SP-Star Meteor Orange vs. Cherry MX Silent Red
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Cherry MX Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Cherry MX Silent Red offer unique features to cater to different preferences. The Meteor Orange is a tactile switch that is praised for its gentle tactility and neutral sound profile, making it a soothing option for those who enjoy a softer typing experience. On the other hand, the MX Silent Red is a linear switch that retains the characteristics of the popular MX Red switch but with the added benefit of operating silently. This makes it an excellent choice for individuals who prefer a quieter typing environment without sacrificing the satisfying typing feel. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
Both the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Cherry MX Silent Red utilize nylon as their housing material, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Nylon's softer composition absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This similarity in material between the two switches ensures that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound output.
In terms of housing design, the nylon top housing of both switches plays a significant role in the sound produced when a key is released. The nylon top housing's softer nature helps create a more muted and rounded sound compared to switches with harder plastic housings. This characteristic can lead to a more satisfying typing experience for users who prefer a quieter keyboard. Additionally, the use of nylon in the bottom housing of the switches further enhances the overall sound profile, contributing to a deeper and fuller sound quality during typing.
While both the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Cherry MX Silent Red share similar housing materials, the differences in design between their top and bottom housings impact the tactile and auditory experience of typing on the switches. The split qualities between the top and bottom housings influence the sound and feel of pressing down on a key and releasing it. Users can expect a harmonious blend of sound and tactility from both switches, highlighting the importance of housing materials in determining the overall typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch differ in weight. The Meteor Orange requires None grams of actuation force and 57 grams of bottom out force, making it a medium-light switch. In contrast, the MX Silent Red has an actuation force of 45 grams, with the bottom out force being unknown. Comparing the two, the Meteor Orange is lighter in terms of bottom out force, while the actuation force of the MX Silent Red is lighter. This means that the Meteor Orange may be more preferable for those looking for a lighter typing experience, while the MX Silent Red could appeal to those seeking a slightly stronger push feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. In this case, the MX Silent Red has a shorter travel distance compared to the Meteor Orange. The Meteor Orange provides a slightly longer keypress experience, which can be preferred by those who enjoy a deeper, more satisfying keystroke. On the other hand, the MX Silent Red offers a shorter travel distance, which may be advantageous for individuals looking for faster response times, such as gamers. Both switches offer a balance between distance and tactility, ensuring a comfortable typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired 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 Cherry MX Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
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 offers a neutral and thocky sound profile, making it suitable for various environments and preferences. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch provides a muted and low-pitched sound, ensuring a quieter typing experience especially in noise-sensitive areas. Both switches have a thocky quality, offering a deep and satisfying sound when pressed and released. Ultimately, the sound produced by these switches will also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Meteor Orange switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, offering a gentle and smooth key travel that is approachable to most users. In contrast, the Cherry MX Silent Red switch is described as textured, indicating noticeable friction when pressed. Some users may prefer the subtle texture of the Silent Red switch, while others may opt for the smoother feel of the Meteor Orange switch. Overall, the feel of these switches will affect the overall typing experience and comfort level of the user.
In conclusion, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences and needs. While the Meteor Orange switch provides a softer and gentle tactility with a neutral sound profile, the MX Silent Red switch offers a quieter typing experience with a slightly heavier feel. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing dynamics. Both switches are designed to provide a satisfying typing experience and are suitable for various usage scenarios.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when considering whether to choose the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch or the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and needs. If you enjoy a gentle and seductive tactility with a neutral sound profile, the Meteor Orange would be a great choice. However, if you prefer a slightly heftier feel with a significantly quieter sound profile, especially in noise-sensitive environments, then the MX Silent Red would be the better option for you. Both switches have their own unique characteristics and benefits, so it is important to consider what aspects are most important to you when selecting the ideal switch for your mechanical keyboard. Ultimately, the decision is yours to make based on what typing experience you desire.
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