SP-Star Duck vs. Gateron Type A
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Duck and the Gateron Type A switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the SP-Star Duck and the Gateron Type A are two popular options to explore. The Duck switch offers a subtle tactile typing experience with gentle tactility and a clean, crispy sound profile. On the other hand, the Type A switch from Gateron introduces innovative design elements such as modified travel distances and factory lubing techniques, catering to those seeking a medium-weight switch with a sound signature leaning toward the deeper side of the spectrum. While the Duck switch provides a buttery and polished typing experience, the Type A offers a subdued and neutral feel. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
55g
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
20mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the SP-Star Duck and the Gateron Type A, it is evident that they utilize different plastics for their top and bottom housings. The Duck's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile, conducive to RGB lighting due to its translucency. On the other hand, the Type A's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon absorbs more sound, creating a rounder tone. Both switches excel in delivering unique sound profiles, but the choice between polycarbonate and nylon depends on personal preference for pitch and resonance.
Moving on to the bottom housings, the Duck's polycarbonate bottom housing mirrors the qualities of its top housing, contributing to a clear and resonant sound profile with a sharper pitch. In contrast, the Type A's nylon bottom housing complements its top housing by absorbing more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder tone. This difference in bottom housing material further emphasizes the distinct sound profiles of each switch. Whether one prefers a crisper and higher-pitched sound or a deeper and fuller sound, the choice between the SP-Star Duck and the Gateron Type A offers a unique audio experience.
Considering the impact of the housing materials on the overall sound of the switches, it is important to note that the top and bottom housings play different roles in determining the sound profile. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. Therefore, the use of polycarbonate and nylon in the top and bottom housings of the SP-Star Duck and Gateron Type A contributes to their distinct sound profiles, offering users the ability to choose based on their preference for pitch, resonance, and overall typing experience. Ultimately, both switches deliver high-quality performance, with the choice between them coming down to personal sound preferences and typing feel.
Weight
The SP-Star Duck tactile switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch both have medium actuation forces, with the Duck having an actuation force of None grams and the Type A having an actuation force of 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Duck is heavier with a bottom out force of 58 grams compared to the Type A's 55 grams. This means that the Duck will provide a slightly more substantial typing experience due to the heavier bottom out force. For those who prefer a lighter typing feel, the Type A may be a better option due to its lower bottom out force. Overall, both switches offer a medium actuation force which will provide a balanced typing experience, but the Duck may be more suited for those who prefer a heavier feel while typing.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the SP-Star Duck and the Gateron Type A linear switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same amount of distance between the top and bottom of the switch. Both switches provide a consistent tactile feedback and smooth linear feel, making them suitable options for users who prefer a shorter travel distance in their mechanical keyboards. In terms of travel distance, the SP-Star Duck and the Gateron Type A linear switch offer similar results, providing a comfortable typing experience for users looking for a shorter travel distance.
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 Gateron Type A comes in at $4.70 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 comparing the sound qualities of the SP-Star Duck tactile switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch, it is evident that the Duck switch offers a clean and crispy sound profile, perfect for those who prefer a subtle tactile typing experience. On the other hand, the Type A switch leans towards the deeper side of the sound spectrum with a more subdued sound signature, making it suitable for individuals looking for a switch that is not completely silent but offers a more muted sound when compared to most switches. Ultimately, the sound produced by both switches will also be influenced by other factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps, so individual preferences may vary.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch is known for providing a mild and buttery typing experience, with qualities that fall within a safe, middle-ground zone appealing to most users. Described as polished, these switches offer a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Although information specific to the feel of the Gateron Type A linear switch is not available, based on the descriptions provided, it can be inferred that the Type A switch may offer a different typing experience compared to the Duck switch due to its distinct sound signature and characteristics.
In conclusion, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch and the Gateron Type A linear switch each offer unique subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Duck switch provides a clean and crispy sound profile along with a mild and buttery typing experience, the Type A switch leans towards a deeper sound spectrum with a more subdued sound signature. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience. It is important to consider both personal preferences and the overall typing setup, including keyboard and keycaps, when selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch for your needs.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you're looking for a more subtle tactile typing experience with a clean and crispy sound profile, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a deeper sound profile and a medium-light bottom out force, the Gateron Type A linear switch would suit your preferences better. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize a gentle tactility and buttery feel with the Duck switch or a deeper sound signature and factory-lubed smoothness with the Type A switch. Consider your typing style and preferences to determine which switch would enhance your overall typing experience.
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