SP-Star Duck vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Duck and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the SP-Star Duck tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it's clear that both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Duck switch provides a gentle tactility and a clean, crispy sound profile, making it ideal for those seeking a more subtle typing experience. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° switch by Gateron boasts revolutionary silent typing capabilities with its innovative self-padding design and dual-rail structure, offering unparalleled smoothness, stability, and noise reduction. While the Duck switch is praised for its mild and buttery feel, the Zero Degree 0° switch focuses on delivering a soft, elastic feel that absorbs sound. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
58g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Duck and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° are both made of polycarbonate, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffness. This allows for a more clear and resonant sound when typing on these switches. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that utilize RGB lighting, enhancing the visual aesthetic of the keyboard. However, while both switches share the same material for their top housings, the bottom housings differ. The Duck features a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the Zero Degree 0° utilizes a nylon bottom housing.
The nylon bottom housing of the Gateron Zero Degree 0° provides a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound compared to polycarbonate. This results in a duller and rounder sound when pressing down on the switch, complementing the stiffer top polycarbonate housing. In contrast, the Duck's polycarbonate bottom housing continues the trend of creating a sharper and crisper sound when typing, contributing to an overall consistent sound profile throughout the keystroke. Despite the differences in the bottom housing material, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with their unique sound profiles.
Ultimately, the choice between the SP-Star Duck and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° comes down to personal preference in terms of sound and feel. The polycarbonate top housing of both switches creates a distinctive typing experience with a sharper and crisper sound profile, ideal for those who prefer a more resonant keystroke. However, the decision between the Duck's polycarbonate bottom housing or the Zero Degree 0°'s nylon bottom housing will depend on whether you prefer a fuller sound with a deeper tone or a more consistent sound profile with a stiffer feel. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences in typing sound and feel, making them both excellent choices for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Duck tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it is evident that they have different characteristics in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Duck has a bottom out force of 58 grams, which is considered medium, while the actuation force is not specified. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° has an actuation force of 45 grams, indicating a lighter touch needed to trigger a keystroke, however, the bottom out force is unknown. It is worth noting that the Duck provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force, whereas the Zero Degree 0° offers a lighter actuation force which can be preferred for longer typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding typing feel and force sensitivity.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the SP-Star Duck tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it is evident that the Duck has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the Zero Degree 0° which has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with the Duck being slightly on the longer side and the Zero Degree 0° on the shorter side. Gamers may prefer the shorter travel distance of the Zero Degree 0° for faster response times, while those who appreciate a more substantial keypress may lean towards the Duck with its longer travel distance. Overall, while one is shorter and one is longer, both switches offer similar results in terms of tactile feedback and performance.
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 Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch provides a clean and crispy sound profile, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users in various environments. On the other hand, information on the sound profile of the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is not available. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Duck tactile switch offers a mild and buttery typing experience that is smooth and approachable to most users. The polished finish of the Duck switch results in reduced friction and a sleek typing sensation. In contrast, there is no specific information available on the feel of the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch.
In conclusion, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch is known for its gentle tactility, clean sound profile, and smooth typing experience, making it a great choice for those looking for a subtle tactile typing experience. While information on the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is limited in terms of sound and feel, it is clear that both switches are designed to provide a unique typing experience. Depending on your preferences, choosing either switch would result in a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, 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 revolutionary silent typing experience with unparalleled smoothness and stability, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for tactility, sound profile, and typing feel. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences, so choose the one that best suits your typing style and needs.
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