Durock Light Tactile vs. SP-Star Meteor Orange
An in-depth look at the Durock Light Tactile and the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two options that stand out are the Durock Light Tactile and the SP-Star Meteor Orange, both of which fall under the tactile switch category. The Light Tactile switch from Durock is renowned for its gentle tactility, providing a pleasant deviation from the sharper tactile switches commonly found in the market. Typing on these switches offers an ethereal tactile experience, accompanied by a jelly-like sound signature. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange switches are known for their exquisitely soft and seductive tactility, combined with a neutral sound profile. These switches boast a 'thocky' feel, adding to the overall typing satisfaction. However, let's delve deeper into the specifics to help you make an informed decision on the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
52g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
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
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Durock Light Tactile and the SP-Star Meteor Orange differ in terms of their housing materials. The Light Tactile features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it suitable for RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange utilizes a nylon top housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Aesthetically, the Light Tactile's polycarbonate top housing allows for vibrant RGB lighting, while the Meteor Orange's nylon top housing offers a classic and understated look.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Light Tactile and the Meteor Orange utilize nylon. This material choice contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics, creating a dulled and rounder sound. Therefore, both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of the bottom housing, with a focus on producing a deep and rich sound profile.
It is important to note that the qualities brought by the different housing materials are distributed between the top and bottom housing of a switch. When pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing, in this case, nylon, will impact the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing, whether polycarbonate or nylon, will have a greater influence on the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, while the Light Tactile and the Meteor Orange offer distinct characteristics with their respective housing materials, the overall typing experience may still exhibit similarities, particularly when considering the bottom housing's contribution to sound.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, there are some noticeable differences. The Light Tactile switch has an actuation force of 52 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams, making it a medium-heavy option. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange switch's actuation force is currently unavailable, but it has a bottom out force of 57 grams, classifying it as medium-light.
In terms of weight, it's important to consider personal preferences and the intended usage of the keyboard. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Light Tactile switch more suitable, as its lower actuation force allows for longer typing periods without causing excessive fatigue. This makes it an ideal choice for individuals who use their keyboards extensively for work or during extended gaming sessions.
Alternatively, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may opt for the Meteor Orange switch. While the actuation force of this switch is unknown, its slightly heavier bottom out force of 57 grams provides a tactile feedback that some users find satisfying.
Ultimately, the Light Tactile and Meteor Orange switches offer different levels of force feedback, with one leaning towards the lighter side and the other towards the heavier side. However, it's important to note that depending on personal preferences, both switches can provide similar results in terms of typing experience. The decision ultimately lies with the user and their desired typing feel.
Travel distance
Both the Durock Light Tactile tactile switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either switch, you will feel a consistent 4 mm of travel from the top to the bottom. Therefore, you can expect similar results and experiences in terms of the travel distance for both switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Light Tactile has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Light Tactile for $4.25.
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, both the Durock Light Tactile and the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches are described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that they produce a moderate sound when pressed, making them suitable for a variety of purposes and user levels. Please note that the actual sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors, such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, both the Light Tactile and Meteor Orange switches are described as offering a mild typing experience. This means that they provide a gentle tactile feedback without any pronounced characteristics. Additionally, both switches are described as being polished, which results in a smooth and refined typing experience. This can be attributed to the materials used or factory lubing, ensuring reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, both the Durock Light Tactile and SP-Star Meteor Orange switches offer similar subjective qualities. They provide a gentle and approachable tactility, along with a neutral sound profile. The polished finish of both switches also ensures a sleek typing experience with reduced friction. Therefore, if you choose either switch, you can expect to achieve similar results in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, both the Durock Light Tactile and SP-Star Meteor Orange switches offer a gentle and approachable typing experience with a similar moderate actuation force requirement and sound profile. However, there are some differences to consider.
If you prefer a softer and more seductive tactility, the Meteor Orange switches may be the better choice for you. They provide a gentle and smooth typing experience, accompanied by a satisfying thocky sound when pressed and released. These switches are recommended for both beginners and advanced users, and can be used effectively in both casual and professional settings.
On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter tactile feedback that stands out from the sharper tactile switches on the market, the Durock Light Tactile switches are worth considering. With a bottom out force of 67 grams, they offer a medium-heavy typing experience with an angelic tactility and a jelly-like sound signature. These switches are ideal for those who value a more unique and distinct tactile feel during typing.
Overall, both the Durock Light Tactile and SP-Star Meteor Orange switches are excellent options for individuals seeking a gentle and enjoyable typing experience. Consider your personal preferences regarding tactility and sound, and choose the switch that best aligns with your desired typing experience.
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