between the top and bottom of the switch. When you press down on a switch, you will feel the impact of the bottom housing, as it influences the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing primarily impacts the sound that occurs when you release a key. Therefore, the choice of housing material for both the top and bottom housing in each switch will contribute to the overall typing experience, with the Duck potentially offering a sharper and crisper pressing sensation and the Speed Silver delivering a deeper and fuller sound when actuating keys.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Duck tactile switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch, there are some notable differences. The actuation force of the Duck switch is unavailable, while the Speed Silver switch requires 45 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Duck switch has a 58-gram requirement, which can be considered medium, while the Speed Silver switch has a slightly lighter bottom out force of 55 grams, categorized as medium-light.
Considering weight, some individuals may prefer a lighter switch for extended typing sessions or prolonged gaming sessions. Lighter switches provide ease of actuation and can prevent finger fatigue during long periods of use. In this case, the Speed Silver switch with its lighter actuation force may be more suitable for those seeking a lighter typing experience. However, some users may prefer a heavier push feel for a more substantial typing experience. These individuals may gravitate towards the Duck switch, as its bottom out force is slightly heavier than that of the Speed Silver switch.
It should be noted that while the actuation and bottom out forces of these switches differ, they both fall within the medium range. Therefore, in terms of actuation and typing experience, users can expect relatively similar results from both the Duck and Speed Silver switches. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preferences and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the SP-Star Duck tactile switch is 4.0mm, while the TTC Speed Silver linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4mm. In terms of length, the Duck switch has a slightly longer travel distance. This means that when pressing down on a key with the Duck switch, you will feel a slightly greater distance compared to the Speed Silver switch. The Duck switch's 4.0mm travel distance is more aligned with the traditional standard, while the Speed Silver's 3.4mm falls on the shallower side. Gamers, who prioritize faster response times, tend to prefer shorter travel distances. For such individuals, the Speed Silver switch would be a suitable choice. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial and deeper feel when typing may lean towards the Duck switch's longer travel distance. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches depends on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness.
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 TTC Speed Silver has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Speed Silver for $4.58.
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, both the SP-Star Duck tactile switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch have a neutral sound profile. This means that they have a moderate level of actuation force requirement and produce a moderate sound. These switches are suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user and whether you use them at home or at work. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Duck tactile switch offers a mild and gentle typing experience. It falls into the category of switches with a more subtle tactile sensation. The Duck switch provides a buttery and polished feel, indicating a smooth and refined typing experience. This is achieved through either the materials used or factory lubrication, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Speed Silver linear switch also offers a mild typing experience, but lacks the specific descriptors of being buttery or polished.
Considering the available information, both the SP-Star Duck and the TTC Speed Silver switches provide a relatively neutral sound profile. However, the Duck switch offers a more subtle and gentle tactile typing experience with a clean and crispy sound. It provides a buttery and polished feel, which indicates a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction. On the other hand, the Speed Silver switch offers a mild typing experience but lacks the specific tactile descriptors mentioned for the Duck switch. In terms of sound and feel, while there might be similarities between these switches, the Duck switch is likely to provide a more unique and nuanced typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches would depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing speed.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a more subtle tactile typing experience, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch is the perfect choice for you. These switches provide a gentle tactility when typing, resulting in a clean and crispy sound profile. With a bottom out force of 58 grams, these switches offer a medium level of resistance that suits most intents and purposes. Additionally, the Duck switch is described as mild, buttery, and polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you value a fast and precise typing experience, the TTC Speed Silver linear switch is the way to go. With a bottom out force of 55 grams, these switches have a medium-light level of resistance and allow for quick and effortless actuation. Despite being a linear switch, the Speed Silver still offers a neutral sound profile, suitable for both beginners and advanced users. In terms of feel, the Speed Silver switch is mild and polished, ensuring a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the choice between the SP-Star Duck tactile switch and the TTC Speed Silver linear switch depends on your preferences and the typing experience you desire. If you prefer a more subtle tactile experience with a clean and crispy sound profile, go for the Duck switch. However, if you prioritize speed and precision in your typing, the Speed Silver switch is the better option. Ultimately, both switches offer a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making them suitable for most intents and purposes.
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