TTC Gold Brown vs. SP-Star Meteor Orange
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Brown and the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the TTC Gold Brown and the SP-Star Meteor Orange, both of which are tactile switches. The Gold Brown switches are known for their balanced nature, offering a slight but satisfying bump when pressed. They also have a moderate weightiness to them, enhancing the typing experience. Additionally, these switches produce a rounded sound profile that is softer than most, making them a great choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange switches are beloved for their gentle and seductive tactility. With a soft touch and neutral sound profile, these switches provide a delightful typing sensation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
55g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
63g
Bottom-out force
57g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Gold Brown and the SP-Star Meteor Orange are different. The Gold Brown features a polycarbonate top housing, while the Meteor Orange has a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the Gold Brown creates a sharper and more resonant sound profile. It is also translucent, making it ideal for use with RGB lighting. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Meteor Orange produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. It absorbs more sound due to its softer nature, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, while both housing materials have their unique qualities, the Gold Brown's polycarbonate top housing is better suited for a more clear and resonant sound, while the Meteor Orange's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound experience.
Similarly, the bottom housing materials of the Gold Brown and the Meteor Orange are different. The Gold Brown utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Meteor Orange also incorporates a nylon bottom housing. Both nylon bottom housings contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to their softer nature, which absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics. However, since the bottom housing has more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, users can expect a similar experience when pressing down on both the Gold Brown and the Meteor Orange switches. In terms of sound, the differences between the nylon top housings will have a more noticeable impact when releasing a key, as the top housing material influences the sound in this instance.
In summary, the TTC Gold Brown and SP-Star Meteor Orange differ in their housing materials. While the Gold Brown features a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper and more resonant sound profile, the Meteor Orange utilizes a nylon top housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound experience. However, both switches share the same nylon bottom housing, leading to a similar sound and feel when pressing down on the keys. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the desired sound and aesthetic preferences of the user.
Weight
When it comes to the actuation force and bottom out force, there are some notable differences between the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch. The Gold Brown has an actuation force of 55 grams, while the Meteor Orange's actuation force is unknown. Both switches have a medium level of actuation force. In terms of bottom out force, the Gold Brown requires 63 grams of force, whereas the Meteor Orange requires 57 grams, making it slightly lighter.
The actuation force determines the force required to trigger a keystroke, and in this aspect, the Gold Brown switch provides a known weight measurement, giving users a clear understanding of the force they need to apply. While the exact actuation force of the Meteor Orange switch is not available, we can assume that it falls within a similar range, resulting in a similar typing experience.
On the other hand, the bottom out force, which measures the force required to press the key all the way down, is lighter in the Meteor Orange switch compared to the Gold Brown. This difference might make the Meteor Orange more appealing to individuals looking for a lighter and potentially less fatiguing typing experience, especially during longer periods of use.
In conclusion, the Gold Brown tactile switch has a known actuation force and a slightly heavier bottom out force, while the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch has an unknown actuation force and a slightly lighter bottom out force. Depending on personal preferences, users can choose between the two switches based on whether they prefer a stronger push feel or a lighter typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, indicating that they both provide a similar sensory experience when pressed. This means that users can expect to feel the same level of key travel when using either switch. Consequently, there is no difference in terms of travel distance between these two switches as they offer identical results in this aspect.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Gold Brown for $3.28.
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
The sound profile of the TTC Gold Brown switches can be described as neutral, with a rounded and softer tone compared to most switches. They have a moderate weightiness and produce a satisfying bump when pressed. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches offer a neutral sound profile as well, but they are also described as thocky. This means they produce a deep and rich sound, similar to a deep "thud" or a soft "knock" when the key is pressed and released.
Moving on to feel, both the Gold Brown and Meteor Orange switches are categorized as mild. This means they offer a gentle typing experience without any overwhelming characteristics. The Gold Brown switches are also described as buttery, indicating a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. They provide a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Additionally, the Gold Brown switches are accented, meaning they offer a medium level of tactility that is not too overwhelming or subtle. Furthermore, these switches have a polished finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the Meteor Orange switches have a polished finish as well, offering the same sleek and refined typing experience with reduced friction.
Overall, both the TTC Gold Brown and SP-Star Meteor Orange switches have similar qualities in terms of sound and feel. They both offer a neutral sound profile suitable for most intents and purposes. They provide a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users. Additionally, both switches have a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction. Therefore, if you are looking for similar results, either of these switches would be a suitable choice depending on your personal preference.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a balanced switch with a moderate weightiness and a slight, satisfying bump, then the TTC Gold Brown tactile switch would be a great choice for you. These switches provide a rounded and softer sound profile, making them suitable for both beginners and advanced users. They offer a mild and buttery typing experience, with a polished finish that ensures smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prefer an exquisitively gentle switch with a seductive tactility, then the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch is the way to go. These switches also have a moderate actuation force requirement and share a similar neutral sound profile as the Gold Browns. However, in addition to their mild and polished feel, they also produce a thocky sound, which adds a deep and satisfying element to your typing experience.
Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Gold Brown and SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switches will depend on your personal preference for weightiness, sound profile, and typing experience. Both switches offer a balanced and approachable feel that is suitable for various intents and purposes, whether at home or in a professional setting.
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