SP-Star Meteor Orange vs. KTT Miaowu
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the KTT Miaowu switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the SP-Star Meteor Orange and KTT Miaowu offer distinct experiences to users. The Meteor Orange switch is praised for its gentle tactility and neutral sound profile, providing a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Miaowu switch stands out for its enhanced stem stability and smooth keystroke action, thanks to its innovative POK stem material. While the Meteor Orange switch offers a softer and more seductive typing feel, the Miaowu switch provides a bouncy and clacky sensation. When deciding between these switches, it ultimately comes down to 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
43g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POK
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
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
In comparing the housing materials of the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the KTT Miaowu, one key difference lies in the material used for the top housing. The Meteor Orange's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, absorbing more sound and creating a duller, rounder sound. On the other hand, the Miaowu's polycarbonate top housing provides a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile thanks to its stiffer plastic makeup, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. The choice between these two materials can impact the overall typing experience, with nylon offering a softer feel and sound, while polycarbonate delivers a crisper and more defined sound.
In terms of the bottom housing material, both the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the KTT Miaowu use nylon. This choice provides a similar typing experience for both switches, with nylon offering a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. As a result, the bottom housing's impact on the switch's sound and feel remains consistent between the two models. This similarity in bottom housing material ensures that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound and tactile feedback when using either the Meteor Orange or the Miaowu switches.
While the top and bottom housings of the SP-Star Meteor Orange and KTT Miaowu differ in material, the impact of these materials on the overall typing experience is clear. The choice of nylon for the bottom housing in both switches provides a consistent deep and full sound profile, while the differing top housing materials offer distinct sound profiles, with nylon providing a softer, duller sound in the Meteor Orange and polycarbonate delivering a crisper and more resonant sound in the Miaowu. Ultimately, the decision between these two housing materials depends on personal preference for sound and feel, with both options offering unique qualities to enhance the typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the KTT Miaowu linear switch, it is evident that the Miaowu is the lighter of the two. The Meteor Orange has no specified actuation force, while the Miaowu has an actuation force of 43 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Meteor Orange requires 57 grams, which is slightly heavier than the Miaowu's 50 grams. The difference in actuation force is quite significant, with the Miaowu being lighter and easier to type on, while the Meteor Orange offers a more substantial typing experience with a higher bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions may lean towards the Miaowu, while those seeking a more robust typing feel may opt for the Meteor Orange. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the KTT Miaowu linear switch, it is evident that the Miaowu has a shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm, while the Meteor Orange has a longer travel distance of 4 mm. The difference may seem small, but it can significantly impact the typing or gaming experience. The shorter travel distance of the Miaowu may be preferred by gamers seeking faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the Meteor Orange may be favored by those who prefer a more substantial keypress feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and typing experience.
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 KTT Miaowu has an MSRP of $4.32 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Miaowu for $3.71.
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, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch is known for its neutral sound profile, offering a moderate actuation force and a pleasant typing experience suitable for various uses. On the other hand, the KTT Miaowu linear switch is described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. Depending on personal preference and setup, the sound of these switches can be influenced by factors such as the keyboard case and keycaps chosen.
In terms of feel, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch is praised for its mild tactility and polished typing experience, providing a gentle and smooth keypress. In contrast, the KTT Miaowu linear switch is characterized by its bouncy feel, offering a spring-like feedback and lively sensation when typing. The choice between these switches ultimately depends on individual preferences for tactile feedback and typing style, as both offer unique qualities for different typing experiences.
Overall, while the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the KTT Miaowu linear switch offer distinctive sound and feel characteristics, both switches are designed to provide a satisfying typing experience. Whether you prefer a gentle and polished typing feel with a neutral sound profile or a bouncy and clacky typing sensation, both switches cater to different preferences and can enhance your overall typing experience based on your personal preferences and setup choices. Ultimately, experimenting with both switches on different keyboards and setups can help you determine which switch aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the KTT Miaowu linear switch, it all comes down to personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and enjoy a soft and seductive tactility with a neutral sound profile, then the Meteor Orange may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and prioritize enhanced stem stability and smoother keystroke action, then the Miaowu may be more suitable. Consider your preferences for sound and feel as well, whether you prefer a thocky sound and a mild, polished typing experience or a clacky sound and a bouncy, lively feel. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on what aspects resonate with your typing preferences and comfort level.
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