TTC Iron vs. SP-Star Meteor Orange
An in-depth look at the TTC Iron and the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking for the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the TTC Iron and SP-Star Meteor Orange switches stand out with their unique characteristics. The TTC Iron linear switch is praised for its pronounced clacky sound signature, light actuation, and smooth travel, making it an ideal choice for precision typists and typing enthusiasts. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange switch offers a gentle and tactile typing experience, with a soft tactility and neutral sound profile that appeals to those looking for a more subtle typing feel. 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
41g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
Bottom-out force
57g
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the TTC Iron and the SP-Star Meteor Orange use different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Iron utilizes POM for both top and bottom, resulting in a pleasing and unique sound profile that is deeper and relatively more muted. In contrast, the Meteor Orange uses nylon for both top and bottom, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon absorbing more sound. While the Iron's POM housing provides a consistent sound profile throughout the typing experience, the nylon housing of the Meteor Orange may offer a slightly different feel between pressing and releasing keys due to its sound absorption properties.
The choice of housing material between POM and nylon in the TTC Iron and SP-Star Meteor Orange, respectively, influences the overall sound and feel of the switches. POM, known for its pleasing sound and unique profile, creates a deep and muted sound that remains consistent whether pressing down or releasing a key. On the other hand, nylon, being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile but may result in a slightly different feel when typing. Despite these differences, both housing materials aim to enhance the typing experience by providing a distinct auditory feedback that can satisfy various preferences among keyboard enthusiasts.
In terms of housing materials, the TTC Iron and the SP-Star Meteor Orange offer contrasting characteristics that cater to different user preferences. While the Iron's POM housing creates a consistent and unique sound profile, the Meteor Orange's nylon housing imparts a deeper and fuller sound with its sound absorption properties. However, both switches aim to provide a satisfying typing experience by utilizing distinct materials that contribute to the overall sound and feel of the switch. Whether you prefer the deeper and muted sound of POM or the fuller sound of nylon, both switches offer a unique typing experience that can cater to a variety of preferences.
Weight
The TTC Iron linear switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch. The Iron requires 41 grams of force to actuate and 50 grams to bottom out, while the Meteor Orange has an unknown actuation force and 57 grams to bottom out. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Iron switch, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. On the other hand, those who enjoy a more substantial push may find the Meteor Orange switch more satisfying. Both switches provide different levels of feedback and resistance, catering to varying preferences in typing feel.
Travel distance
The TTC Iron linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm, while the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances compared to more traditional options. Gamers may prefer the TTC Iron for its slightly shorter travel distance, which can result in faster response times. On the other hand, those looking for a more substantial key press may lean towards the SP-Star Meteor Orange with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, both switches offer a relatively short travel distance, providing similar results in terms of key press feel.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The TTC Iron has an MSRP of $5.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Iron 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
When it comes to sound, the TTC Iron linear switch is known for its clacky and sharp sound profile, adding a satisfying auditory element to each keystroke. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch offers a more neutral sound signature that is soft and gentle, perfect for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. While both switches fall under the neutral sound category, the Iron switch provides a more pronounced and percussive sound, while the Meteor Orange switch offers a more subdued and polished tone. Ultimately, the sound preference boils down to personal taste and the overall setup of the keyboard.
In terms of feel, the TTC Iron linear switch is characterized by its easy-to-press nature, offering minimal resistance and light actuation force for effortless typing sessions. The switch provides a mild typing experience that enhances comfort and reduces finger fatigue during prolonged use. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch offers a mild and gentle typing feel, making it approachable for most users. Additionally, the polished finish of the Meteor Orange switch contributes to a smooth and refined typing experience, thanks to reduced friction and enhanced key travel. Both switches deliver a comfortable typing experience, with the Iron switch leaning towards a lighter actuation force and the Meteor Orange switch focusing on a more refined and gentle feel.
In conclusion, the TTC Iron linear switch excels in providing a sharp and clacky sound profile, along with an easy-to-press and swift typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch offers a neutral and gentle sound profile, coupled with a mild and polished typing feel. While both switches offer unique qualities, such as actuation force and sound signature, they cater to different preferences and typing styles. Whether you prefer a more pronounced sound with swift actuation or a softer, refined typing experience, both the Iron and Meteor Orange switches provide quality options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the TTC Iron linear switch or the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, you should take into account your preference for sound and feel. If you enjoy a clacky sound profile that adds a satisfying auditory element to your typing experience, along with a light and easy-to-press feel, the Iron switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more neutral sound profile and a gentle, polished typing feel with a slightly higher bottom out force, the Meteor Orange switch could be the better option. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose based on what resonates with you the most.
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