SP-Star Meteor Orange vs. TTC Neptune
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the TTC Neptune switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding between the SP-Star Meteor Orange, a tactile switch, and the TTC Neptune, a linear switch, it really comes down to the type of typing experience you prefer. The Meteor Orange offers a gentle and soft tactility paired with a neutral sound profile, ideal for those who enjoy a polished and thocky typing experience. On the other hand, the Neptune stands out for its innovative internal structure that provides a smooth, almost frictionless glide coupled with a springy resistance that brings to mind chewy delights like mochi or tapioca pearls. This unique combination gives the Neptune a matte feel and ensures swift, effortless typing with a muted sound signature. Ultimately, the decision boils down to personal preference, so 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
41g
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
3.80 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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Lengthened 21.5mm spring
Housing materials
The SP-Star Meteor Orange and TTC Neptune both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. While the Meteor Orange utilizes nylon for its top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound, the Neptune opts for POM top housing to create a more muted and deeper sound profile. In this aspect, the two switches offer different auditory experiences to typists, with the Nylon offering a rounder sound compared to the POM's quieter tones.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Meteor Orange once again employs nylon, emphasizing a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the Neptune utilizes polycarbonate for a crisper and higher-pitched sound. The differences in housing materials here lead to varying tactile experiences when pressing down on the switches, with the polycarbonate bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel more significantly in the Neptune. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the Neptune's bottom housing allows for enhanced aesthetics, especially when coupled with RGB lighting.
While the housing materials for the top and bottom differ in both the SP-Star Meteor Orange and TTC Neptune, the impact of each material is felt in different aspects of typing. The top housing influences the sound produced when releasing a key, while the bottom housing has a more noticeable effect on the sound and feel when pressing a key down. Despite these differences, both switches offer unique typing experiences due to the distinct properties of their housing materials, whether it be the deeper and fuller sound profile of nylon in the Meteor Orange or the sharper and crisper sound of polycarbonate in the Neptune.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, it is evident that the Neptune is the lighter option between the two. The Meteor Orange has a bottom out force of 57 grams, which is heavier than the Neptune's 50 grams. However, when it comes to actuation force, the Neptune requires 41 grams, while the Meteor Orange's actuation force is unknown. Both switches provide a different typing experience due to their varying weight requirements. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Neptune switch, which allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Meteor Orange switch offers a more substantial typing experience with its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on the individual's preference for actuation force and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the TTC Neptune linear switch has a travel distance of 3.8 mm. In this case, the Meteor Orange has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Neptune. Typically, a 4.0mm travel distance is considered more traditional, offering a balance between depth and responsiveness. On the other hand, a 3.8mm travel distance is slightly shorter, which might appeal to those looking for faster response times, such as gamers. Both switches provide a tactile feel, but the slight difference in travel distance may impact the overall typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches comes down to 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 TTC Neptune has an MSRP of $7.99 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Neptune for $5.09.
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 a wide range of users and environments. On the other hand, the TTC Neptune linear switch boasts a low-pitched, muted, subdued, and thocky sound, creating a more bass-heavy, mellow, and refined auditory experience. Both switches provide a pleasant typing sound depending on personal preferences, with the Neptune leaning towards a quieter and more subdued profile compared to the Meteor Orange.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, offering a gentle and refined feel suitable for a wide range of users. In contrast, the TTC Neptune linear switch is described as buttery, gummy, frictionless, mild, and polished, providing a smooth, fluid, and effortless typing sensation with minimal resistance or friction. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, with the Neptune leaning towards a more seamless and smooth feel compared to the Meteor Orange.
In conclusion, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch each offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Meteor Orange provides a soft and seductive tactility with a neutral and thocky sound, while the Neptune offers a smooth, almost frictionless glide with a harmonious balance between resistance and glide. Depending on personal preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the gentle and neutral Meteor Orange or the buttery and frictionless experience of the Neptune. Ultimately, both switches provide a premium typing experience that will satisfy users looking for quality and comfort in their mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the TTC Neptune linear switch, consider your preference for bottom out force. If you prefer medium-light switches, the Meteor Orange with a bottom out force of 57 grams may be more fitting. If you prefer lighter switches, the Neptune with a bottom out force of 50 grams would be a better choice. Additionally, if you appreciate a gentle and soft tactility with a neutral sound profile, the Meteor Orange would be ideal. On the other hand, if you seek a smooth, almost frictionless typing experience with a unique springy resistance reminiscent of chewy textures, the Neptune would be a perfect match. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and desired sound and feel.
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