Bsun Pine vs. SP-Star Meteor White
An in-depth look at the Bsun Pine and the SP-Star Meteor White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Bsun Pine tactile switch to the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch, it's clear that they offer vastly different typing experiences. The Pine switch is known for its sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out, making it a favorite for those who prefer direct and snappy tactility. On the other hand, the Meteor White switch provides a more subdued and gentle typing experience, with easy-to-push keys and a soft sound profile. While the Pine switch is categorized as 'Accented' and 'Sharp', the Meteor White switch is categorized as 'Neutral' and 'Mild'. Both switches have their own unique qualities that may appeal to different preferences. 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
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
57g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Bsun Pine and the SP-Star Meteor White both feature nylon bottom housings, which are known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic absorbing more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon housings. However, they differ in their top housings, with the Pine utilizing polycarbonate while the Meteor White uses nylon. The Pine's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer plastic material, which leads to a clearer and more resonant sound. On the other hand, the Meteor White's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, enhancing the typing experience with a different auditory experience compared to the Pine.
Both the Bsun Pine and the SP-Star Meteor White highlight the impact housing materials have on the sound profiles of mechanical switches. While the Pine excels in creating a sharp and clear sound with its polycarbonate top housing, the Meteor White offers a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon top housing. When it comes to the bottom housings, both switches utilize nylon, resulting in a consistent deep and full sound profile across the board. The split between top and bottom housing materials allows for a balanced typing experience, with the bottom housing influencing the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing a key.
In conclusion, the choice between the Bsun Pine and the SP-Star Meteor White ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile. While the Pine offers a sharper, higher-pitched sound with its polycarbonate top housing, the Meteor White provides a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon top housing. Both switches share the benefits of nylon bottom housings, creating a consistent deep and full sound experience. Whether you prefer a crisper and resonant sound or a duller and rounder sound, both switches offer unique auditory experiences based on their housing materials.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Bsun Pine tactile switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch differ in weight, with the Pine being heavier and the Meteor White being lighter. The Pine has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. On the other hand, the Meteor White has an unknown actuation force but a bottom out force of 57 grams, making it a medium-light option. The Pine offers a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Meteor White allows for a lighter touch ideal for longer typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences for typing feedback and weight.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Bsun Pine tactile switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch, it is evident that the Pine has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm while the Meteor White has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Pine's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times, while the Meteor White's longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying depth for some users. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, with the Pine feeling more abrupt and the Meteor White offering a slightly more extended press. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Bsun Pine has an MSRP of $4.70 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Pine for $3.70.
The SP-Star Meteor White has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor White for $5.00.
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 BSUN Pine tactile switch is known for its sharp and distinct click, providing a satisfying auditory experience for typists who enjoy a pronounced tactile feedback. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch offers a more subdued sound profile, characterized by a gentle and soft pitter-patter noise when typing. While the Pine switch offers a more direct and crisp sound, the Meteor White switch provides a milder and quieter typing experience, making it suitable for quieter environments.
In terms of feel, the BSUN Pine tactile switch is described as invigorating and sharp, offering a strong and crisp tactile bump that gives a responsive and immersive typing sensation. The long pole stem of the Pine switch contributes to a quick bottom-out, adding to the overall tactile experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch is described as mild and polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The gentle actuation force of the Meteor White switch makes it easy to push, offering a comfortable typing experience for users who prefer a softer touch.
Overall, the BSUN Pine tactile switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch offer contrasting qualities in both sound and feel. While the Pine switch excels in providing a sharp and direct tactile feedback with a distinct click sound, the Meteor White switch offers a gentler and quieter typing experience with a smooth and refined feel. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, typists can choose between the sharp tactility of the Pine switch or the soft and polished typing experience of the Meteor White switch to enhance their overall typing comfort and satisfaction.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch with a distinct and strong tactile feedback, the BSUN Pine tactile switch would be the way to go. With its sharp tactile bump and quick bottom-out, it is ideal for those who prefer a direct and no-nonsense typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a softer and more gentle typing experience, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch would be a better choice. Its light bottom-out force and soft sound profile make it a great option for a more subdued typing experience. Ultimately, your choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for tactile feedback and typing feel.
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