Gateron Melodic vs. SP-Star Meteor Orange
An in-depth look at the Gateron Melodic and the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch for your mechanical keyboard, there are a few key differences to consider. The Gateron Melodic stands out for its invigorating clicky sound and tactile feedback, thanks to advancements like smooth factory lubing and dual-railed stems, providing a buttery and crunchy typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange offers a gentler and more subtle tactile feel with a neutral sound profile, making it ideal for those who prefer a mild and polished typing experience. Both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences, but ultimately, the choice between them depends on personal preference and typing style. 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
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron Melodic and the SP-Star Meteor Orange, it is evident that they both use nylon for the bottom housing. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic nature, which absorbs more sound and results in a duller and rounder sound. This means that both switches will likely provide a similar typing experience in terms of bottom-out sound and feel.
On the other hand, the Melodic uses polycarbonate for its top housing, while the Meteor Orange uses nylon for the top housing. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for switches with RGB lighting due to its translucency. In contrast, nylon in the top housing of the Meteor Orange will produce a deeper and fuller sound profile, which emphasizes a different sound experience compared to the Melodic.
Overall, the choice of housing material in switches plays a crucial role in determining the sound and feel of typing. While both the Gateron Melodic and the SP-Star Meteor Orange share a commonality in using nylon for the bottom housing, the difference in their top housing materials highlights how each switch will offer a unique sound profile. Whether you prefer a sharper and crisper sound from polycarbonate or a deeper and fuller sound from nylon, both switches provide a distinct typing experience that caters to individual preferences.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch differ slightly. The Gateron Melodic has a bottom out force of 60 grams, placing it in the medium range, while the SP-Star Meteor Orange has a bottom out force of 57 grams, making it slightly lighter at a medium-light level. Both switches have an actuation force of None grams, meaning they will provide a similar typing experience in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke. When considering weight, some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Meteor Orange for longer typing or gaming sessions, while others may opt for the slightly heavier bottom out force of the Melodic for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing and contrasting their travel distances, they both offer a similar tactile feedback and typing experience for users. With a travel distance of 4 mm for both switches, users can expect consistent results in terms of keypress feedback and actuation. Whether you choose the Melodic or Meteor Orange switch, you can be assured that the travel distance will provide a satisfying typing experience with smooth keystrokes and tactile response.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Melodic has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Melodic for $6.00.
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 Gateron Melodic clicky switch offers a resonant and crunchy typing experience, with a higher-pitched sound profile that is clean and sharp. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch provides a neutral and thocky sound profile, making it suitable for various environments and preferences. Both switches offer unique auditory experiences that cater to different preferences, with the Melodic providing a more immersive clicky sound and the Meteor Orange offering a softer and more gentle typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron Melodic switch is noted for its buttery and invigorating keystroke experience, providing a smooth and fluid typing sensation with pronounced feedback. In contrast, the SP-Star Meteor Orange switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, with a more gentle feel that is approachable to most users. Both switches excel in providing a comfortable typing experience, with the Melodic offering a more pronounced feedback and the Meteor Orange providing a smoother and refined key travel.
Overall, the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Melodic delivers a resonant and crunchy typing experience with a buttery and invigorating feel, perfect for users who enjoy a classic clicky switch with pronounced feedback. Meanwhile, the Meteor Orange provides a neutral and thocky sound profile with a mild and polished feel, appealing to those who prefer a softer and more refined typing experience. Depending on individual preferences, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to a variety of typing styles and preferences, ensuring a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Melodic clicky switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a medium bottom out force and enjoy a resonant or crunchy sound profile with a buttery or invigorating feel, the Melodic switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and appreciate a neutral or thocky sound profile with a mild or polished feel, the Meteor Orange switch could be more suitable for your preferences. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what characteristics you prioritize in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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