SP-Star Duck vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Duck and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in search of a mechanical keyboard switch that offers a tactile typing experience, two excellent options to consider are the SP-Star Duck and the KTT Strawberry switches. The Duck switches are known for providing a more subtle tactile feedback, offering a gentle tactility that enhances your typing experience. Additionally, the clean and crispy sound profile of the Duck switches adds to their appeal. On the other hand, the Strawberry switches are loved for their smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance. With attractive pink and clear housings, these switches offer a frictionless typing experience that is both low-pitched and silky. While these general pointers can assist you in making an initial decision, let's delve deeper beyond these broad descriptions to help you determine which switch is best suited to your specific needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 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
Gold plated
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Duck and the KTT Strawberry, both made of polycarbonate, share several similarities. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for those seeking a clear and resonant sound while typing. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate allows for the use of RGB lighting, adding a visually appealing element to the overall aesthetic of the keyboards. Therefore, whether it is the top housing or the bottom housing, both the Duck and the Strawberry will provide similar results in terms of sound profile and compatibility with RGB lighting.
Despite their similarities, it is important to note that the distribution of the housing materials differs between the Duck and the Strawberry. In the Duck keyboard, the polycarbonate material is utilized in both the top and bottom housing. As a result, the qualities of polycarbonate, such as the clear and resonant sound, will be evenly distributed throughout the keyboard. Conversely, in the Strawberry keyboard, the polycarbonate material is also utilized in both the top and bottom housing, but the impact of each housing differs. The bottom housing plays a larger role in determining the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the keys, while the top housing has more influence on the sound produced when releasing a key.
In conclusion, while both the SP-Star Duck and the KTT Strawberry utilize polycarbonate in their housing materials, the way in which the material is distributed in each keyboard leads to slightly different effects. However, the overall sound profile and aesthetic appeal remain similar due to the similar characteristics of polycarbonate. Whether it is the sharp and crisp sound or the compatibility with RGB lighting, both keyboards offer a satisfying typing experience for those seeking these qualities.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Duck tactile switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The actuation force of the Duck switch is not available, while the Strawberry switch requires a gentle actuation force of 43 grams. As for the bottom out force, the Duck switch has a medium 58-gram bottom out force, while the Strawberry switch has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 62 grams.
The variation in actuation force between the two switches indicates that the Strawberry switch will require a lighter touch to trigger a keystroke compared to the Duck switch, which is crucial for those seeking a more responsive typing experience. However, the bottom out force for both switches falls within the medium range, providing a satisfying typing feel for users who prefer a substantial keystroke without excessive force.
Considering weight as a factor, the lighter actuation force of the Strawberry switch may be advantageous for prolonged typing sessions or extended gaming sessions, reducing fatigue and promoting comfort. On the other hand, individuals desiring a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience may find the Duck switch to be a better option with its slightly heavier bottom out force.
Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preferences and the intended usage. The SP-Star Duck tactile switch offers a solid bottom out force but lacks information regarding its actuation force, while the KTT Strawberry linear switch provides a lighter actuation force paired with a slightly heavier bottom out force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch is a crucial factor to consider when it comes to keyboard switches. The travel distance refers to the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom, which is the distance you feel when you press down on a key. In the case of the SP-Star Duck tactile switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, both switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches will result in a similar tactile experience. Therefore, the travel distance of these switches can be considered equal, providing users with the same level of comfort and feedback.
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 KTT Strawberry comes in at $4.91 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
When it comes to sound, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offers a clean and crispy profile. As a neutral switch, it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes. However, it's important to note that the sound of the switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry linear switch provides a low-pitched sound. This means that it has a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Overall, if you prefer a more subtle and clean sound, the Duck would be a great choice, while the Strawberry offers a lower-pitched tone.
When it comes to feel, the Duck tactile switch provides a mild and gentle typing experience. It falls within a safe middle-ground zone, offering an approachable feel for most users. It is also described as buttery and polished, implying a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. With reduced friction and smooth key travel, it ensures a sleek typing sensation. Similarly, the KTT Strawberry linear switch offers a frictionless and silky feel. It provides an exceptionally smooth typing experience, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Like the Duck, the Strawberry switch is also described as buttery and polished, indicating reduced friction and a refined finish. Both switches prioritize a smooth and effortless typing experience, ensuring an enjoyable feel for users.
Considering all the available information, the Duck tactile switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch have distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Duck offers a clean and crispy sound with a moderate profile, while the Strawberry provides a low-pitched, bass-heavy tone. In terms of feel, the Duck switch offers a mild and gentle typing experience with a buttery and polished sensation. On the other hand, the Strawberry switch delivers a frictionless and silky feel with a similar buttery and polished experience. Both switches prioritize smoothness and a seamless typing sensation. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the Duck for a more subtle tactile experience or the Strawberry for a smooth linear one. Keep in mind that the overall sound and feel can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
Conclusion
In summary, if you're looking for a more subtle tactile typing experience, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch is perfect for you. It offers a gentle tactility when typing and has a clean and crispy sound profile. With a moderate actuation force requirement, the Duck switch is suitable for both beginners and advanced users, whether you plan to use it at home or work. The Duck switch also provides a mild and buttery feel, resulting in a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. Additionally, it has a polished finish, reducing friction and ensuring smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth actuation, comfortable feel, and reliable performance, the KTT Strawberry linear switch is the way to go. With a slightly higher bottom out force compared to the Duck, the Strawberry offers a medium feel. It produces a low-pitched and mellow sound, giving it a more bass-heavy tone. The Strawberry switch provides a frictionless and silky typing experience, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction when pressing the keys. Similar to the Duck, it also has a buttery and polished feel, resulting in a seamless and effortless typing sensation.
Ultimately, the choice between the SP-Star Duck tactile switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch depends on your personal preference for tactility, sound, and feel. Whether you prioritize a gentle tactile typing experience or a smooth linear actuation, both switches offer their own advantages. Consider your typing preferences and the environment in which you will be using them to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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