SP-Star Meteor Orange vs. Cherry MX Brown
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Cherry MX Brown 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 Cherry MX Brown. While both switches fall under the tactile category, they offer different qualities and characteristics. The Meteor Orange switches are renowned for their exquisite gentleness, providing a soft and seductive tactility without being too overwhelming. Additionally, they possess a neutral sound profile that ensures a pleasant typing experience. On the other hand, the MX Brown switches are best known for their subtlety. These switches offer a relatively light typing experience with gentle tactility and subdued audio feedback. They are characterized by a textured feel and a low-pitched sound. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so that you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
No
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Cherry MX Brown switches share many similarities due to both switches utilizing nylon for their top and bottom housings. Nylon is known as a classic switch housing material that enhances the sound profile of typing on switches. Both switches offer a deeper and fuller sound profile as nylon, being a relatively softer plastic, absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This absorption creates a more rounded and duller sound, providing a unique typing experience for users.
While the nylon housing materials of both switches provide similar sound profiles, the Meteor Orange and MX Brown may have slight differences in the overall typing experience. If the top and bottom housings are different for a given switch, the qualities of each housing material will be split between the top and bottom. When pressing down on the Meteor Orange switch, the qualities of the bottom housing will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. This distinction in the impact of the top and bottom housing materials can result in a nuanced typing experience between the two switches.
In conclusion, although the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Cherry MX Brown switches share the same nylon housing materials, their overall typing experiences may vary slightly due to the distribution of these materials between the top and bottom housings. Both switches offer the benefits of a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to the sound-absorbing nature of nylon. Whether you choose the Meteor Orange or MX Brown, you can expect a unique and satisfying typing experience with the subtle nuances brought about by their respective housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. In terms of actuation force, the information for the Meteor Orange switch is unavailable, while the MX Brown has an actuation force of 45 grams. Both switches can be considered medium-light in terms of actuation force.
However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Meteor Orange has a bottom out force of 57 grams, which is slightly heavier than the MX Brown switch's bottom out force of 55 grams. This means that the Meteor Orange requires a slightly stronger push to fully press down compared to the MX Brown switch.
Considering weight preferences, individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience for prolonged periods may lean towards the MX Brown due to its lower actuation and bottom out forces. This makes it suitable for work or long gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who seek a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may find the Meteor Orange switch appealing. Although the exact actuation force for the Meteor Orange switch is unknown, it is likely to provide a heavier feel compared to the MX Brown.
Overall, while the specific actuation force of the Meteor Orange switch remains unavailable, it can be deduced that the MX Brown is lighter in terms of actuation force. However, the Meteor Orange requires a slightly stronger push for bottoming out. The choice between these switches ultimately depends on individual preferences for typing or gaming experiences.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch is an important factor to consider when it comes to typing or gaming experience. In the case of the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, both switches have a travel distance of 4mm. This means that the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom is the same for both switches. As a result, users can expect similar results in terms of the tactile feedback and overall typing or gaming experience when using either switch.
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 Cherry MX Brown comes in at $4.00 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
In terms of sound, the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches have a neutral sound profile. This means that they have a moderate actuation force requirement and produce a moderate sound when pressed. The sound is not too loud or too quiet, making it suitable for most purposes, whether it be for a beginner or advanced user, or for use at home or work. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown switches have a bassy sound profile. This means that they offer a deeper and richer sound during key presses, resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Additionally, they have a low-pitched tone, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow sound compared to higher-pitched switches. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches are described as mild. This means that they offer a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The tactility and sound of these switches are approachable to most users, as their qualities stand in a safe middle-ground zone. Furthermore, the Meteor Orange switches are polished, which indicates a smooth and refined finish. This results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Brown switches are described as textured. This means that these switches have noticeable friction when pressed. Some users prefer this subtle texture, while others prefer a smoother and friction-free typing experience.
In conclusion, both the SP-Star Meteor Orange and Cherry MX Brown switches offer tactile feedback, making them suitable for users who prefer a tactile typing experience. However, they differ in sound and feel. The Meteor Orange switches have a neutral sound profile and a mild and polished feel. They provide a soft and seductive tactility and a neutral sound that is suitable for most intents and purposes. On the other hand, the MX Brown switches have a bassy sound profile with low-pitched tones and a textured feel. The sound is deeper and richer, and the texture provides noticeable friction when pressed. Depending on personal preferences, either switch can provide a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific qualities you value in a switch.
If you prioritize a soft and seductive tactility with a neutral sound profile, the Meteor Orange switches are an excellent choice. With a bottom out force of 57 grams, these switches offer a medium-light typing experience that is gentle on the fingers. Additionally, the Meteor Orange switches have a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction.
On the other hand, if you prefer subtlety and a relatively light typing experience, the Cherry MX Brown switches are worth considering. With a bottom out force of 55 grams, these switches offer a similarly medium-light feel that is comfortable for extended typing sessions. The MX Brown switches have a textured feel, which may be preferred by some users who appreciate noticeable friction.
When it comes to sound, the Meteor Orange switches have a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement. This makes them suitable for various purposes and environments. On the other hand, the MX Brown switches offer a bassy and low-pitched sound profile, which can provide a deeper and richer audio feedback during key presses.
Overall, the decision between the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Cherry MX Brown tactile switch depends on your personal preferences for tactility, sound, and typing experience. Consider their respective qualities and choose the switch that aligns with your specific needs and preferences.
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