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SP-Star Meteor Orange vs. SP-Star Meteor White

An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the SP-Star Meteor White switches—which one is the best fit for you?

Overview

When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the SP-Star Meteor White. While both switches fall under the same categorization of 'Neutral, Mild, Thocky, Polished', they differ in terms of their tactile and linear properties. The Meteor Orange switch is best known for its exquisitely gentle tactility and neutral sound profile, providing a soft and seductive typing experience. On the other hand, the Meteor White switch offers a subdued linear feel that is easy to push with a gentle, pitter-patter sound profile. Both switches deliver a soft type feel and sound profile, making them appealing options for those seeking a quieter and more tactile typing experience. 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

57g

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

Nylon

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

Gold plated

Housing materials

The housing materials of the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the SP-Star Meteor White, both made of nylon, share many similarities. Nylon is a classic switch housing material known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a relatively softer plastic compared to harder plastics, allowing it to absorb more sound and create a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, when typing on either the Meteor Orange or the Meteor White, users can expect a similar experience in terms of the sound produced and the overall typing feel.

However, one difference between the two switches lies in the distribution of the housing materials. If the top and bottom housings of a switch are different, each housing material will contribute different qualities to the switch. In this case, the bottom housing will have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will influence the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, users may notice slight variations in the sound and feel between the Meteor Orange and the Meteor White due to the different housing materials used in each part of the switch.

Overall, both the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the SP-Star Meteor White provide a comparable typing experience due to their use of nylon as the housing material. The nylon material contributes to the creation of a deeper and fuller sound profile, resulting in a satisfying typing experience for users. While there may be some subtle differences in sound and feel between the two switches, these variations are attributed to the distribution of the housing materials rather than the inherent qualities of nylon itself.

Weight

When comparing the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch, the actuation force and bottom out force play an important role. The actuation force of both switches is unavailable, meaning we do not have specific information about it. However, it can be assumed that since both switches belong to the same SP-Star Meteor series, they will likely have similar actuation forces, resulting in a comparable typing experience.

In terms of bottom out force, both switches have a force of 57 grams, which can be considered medium-light. This means that when typing, the user will experience a moderate amount of resistance before triggering the keystroke.

Considering weight as a factor, those who prefer a lighter switch might find it advantageous as it allows for extended typing sessions without fatigue. A lighter switch is also suitable for individuals who often use their keyboards for work or engage in lengthy gaming sessions. On the other hand, for those seeking a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, opting for switches with heavier forces would be more suitable.

In conclusion, while the specific actuation forces are unavailable for both the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch, it can be assumed that they will provide a similar typing experience due to belonging to the same series. However, when it comes to bottom out force, both switches have a medium-light resistance of 57 grams. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference, with lighter switches offering longer endurance and heavier switches providing a more solid typing experience.

Travel distance

The SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same distance of travel. Both switches offer a consistent and satisfying key press, ensuring a comfortable typing experience. Whether you choose the tactile switch or the linear switch, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance.

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 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

When it comes to sound, both the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch have a neutral sound profile. This means that they offer a moderate level of sound when pressed and released, making them suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user and whether you plan to use them at home or work. Additionally, both switches are described as thocky, which means they produce a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. Imagine a deep "thud" or a soft "knock" when you use these switches. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used, so keep that in mind when considering your options.

In terms of feel, both the Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Meteor White linear switch offer a mild typing experience. This means they provide a more gentle and approachable feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Their qualities fall within a safe, middle-ground zone, making them comfortable for most users. Additionally, both switches are described as polished, indicating that they have a smooth and refined finish. This results in a sleek and satisfying typing experience due to reduced friction and smooth key travel. The materials used and possible factory lubing contribute to the polished feel of these switches.

Considering the available information, both the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch exhibit similar subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. Both switches have a neutral sound profile with a thocky characteristic and offer a gentle typing experience with a polished feel. This means that regardless of which switch you choose, you can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel. These switches are perfect for individuals who prefer a soft and seductive tactility and a subdued and easy-to-push linear switch.

Conclusion

In closing, when deciding between the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you are looking for a switch that provides a soft and seductive tactility, along with a neutral sound profile, the Meteor Orange would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch that is easy to push and offers a gentle, pitter-patter sound profile, the Meteor White would be more suitable. Both switches have a bottom out force of 57 grams, making them medium-light switches. Additionally, in terms of sound and feel, both switches fall under the neutral and thocky descriptors, ensuring a moderate sound profile and a gentle typing experience. Overall, consider your desired level of tactility and sound profile when making your decision between these two switches.

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