Outemu Crystal vs. SP-Star Meteor Orange

Overview

When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Crystal and the SP-Star Meteor Orange. The Outemu Crystal is a linear switch that stands out for its unique typing experience. With a fairly elastic feel and medium-light weight, this switch provides a smooth and consistent keystroke. In addition, the Crystal offers a neutral sound profile, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange is a tactile switch known for its gentle tactility. The switches have a soft and seductive tactile feedback, giving typists a satisfying response with each keystroke. Similar to the Crystal, the Meteor Orange also boasts a neutral sound profile. However, beyond these generalities, let's dive deeper into the specifics of each switch so you can make an informed decision on which one is best suited for you.

By the numbers

Outemu Crystal Linear

SP-Star Meteor Orange Tactile

$3.40 per 10

$5.50

$5.00 per 10

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Housing materials

The housing materials of the Outemu Crystal and the SP-Star Meteor Orange differ significantly. The Crystal utilizes polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housings, while the Meteor Orange incorporates nylon for both. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, resulting in a sharper, crisper sound profile. This lends itself well to creating a clear and resonant sound when pressing down on keys. In contrast, nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Typing on switches with nylon housing provides a duller and rounder sound experience.

While the Crystal and Meteor Orange have different housing materials, they share a common trait in that they both utilize translucent materials. This makes them suitable choices for switches intended to utilize RGB lighting. The polycarbonate top housing of the Crystal allows the light to pass through, creating an aesthetically pleasing visual effect. Similarly, the translucent nature of the Meteor Orange's nylon housing allows for beautiful lighting displays.

When it comes to the overall sound experience, the housing materials play different roles. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the keys. Therefore, in switches where the top and bottom housings differ, like the Crystal and Meteor Orange, the bottom housing material will dominate the overall sound experience during key presses. On the other hand, the top housing material has more influence on the sound when releasing a key. This means that even though the Crystal and Meteor Orange have different housing materials for their top and bottom, the sound during key release will be similar due to their shared translucent properties.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, it is clear that both switches fall under the category of medium-light in terms of force. The Outemu Crystal has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 55 grams, while the specific actuation force for the SP-Star Meteor Orange is unavailable. However, its bottom out force is slightly higher at 57 grams.

For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Outemu Crystal would be a suitable choice, as its actuation and bottom out forces are slightly lower than the SP-Star Meteor Orange. This lighter force can allow for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue, making it ideal for work or gaming purposes. On the other hand, individuals who prefer a bit more resistance and a more substantial typing feel may opt for the SP-Star Meteor Orange. Although the actuation force is unknown, the higher bottom out force of 57 grams suggests a slightly heavier typing experience compared to the Outemu Crystal.

Ultimately, both switches offer a medium-light typing experience, and users can expect similar results in terms of force required for typing. The decision between the two would ultimately come down to individual preferences and the desired typing experience. Whether one prefers a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or a slightly heavier push for a more substantial feel, both the Outemu Crystal and SP-Star Meteor Orange switches can cater to these preferences.

Travel distance

The travel distance of a switch is an important factor to consider when comparing and contrasting different types. In the case of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, both switches have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, you can expect similar results from both the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Outemu Crystal linear switch has a unique acoustic signature that sets it apart from other switches. It is described as "chirpy," which means it has a slight squeak when pressed. Additionally, it has a high-pitched sound profile that produces a sharp and crisp sound. This makes it a suitable choice for those who prefer a more lively and vibrant sound while typing. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile. It has a moderate sound profile that is not too rich or bassy, making it appropriate for various purposes. If you prefer a deep and satisfying sound, the Meteor Orange switch is described as "thocky," producing a deep "thud" or a soft "knock" when pressed and released. Overall, the Crystal switch provides a unique and lively sound experience, while the Meteor Orange switch offers a more neutral and satisfying thocky sound.

When it comes to feel, the Outemu Crystal linear switch has a fairly elastic type feel. It offers a medium-light weight, providing a unique and linear typing experience. The Crystal switch is also described as "polished," which means it has a smooth and refined finish. This results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch is described as "mild," offering a gentle typing experience. It falls in a safe middle-ground zone, making it approachable to most users. Similar to the Crystal switch, the Meteor Orange switch is also described as "polished," ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Overall, the Crystal switch offers a more elastic and medium-light typing experience, while the Meteor Orange switch provides a safe and gentle typing experience.

Considering the available information, the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch offer different subjective qualities. The Crystal switch has a unique and chirpy sound with a high-pitched profile. Its feel is characterized by an elastic type feel and medium-light weight, resulting in a distinctive linear typing experience. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange switch provides a more neutral sound profile, suitable for various purposes. Its feel is described as mild, offering a gentle typing experience. Both switches share the characteristic of a polished finish, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel. Therefore, if you are looking for a lively and vibrant sound with a unique typing experience, the Crystal switch is an excellent choice. However, if you prefer a neutral sound profile with a gentle typing experience, the Meteor Orange switch would be a suitable option.

Conclusion

In closing, if you are looking for a unique, linear typing experience with a medium-light weight, then the Outemu Crystal linear switch is the way to go. These switches have a fairly elastic feel and provide a neutral sound profile. On the other hand, if you prefer a gentle and seductive typing experience with a slightly higher bottom out force, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch is the better option. These switches offer a soft and satisfying tactility, along with a neutral sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to your personal preference for typing feel and sound. So, consider these factors carefully and choose the switch that best suits your needs.

Mentioned in this article

Outemu Crystal Linear

$3.40 per 10

Learn more

SP-Star Meteor Orange Tactile

$5.50

$5.00 per 10

Learn more