Zuoce Lavender vs. SP-Star Meteor White
An in-depth look at the Zuoce Lavender and the SP-Star Meteor White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Zuoce Lavender and the SP-Star Meteor White mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes apparent that they cater to different preferences. The Lavender switch is recognized for its exceptional smoothness and crisp, clacky sound signature, providing a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Meteor White switch is known for its gentle and subdued nature, offering an easy push and soft sound profile. While the Lavender switch falls under the categories of 'Easy-to-press' and 'Clacky', the Meteor White switch is classified as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', and 'Polished'. Each switch has its own unique characteristics that appeal to different users. 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
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Zuoce Lavender and SP-Star Meteor White both have unique housing materials that contribute to the sound profile of the switches. The Lavender features POM top and bottom housings, which create a pleasing and deep sound profile that is relatively muted. On the other hand, the Meteor White utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housings, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile that is rounder and duller. While both housing materials aim to provide a pleasant typing experience, they offer slightly different characteristics in terms of sound.
One key difference between the Zuoce Lavender and the SP-Star Meteor White is the material used for the top housing. The Lavender's POM top housing produces a unique sound that is deep and pleasing, while the Meteor White's nylon top housing elicits a fuller sound profile that is also deeper. Despite these differences, both housing materials absorb sound effectively due to their soft nature, resulting in a muted and round sound that is distinct to each switch. Additionally, the top housing material is crucial in influencing the sound when releasing a key, showcasing the importance of this component in the overall typing experience.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Zuoce Lavender and the SP-Star Meteor White continue to offer contrasting experiences. The Lavender's POM bottom housing contributes to the deeper and muted sound profile, affecting the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch. Similarly, the Meteor White's nylon bottom housing enhances the fuller sound profile, providing a round and dull tone to the typing experience. Despite these differences, both switches aim to provide a unique and pleasing typing experience, showcasing the importance of housing materials in determining the overall sound profile of a switch.
Weight
The Zuoce Lavender linear switch has an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 53 grams, making it a medium-light switch. In comparison, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 57 grams, also falling into the medium-light category. Both switches provide a relatively light typing experience, which is ideal for prolonged typing sessions or gaming marathons. However, the Lavender switch requires slightly less force to actuate compared to the Meteor White switch. This means that users may find the Lavender switch to be slightly lighter and easier to type on, while the Meteor White switch may offer a slightly more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would come down to personal preference in terms of actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch, it is evident that the Lavender has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm, while the Meteor White has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The Lavender switch may be preferred by those looking for a faster response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice among gamers. On the other hand, the Meteor White switch with its longer travel distance may appeal to individuals who prefer a more substantial key press with a deeper feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience, with the Lavender offering a quicker response and the Meteor White providing a more profound keystroke.
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 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
In terms of sound, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch offers a distinct clacky sound profile, known for its sharp and snappy sound when pressed, creating a crisp and bright auditory experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch produces a more neutral sound with a thocky undertone, providing a softer and more subdued typing experience. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Lavender delivering a more pronounced and percussive sound, while the Meteor White offers a gentler and more subtle typing experience.
Moving on to feel, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch is praised for its easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force to activate and providing a low-impact typing feel that reduces finger fatigue during long typing sessions. In contrast, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch offers a mild typing experience with a polished finish, resulting in smooth and refined key presses that minimize friction and provide a sleek typing experience. Both switches offer characteristics that enhance the typing experience, with the Lavender focusing on effortless and responsive key presses, while the Meteor White prioritizes a gentle and approachable typing feel.
Overall, the Zuoce Lavender linear switch stands out for its clacky sound profile and easy-to-press feel, offering a satisfying and smooth typing experience. In comparison, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch provides a more neutral and subdued sound profile with a mild and polished typing feel, catering to those who prefer a gentler and more refined typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance the overall typing experience, ensuring that users will get similar results in terms of quality and performance.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Zuoce Lavender linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prioritize smoothness and a crisp, clacky sound profile, the Lavender switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subdued and gentle typing experience with a soft, thocky sound profile, the Meteor White switch could be the ideal option. Furthermore, if you prefer an easy-to-press switch with minimal resistance, the Lavender switch fits the bill. Conversely, if you prefer a mild typing experience with a polished finish for smooth key travel, the Meteor White switch may be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience. Consider how you prioritize these factors to determine which switch aligns best with your needs and preferences.
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