TTC Flaming Purple vs. SP-Star Meteor Orange
An in-depth look at the TTC Flaming Purple and the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, it is clear that each offers unique characteristics to consider. The Flaming Purple stands out for its resonant and slightly bassier sound profile, making each keystroke engaging and enjoyable. With a feathery touch and an easy-to-press actuation of just 47g, it is ideal for both enthusiasts and daily typists alike. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange switch is praised for its gentle and seductive tactility, providing a soft and neutral typing experience. While the Flaming Purple is categorized as 'Bassy' and 'Low-pitched', the Meteor Orange is described as 'Thocky' and 'Polished'. However, let's dive a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you decide on the best switch for your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
42g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
47g
Bottom-out force
57g
Pre-travel
1.60 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POK
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
23mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the TTC Flaming Purple and the SP-Star Meteor Orange, it is clear that both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing. Nylon is known for providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon bottom housings. Therefore, both the Flaming Purple and the Meteor Orange offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound when it comes to their bottom housings.
On the other hand, the Flaming Purple features a polycarbonate top housing, whereas the Meteor Orange utilizes nylon for its top housing. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for switches that prioritize clarity and resonance. In contrast, nylon top housings produce a deeper and fuller sound profile, resulting in a sound that is more muffled and rounder compared to polycarbonate. Therefore, the top housing material used in the Flaming Purple and the Meteor Orange significantly impacts the sound produced by the switches.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in the TTC Flaming Purple and the SP-Star Meteor Orange plays a crucial role in determining the auditory experience of typing on these switches. While both switches share a nylon bottom housing that provides a deep and full sound profile, they differ in their top housing materials. The Flaming Purple's polycarbonate top housing emphasizes clarity and resonance, while the Meteor Orange's nylon top housing offers a more muffled and rounder sound. Whether you prefer a sharper, crisper sound or a deeper, fuller sound, the housing materials of these switches cater to different sound preferences and typing experiences.
Weight
The TTC Flaming Purple linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 42 grams compared to the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, which has an unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Flaming Purple requires 47 grams while the Meteor Orange switch has a heavier bottom out force of 57 grams. This means that the Flaming Purple switch is lighter overall, making it a good choice for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange switch offers a slightly heavier typing experience, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more substantial keystroke feel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on the user's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The TTC Flaming Purple linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm, while the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In this case, the Flaming Purple has the shorter travel distance compared to the Meteor Orange. The Flaming Purple's 3.6 mm travel distance may provide a quicker response time, making it popular among gamers who prefer faster typing or gaming experiences. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange's 4 mm travel distance offers a slightly deeper feel, which some users may find more comfortable for prolonged typing sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing experience. Both switches, however, will provide satisfactory results depending on individual needs and preferences.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Flaming Purple has an MSRP of $8.30 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Flaming Purple for $4.30.
The SP-Star Meteor Orange has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor Orange 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
In terms of sound, the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch is characterized by a bassy and low-pitched profile, offering a rich and resonant typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch shines with its neutral sound profile, providing a soft and thocky auditory feedback. Depending on personal preferences, the Flaming Purple switch may appeal to those who enjoy a deeper and more engaging sound, while the Meteor Orange switch offers a gentler and more versatile option.
When it comes to feel, the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch is known for its feathery and easy-to-press nature, making typing effortless and comfortable for extended periods. In contrast, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, striking a balance between comfort and refinement. Both switches provide a smooth and pleasant typing feel, catering to different preferences in terms of tactile feedback and key resistance.
Overall, the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Flaming Purple switch excels in its bassy and feathery characteristics, the Meteor Orange switch stands out with its neutral and polished profile. Whether you prioritize a rich sound experience or a gentle typing feel, both switches provide unique options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound profile and typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the TTC Flaming Purple linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, consider your typing preferences and needs. If you prioritize a light and feathery typing experience with a touch of poppy undertones, the Flaming Purple may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you appreciate a gentle and polished tactile feedback with a neutral sound profile, the Meteor Orange could be more suited to your liking. Ultimately, it boils down to personal preference and what kind of typing experience you are looking for. Make sure to test out both switches if possible to determine which one aligns best with your needs and typing style.
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