Kailh Box White vs. SP-Star Meteor Orange

Overview

If you're in the market for a mechanical keyboard switch, you may find yourself considering the Kailh Box White, a clicky switch, and the SP-Star Meteor Orange, a tactile switch. Both switches offer distinct advantages, catering to different preferences and typing styles. The Box White is renowned for its satisfying click and maximum audio feedback, providing a "stepping on autumn leaves"-like crunch and accented tactility. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange offers a soft and seductive tactility, delivering a gentle typing experience with a neutral sound profile. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities to help you decide which switch is best suited for your needs.

By the numbers

Kailh Box White Clicky

SP-Star Meteor Orange Tactile

$2.76 per 10

$5.50

$5.00 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

When comparing the housing materials of the Kailh Box White and the SP-Star Meteor Orange, it is evident that they differ in terms of the materials used. The Box White features a polycarbonate top housing, while the Meteor Orange utilizes a nylon top housing. This distinction in materials leads to noticeable differences in sound profiles. The polycarbonate top housing of the Box White creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound, thanks to its stiffer and more resonant nature. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Meteor Orange produces a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer composition, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound.

In terms of the bottom housing, both the Box White and the Meteor Orange employ nylon as the material of choice. As a result, they share similar qualities when it comes to sound profile. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of these switches elicits a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to its ability to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics. The bottom-out sound and feel of the switches are influenced by the qualities of the nylon bottom housing, which contributes to the overall typing experience.

While the top and bottom housings differ between the Box White and the Meteor Orange, it is important to note that the qualities brought by each housing material will impact different aspects of the switch. Pressing down on the switch will result in the qualities of the bottom housing being felt, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the sound when releasing a key will be more influenced by the properties of the top housing. Therefore, despite utilizing different materials, both switches provide a unique and distinct typing experience, with each housing playing a role in the overall sound profile.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Kailh Box White clicky switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, there are notable similarities and differences. The Box White has an actuation force of 50 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, which is considered medium in terms of weight. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange's actuation force is unknown, while its bottom out force is 57 grams, categorizing it as medium-light.

Considering the actuation force, the Box White requires a consistent pressure of 50 grams to trigger a keystroke, while the Meteor Orange's exact force remains unknown. However, the presence of a tactile switch suggests that the Meteor Orange would likely have a noticeable actuation force, providing feedback to the user when a keystroke is registered.

In terms of the bottom out force, the Box White requires a weight of 60 grams to reach the point of bottoming out, indicating a slightly heavier typing experience. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange's bottom out force is slightly lighter at 57 grams, making it more suitable for individuals who prefer a lighter keystroke feel.

Considering the weight aspect, individuals seeking a lighter typing experience may favor the Meteor Orange as it allows for longer periods of comfortable typing, making it an ideal choice for work or extended gaming sessions. Conversely, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel might lean towards the Box White's slightly heavier actuation and bottom out forces.

Overall, while the exact actuation force of the Meteor Orange remains unknown, both switches offer a medium-weight typing experience. However, the Meteor Orange tends towards a lighter feel in terms of bottom out force, while the Box White provides a slightly heavier typing experience. As a result, users can make their selection based on their personal preferences and typing requirements.

Travel distance

The travel distance of the Kailh Box White clicky switch is 3.6 mm, while the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that the Meteor Orange has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Box White. The 4.0mm travel distance of the Meteor Orange is more traditional, providing a familiar depth when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the Box White's shorter 3.6 mm travel distance appeals to gamers who value faster response times. The shorter travel distance allows for quicker key presses, which can be beneficial in gaming scenarios. However, some individuals may find the shorter travel distance to feel too abrupt. If you prefer a more responsive typing experience, the Box White would be a suitable choice. However, if you prefer a deeper and more substantial keypress, the Meteor Orange's longer travel distance would be a better option for you. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the specific needs and preferences of the user.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The Kailh Box White clicky switch is best known for its maximum audio feedback. When typing on the Box White, users often describe a sound similar to crunching autumn leaves, which creates a resonant and high-pitched auditory experience. The sound profile is clean, sharp, and crisp, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a more immersive and intense typing sound. The feel of the Box White is described as polished, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.

On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch is known for its gentle and soft tactility. Typing on the Meteor Orange switches offers a more approachable and mild typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The sound profile is described as neutral, with a moderate actuation force requirement. The switch produces a deep and satisfying thocky sound when pressed and released, reminiscent of a deep "thud" or a soft "knock." Similar to the Box White, the Meteor Orange switch also features a polished finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel.

In conclusion, the Kailh Box White clicky switch provides a unique and immersive auditory experience with its resonant and high-pitched sound profile, giving users the sensation of stepping on autumn leaves. The feel of the Box White is polished, resulting in a sleek and refined typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch offers a gentle and soft tactility, with a thocky sound profile that provides a deep and satisfying typing experience. Both switches feature a polished finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel. While they provide different subjective qualities, users can expect similar results in terms of a polished typing experience with reduced friction. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference for sound and tactility.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you desire maximum audio feedback and enjoy a clicky switch with medium bottom out force, the Kailh Box White switch would be a great choice for you. With its "stepping on autumn leaves"-like crunch and accented tactility, typing on these switches will provide an immersive auditory experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a more gentle and soft tactility with a medium-light bottom out force, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch would suit you well. These switches offer a neutral sound profile and a polished finish for a sleek typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on your preference for clicky feedback or a more gentle tactile experience, as well as the desired sound and feel.

Mentioned in this article

Kailh Box White Clicky

$2.76 per 10

Learn more

SP-Star Meteor Orange Tactile

$5.50

$5.00 per 10

Learn more