Zuoce Lavender vs. SP-Star Meteor Orange
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Lavender and the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two options that stand out are the Zuoce Lavender and the SP-Star Meteor Orange. The Zuoce Lavender is a linear switch that offers exceptional smoothness right out of the box, thanks to its proprietary Ly blend. With a crisp and clacky sound signature, each keystroke provides a satisfying experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange is a tactile switch known for its gentle tactility and neutral sound profile. Categorized as easy-to-press and clacky for Zuoce Lavender, and neutral, mild, thocky, polished for SP-Star Meteor Orange respectively, these switches offer unique advantages depending on individual preferences. 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
48g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
57g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
Z1 (Ly blend)
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
21mm double-staged spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Zuoce Lavender and the SP-Star Meteor Orange, we can see that both switches use different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Lavender utilizes POM for both the top and bottom housings, creating a deep and muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange uses nylon for both the top and bottom housings, resulting in a fuller and rounder sound. While both materials aim to create pleasing sound profiles, the POM in the Lavender may offer a more unique and distinctive sound compared to the nylon used in the Meteor Orange.
Despite the differences in housing materials, both the Zuoce Lavender and the SP-Star Meteor Orange provide a similar typing experience in terms of sound. The POM top and bottom housing in the Lavender create a deep and muted sound profile, while the nylon top and bottom housing in the Meteor Orange elicits a fuller and rounder sound. This means that both switches aim to deliver a satisfying typing experience with unique sound characteristics that cater to different preferences. Whether you prefer the deeper sound of POM or the fuller sound of nylon, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience.
It is interesting to note that the top housing material has a greater impact on the sound when pressing down a key, while the bottom housing material influences the bottom-out sound and feel. This means that the choice of housing material can significantly affect the overall typing experience, as it determines the sound profile and tactile feedback of the switch. Whether you prefer the distinct sound of POM in the Zuoce Lavender or the fuller sound of nylon in the SP-Star Meteor Orange, both switches offer a unique and satisfying typing experience with their choice of housing materials.
Weight
The Zuoce Lavender linear switch has a slightly lighter actuation force of 48 grams compared to the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, which does not have a specified actuation force. However, the Lavender has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 53 grams compared to the Meteor Orange's bottom out force of 57 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-light category in terms of weight. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Lavender for longer typing sessions or gaming, while others may prefer the slightly heavier bottom out force of the Meteor Orange for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on the individual's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Zuoce Lavender linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm, which is shorter than the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch with a travel distance of 4 mm. The Lavender switch would provide a slightly quicker response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a preferred choice for gamers seeking faster reactions. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange switch offers a bit more depth and tactility with its longer travel distance, which may be favored by those who enjoy a more pronounced keystroke feel. In the end, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding travel distance and the type of typing or gaming experience desired.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Zuoce Lavender has an MSRP of $2.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lavender for $1.99.
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 Zuoce Lavender linear switch offers a clacky experience, characterized by a sharp and snappy sound that is crisp and bright with each keystroke. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch provides a neutral sound profile that is gentle and soft, emphasizing a more subtle and pleasing tactility. While the Lavender switch delivers a more distinct and percussive sound, the Meteor Orange switch offers a milder and more subtle auditory experience, catering to different preferences in sound profile. It's worth noting that sound can also be influenced by factors such as keycap material and keyboard construction.
Moving on to feel, the Zuoce Lavender switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, offering minimal resistance during key presses for a comfortable and effortless typing experience. This results in a low-impact and responsive typing feel, reducing fatigue during extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange switch provides a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users, featuring a polished finish for smooth and refined key travel. The Meteor Orange switch strikes a balance between gentle tactility and smooth key actuation, providing a comfortable typing feel that is suitable for a wide range of users.
In conclusion, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch stands out for its clacky sound profile and easy-to-press feel, offering a satisfying and smooth typing experience right out of the box. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch provides a neutral sound profile and a mild, polished feel that is gentle and approachable to most users. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. Ultimately, both switches are excellent options that provide quality performance and tactile feedback for an enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference in typing experience. If you prioritize a smooth and satisfying keystroke with a crisp sound, the Lavender switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a gentle and polished typing experience with a soft tactility and neutral sound profile, the Meteor Orange switch would be the ideal option. Consider your personal typing style and preferences when selecting between these two switches to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience.
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