SP-Star Meteor Orange vs. Kailh NovelKeys Cream
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that immediately stand out are the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches. The Meteor Orange switches are widely acclaimed for their exquisite gentleness, providing a soft and seductive tactility. With a neutral sound profile, these switches fall under the categories of 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Cream switches from NovelKeys offer a truly unique typing experience characterized by their heftier linear action. Typing on these switches produces a fairly deep sound profile, surpassing the average switch without becoming overly intrusive. Categorized as 'Buttery', 'Low-pitched', 'Textured', 'Resonant', and 'Invigorating', the NovelKeys Cream switches guarantee a refreshing and invigorating typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best-informed decision to find the perfect switch for your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches have different housing materials for both the top and bottom parts of the switch. The Meteor Orange utilizes a nylon top housing, which is known for its softer plastic and ability to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Cream features a POM top housing, which creates a unique and pleasing sound that is deeper and relatively more muted compared to nylon.
In terms of the bottom housing, both switches use nylon material. This common housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches. Nylon's softer plastic nature allows it to absorb more sound than harder plastics, enhancing the switch's overall sound quality. Therefore, users can expect similar results in terms of sound profile between the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream, as both switches use nylon for the bottom housing.
However, it's important to note that the top and bottom housings of a switch play different roles in determining the sound and feel. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, whereas the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. Therefore, despite the similarities in the housing materials for the bottom housing between the two switches, the choice of top housing material, nylon for the Meteor Orange and POM for the NovelKeys Cream, will result in differences in the sound produced when a key is released.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch, there are noticeable differences in both the actuation force and bottom out force. The Meteor Orange has an uncertain actuation force, making it difficult to determine how it compares to the NovelKeys Cream's 55 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Meteor Orange is 57 grams, which falls in the medium-light category. In contrast, the NovelKeys Cream has a slightly lighter actuation force of 55 grams but a heavier bottom out force of 70 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy.
Considering weight, individuals who prefer a lighter switch may appreciate the Meteor Orange as it would allow for longer typing durations, making it suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the NovelKeys Cream, which requires a stronger push due to its higher bottom out force.
It is worth mentioning that although the actuation force of the Meteor Orange is unknown, it is possible that it might still yield similar results to the NovelKeys Cream in terms of actuation. However, the bottom out force of the NovelKeys Cream is notably heavier, providing a different typing experience overall.
Travel distance
Both the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch have the same travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. It is worth noting that the travel distance is the distance you feel when pressing a key, so both of these switches provide a consistent and satisfying tactile feedback throughout their 4mm of travel.
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 Kailh NovelKeys Cream has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the NovelKeys Cream for $6.25.
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 provides a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes, whether for beginners or advanced users, and whether for use at home or work. These switches also have a thocky sound, producing a deep and satisfying sound when pressed and released. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch offers a low-pitched sound, featuring a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. The typing experience on these switches is also resonant, providing a higher-pitched sound profile and an immersive auditory experience. It is important to note that the sound of the switch can also be affected by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch offers a mild and polished typing experience. It provides a gentle typing experience with a safe, middle-ground feel that most users would find approachable. Additionally, these switches have a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch offers a buttery and textured feel. It provides a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, offering a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Some users may prefer the slight texture that these switches provide, while others may prefer a smoother, friction-free typing experience. Furthermore, the NovelKeys Cream switch is also described as invigorating, offering pronounced feedback, moderate to firm actuation force, and a snappy and reactive feel that creates an immersive typing sensation.
In conclusion, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Cream linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Meteor Orange tactile switch provides a neutral and thocky sound profile, while the NovelKeys Cream linear switch offers a low-pitched and resonant sound profile. In terms of feel, the Meteor Orange switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, while the NovelKeys Cream switch provides a buttery, textured, and invigorating feel. Both switches provide unique experiences that cater to different preferences. However, if you are looking for a similar typing experience, the NovelKeys Cream switch can provide a comparable smoothness and a level of tactility similar to the Meteor Orange switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a soft and gentle tactile switch with a moderate actuation force, the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches would be a great choice. They have a neutral sound profile that makes them suitable for both beginners and advanced users in various environments. With their mild and polished feel, the key travel will be smooth and refined, providing you with a sleek typing experience.
However, if you prefer a heftier linear typing experience with a deeper sound profile, the Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches would be more suitable for you. They have a bottom out force that is medium-heavy, giving you a solid and satisfying feel when typing on them. The Cream switches have a low-pitched and resonant sound profile, creating a mellow yet immersive auditory experience.
Ultimately, the decision between the SP-Star Meteor Orange and Kailh NovelKeys Cream switches will depend on your personal preferences and typing style. Consider whether you prefer a tactile or linear switch, the desired actuation force, and the sound and feel that you find most appealing. By considering these factors, you will be able to choose the right switch that enhances your typing experience. In the end, both switches offer unique qualities that make them excellent options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
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