Gazzew LT vs. SP-Star Meteor Orange
An in-depth look at the Gazzew LT and the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gazzew LT and the SP-Star Meteor Orange. The Gazzew LT switches are linear switches that are best known for their enticing lilac hue, offering an auditory symphony of deep, resonant thockiness with every keystroke. They also provide a seamless glide, making typing a smooth and satisfying experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches are tactile switches that are exquisitively gentle and offer a soft and seductive tactility. Their neutral sound profile adds an element of sophistication to the typing experience. Both switches have their unique characteristics and appeal, but 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
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
65g
Bottom-out force
57g
Pre-travel
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
3.20 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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel Korean spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gazzew LT and the SP-Star Meteor Orange differ in their housing materials, with the LT utilizing a proprietary Gazzew blend for both the top and bottom housings, while the Meteor Orange utilizes nylon for both. Both the Gazzew blend and nylon are known for their ability to produce a deep and full sound profile, thanks to their softness. This means that regardless of the switch you choose, whether it's the LT or the Meteor Orange, you can expect a rich and deep sound while typing.
However, it's worth noting that there may be slight differences in sound and feel between the two switches due to the variation in their housing materials. The Gazzew blend, also known as "boba plastic," is likely to provide a unique quality to the LT switch, contributing to its rich and deep sound profile. On the other hand, nylon, being a relatively softer plastic, absorbs more sound, leading to a duller and rounder sound on the Meteor Orange switch.
When it comes to the overall typing experience, the bottom housing of each switch plays a significant role. The Gazzew blend bottom housing of the LT and the nylon bottom housing of the Meteor Orange contribute to the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. This means that while the top housing may have a minimal impact on the overall sound, the bottom housing can make a noticeable difference in the typing experience between the two switches.
In summary, while the Gazzew LT and the SP-Star Meteor Orange share similarities in delivering a rich and deep sound profile thanks to their soft housing materials, their differences lie in the specific materials used. The Gazzew blend brings a unique quality to the LT switch, while nylon provides the Meteor Orange with a sound that is relatively duller and rounder. Additionally, the bottom housing of each switch plays a significant role in the overall typing experience, showcasing the importance of both the top and bottom housings in creating a satisfying switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gazzew LT linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, it is important to note that the actuation force for both switches is unavailable. This means that the force required to trigger a keystroke is unknown for both switches. However, the LT has a bottom out force of 65 grams, which is considered medium-heavy, while the Meteor Orange has a bottom out force of 57 grams, which is classified as medium-light.
Considering the weight aspect, those who prefer a lighter switch may find the Meteor Orange more suitable as it allows for longer typing periods and is ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience and a stronger push feel may lean towards the LT with its heavier bottom out force.
In terms of similarities, since the actuation force for both switches is unavailable, it can be assumed that they may yield similar results in terms of triggering a keystroke. However, it is important to note that the bottom out forces differ, with the LT being heavier compared to the Meteor Orange. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preferences and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gazzew LT linear switch has a travel distance of 3.2 mm, while the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm. In terms of travel distance, the Meteor Orange has a longer distance compared to the LT. The 4.0mm travel distance is the most traditional, while the 3.0mm is the most shallow. However, shorter travel distances have become prevalent, especially among gamers who prefer faster response times. For those seeking more responsiveness, the LT switch with its shorter travel distance would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, some individuals may find short travel distances to feel too abrupt, and may prefer the Meteor Orange with its longer travel distance for a more hearty depth in their typing experience. Overall, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference and the type of typing experience one desires.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Gazzew LT comes in at $6.50 per 10 switches.
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
The Gazzew LT linear switch is best known for its lilac hue and offers an auditory symphony of deep, resonant thockiness. It has a bassy sound profile, characterized by a lower frequency range, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. The LT also provides a seamless glide with every keystroke. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch is exquisitively gentle with a soft and seductive tactility. It has a neutral sound profile and also produces a thocky sound when pressed.
In terms of sound, the LT switch is bassy, thocky, and low-pitched. This means it offers a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses, characterized by a lower frequency range. The sound can be described as a deep "thud" or a soft "knock" when the key is pressed and released. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange switch has a neutral sound profile, suitable for most intents and purposes. It offers a moderate sound profile with a thocky sound similar to the LT switch.
In terms of feel, the LT switch's qualities are unknown. However, the Meteor Orange switch is described as mild and polished. Being mild means it offers a more gentle typing experience, suitable for most individuals. It stands in the safe, middle-ground zone, ensuring that the sound and feel will be approachable to most users. Additionally, being polished means it has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Based on the available information, the Gazzew LT linear switch and SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch offer contrasting subjective qualities. The LT switch provides a bassy sound profile with a seamless glide, while the Meteor Orange switch offers a gentle tactility and a neutral sound profile. Both switches have a thocky sound when pressed. It's important to note that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the chosen keyboard board and keycaps. Therefore, if one is seeking similar results, they can expect a comparable experience in terms of sound and feel, although there may be some subtle differences based on other factors.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and a deep, resonant thockiness, the Gazzew LT switches are a great choice. These switches offer a seamless glide and an auditory symphony with their enticing lilac hue. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a soft and seductive tactility, the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches are the way to go. These switches have a neutral sound profile and produce a deep, rich thock when pressed. Additionally, if you value a more gentle typing experience and a polished finish for smooth key travel, the Meteor Orange switches are the perfect fit. Ultimately, the choice between the Gazzew LT and the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches depends on your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and feel.