SP-Star Meteor Orange vs. PH Studio Milk Tea
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the PH Studio Milk Tea switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the PH Studio Milk Tea offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The Meteor Orange switch is praised for its gentle tactility and neutral sound profile, creating a smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the Milk Tea switch stands out for its high-pitched yet muted sound, providing a balanced auditory experience ideal for extended typing sessions. While the Meteor Orange switch may appeal to those who prefer a softer and more subtle tactile feedback, the Milk Tea switch caters to individuals who value a blend of presence and subtlety in their keystrokes. 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
37.5g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
43.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Housing materials
The SP-Star Meteor Orange and PH Studio Milk Tea both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The Meteor Orange utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Milk Tea opts for POM housing for both the top and bottom, creating a different sound profile that is on the deeper side and relatively more muted compared to nylon.
While both switches have different housing materials for their top and bottom components, the overall feel and sound of the switch will be influenced by a combination of both materials. The bottom housing plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on the key, while the top housing impacts the sound when releasing the key. This means that the combination of nylon and POM in the Meteor Orange and Milk Tea switches creates a balance between the two materials' unique qualities in terms of sound and tactile feedback.
In terms of similarities, both the Meteor Orange and Milk Tea switches offer a pleasing and unique sound profile that leans towards the deeper side. While the nylon in the Meteor Orange absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound, the POM in the Milk Tea creates a relatively more muted sound. Despite these differences, typists can expect a satisfying typing experience from both switches, with each housing material contributing to the overall sound and feel of the switch in its own distinctive way.
Weight
The SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch offer contrasting experiences when it comes to actuation force and bottom out force. The Meteor Orange has no specified actuation force, making it unknown, while its bottom out force is at 57 grams, which classifies it as medium-light. On the other hand, the Milk Tea has an actuation force of 37.5 grams, making it relatively light, and a bottom out force of 43.5 grams. In terms of weight, the Milk Tea is lighter compared to the Meteor Orange. For those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing or gaming sessions, the Milk Tea would be a suitable choice. In contrast, individuals who desire a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push may opt for the Meteor Orange. Ultimately, the actuation and bottom out forces play a crucial role in determining the typing experience and overall feel of a keyboard switch.
Travel distance
The SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch has a travel distance of 3.6 mm. In this case, the Milk Tea has the shorter travel distance compared to the Meteor Orange. The 0.4 mm difference might not be significant to some users, but it can affect the overall typing or gaming experience. Generally, a shorter travel distance like the Milk Tea provides faster response times, which is preferred by gamers. On the other hand, a longer travel distance like the Meteor Orange may offer a more satisfying and tactile typing experience for those who enjoy a deeper keypress. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and typing feel.
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 PH Studio Milk Tea has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milk Tea for $4.00.
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 SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch produces a neutral and thocky sound, offering a moderate actuation force requirement with a satisfying deep thud when pressed. On the other hand, the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, creating a sharp and crisp sound when typing. Both switches provide unique auditory experiences, with the Meteor Orange being more neutral and the Milk Tea being more vibrant and percussive.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Meteor Orange tactile switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, with a gentle tactility that is approachable to most users. The switch is described as having a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction. Conversely, the Milk Tea linear switch also boasts a polished feel, offering a silky smooth typing experience with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. Both switches provide a comfortable typing experience, with the Meteor Orange being more on the gentle side and the Milk Tea being exceptionally smooth.
Overall, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities. While the Meteor Orange provides a soft and seductive tactility with a neutral and thocky sound profile, the Milk Tea presents a unique auditory blend with a clacky and high-pitched sound. The Meteor Orange focuses on a gentle typing experience, while the Milk Tea prioritizes smoothness and ease of keystrokes. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing style.
Conclusion
In closing, when selecting between the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the PH Studio Milk Tea linear switch, consider the factors of sound, feel, and bottom-out force. If you prefer a switch with a moderate actuation force and a neutral sound profile, the Meteor Orange may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you are seeking a switch with a lighter bottom-out force and a unique auditory blend of high-pitched yet muted tones, the Milk Tea could be the ideal option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the specific requirements of your typing environment.
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