TTC Gold Red vs. SP-Star Meteor White
An in-depth look at the TTC Gold Red and the SP-Star Meteor White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two options that stand out are the TTC Gold Red and the SP-Star Meteor White, both of which fall under the category of linear switches. The Gold Red offers a buttery smooth typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance, providing a satisfying touch to every keystroke. On the other hand, the Meteor White embodies a subdued and gentle linear switch, with an effortless push and a soft, pitter-patter sound. While both switches share characteristics such as a neutral and mild feel, the Gold Red adds a snappy and polished sound profile to your keyboard, while the Meteor White maintains a more subtle and polished sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision on which switch suits your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
43g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Gold plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the TTC Gold Red and the SP-Star Meteor White differ in terms of their composition and resulting sound profiles. The Gold Red features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a stiffer plastic that resonates more clearly. In contrast, the Meteor White utilizes a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. So, while the Gold Red offers a brighter and sharper sound, the Meteor White provides a deeper and fuller one.
In terms of the bottom housings, both the TTC Gold Red and the SP-Star Meteor White share the use of nylon as their material. This classic switch housing material elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile in both switches. This is because nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, whether you choose the Gold Red or the Meteor White, you can expect a similar sound quality when pressing down on the switches.
It's important to note that the distinction in housing materials between the top and bottom of the switches affects the overall sound experience. While the bottom housing primarily influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the switch, the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound when releasing a key. The polycarbonate top housing of the Gold Red will result in a crisper and more resonant sound upon key release, whereas the nylon top housing of the Meteor White will create a deeper and fuller sound. Thus, the choice between these switches depends on whether you prefer a sharper or a rounder sound profile when typing.
Weight
When comparing the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch, there are noticeable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Gold Red switch has a light actuation force of 43 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. On the other hand, the actuation force of the Meteor White switch is unknown, but it has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 57 grams, which can be classified as medium-light.
In terms of weight, the Gold Red switch is lighter in both actuation and bottom out force when compared to the Meteor White switch. This lighter weight can be advantageous for individuals who prefer a keyboard that allows them to type for extended periods of time, making it ideal for both work and long gaming sessions. The light actuation force of the Gold Red switch ensures quick and effortless keystrokes, while the slightly heavier bottom out force still provides a satisfying typing experience.
Alternatively, the Meteor White switch offers a slightly more substantial typing experience due to its medium-light bottom out force. For those who prefer a stronger push feel when typing, this switch would be a suitable choice. However, since the actuation force of the Meteor White switch is unknown, it is difficult to compare it directly with the Gold Red switch in this aspect.
Overall, while the actuation and bottom out forces vary between the TTC Gold Red and SP-Star Meteor White switches, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience. Whether one prefers a lighter or slightly heavier feel, both options offer the necessary force for efficient keystrokes.
Travel distance
Both the TTC Gold Red linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key, both switches will travel the same distance from the top to the bottom. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of the distance you feel when using either of these switches. The travel distances for both switches are equal, offering consistent feedback and a familiar typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Gold Red 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 Red for $3.28.
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 Gold Red switch is known for its thocky and low-pitched characteristics. The deep and satisfying sound produced when the key is pressed and released adds a level of personality to your typing experience without being too ostentatious. On the other hand, the Meteor White switch also offers a neutral sound profile with a touch of thockiness. The gentle pitter-patter sound produced by these switches creates a subdued and soothing typing experience. Both switches have a moderate sound profile overall, making them suitable for various purposes. It is important to note that the sound of the switches can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, both the Gold Red and Meteor White switches provide a gentle and approachable typing experience. The mild characteristics of these switches ensure that the typing feel is not too pronounced or overwhelming, appealing to a wide range of users. Additionally, both switches boast a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. The reduction of friction and smooth key travel further enhances the overall feel, making typing effortless and comfortable. With their subtle resistance, the switches are suitable for shared spaces, ensuring a quiet and unobtrusive typing experience.
In conclusion, both the TTC Gold Red and SP-Star Meteor White switches offer similar qualities in terms of sound and feel. They provide a neutral sound profile with a touch of thockiness, and their typing experience is gentle and approachable. The switches' polished finish ensures smooth and refined keystrokes, reducing friction and enhancing the overall feel. Whether you choose the Gold Red or Meteor White, you can expect a pleasant and satisfying typing experience, suitable for various purposes.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a smooth typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a snappy sound profile, the TTC Gold Red linear switch would be the ideal choice for you. These switches offer a buttery smooth feel and a moderate sound that is both thocky and low-pitched. The Gold Red switch strikes a great balance between actuation force and sound, making it suitable for various purposes.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more subdued and gentle typing experience, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch would be a better option. These switches are easy to push and offer a gentle, pitter-patter sound profile. They also have a moderate actuation force requirement, making them suitable for both beginners and advanced users. The Meteor White switch provides a neutral sound and typing feel, ensuring a comfortable experience whether you are using it at home or work.
Ultimately, the choice between the TTC Gold Red and SP-Star Meteor White switches depends on your personal preferences. If you value a snappy sound profile and a light-medium level of resistance, go for the Gold Red. If you prefer a more subdued and gentle typing experience, along with a neutral sound profile, the Meteor White is the way to go. Both switches offer a high-quality feel and would be great additions to your mechanical keyboard.
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