SP-Star Meteor Orange vs. KTT Orange
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the KTT Orange 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 KTT Orange. The Meteor Orange switches are known for their exquisitely gentle tactility and neutral sound profile. They fall under the category of being 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the KTT Orange switches offer a bouncy typing experience with their 22mm long spring and polycarbonate milky top housing. These switches have a frictionless feel and produce a low-pitched sound. Categorized as 'Bouncy', 'Frictionless', and 'Low-pitched', they offer a smooth and refined key travel experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can decide on the best switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
53g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the KTT Orange switches differ significantly. The Meteor Orange utilizes a nylon top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the KTT Orange features a polycarbonate top housing. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound. Its clear translucency makes it ideal for RGB lighting, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal. Despite these differences, both switches provide unique sound characteristics, catering to individual preferences.
Similarly, the bottom housings of the Meteor Orange and the KTT Orange exhibit distinct properties. The Meteor Orange's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound experience. Its softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. In contrast, the KTT Orange's polycarbonate bottom housing offers a sharper and higher-pitched sound. The polycarbonate's stiffness enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound. These variations between the two switches allow users to choose the housing material that best suits their typing style and desired sound output.
When using a switch with different top and bottom housings, the qualities of each material are divided between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing primarily influences the bottom-out sound and feel, affecting the experience when pressing down on the switch. Conversely, the top housing plays a more significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. This distinction demonstrates how the choice of housing material can affect both the auditory and tactile aspects of typing, allowing users to customize their keyboard experience to their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the KTT Orange linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The actuation force of the Meteor Orange is unavailable, while the actuation force of the Orange is 46 grams. This indicates that the Orange requires a slightly lighter touch to trigger a keystroke. However, both switches have similar bottom out forces, with the Meteor Orange measuring at 57 grams and the Orange at 53 grams. This means that once the keys are pressed all the way down, there is a similar level of resistance for both switches. In terms of weight, the Meteor Orange is heavier due to its bottom out force, while the Orange is lighter in comparison. This can have implications for typing comfort and endurance, as some users may prefer the lighter weight of the Orange for prolonged typing sessions, while others may opt for the heavier Meteor Orange for a more substantial typing experience. Overall, both switches offer medium-light actuation forces, but the Meteor Orange provides a slightly heavier bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Meteor Orange tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional depth for a switch. In contrast, the KTT Orange linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. It is worth noting that both switches offer a decent amount of travel distance, providing a satisfying tactile feedback when typing or gaming.
Gamers, in particular, may prefer the shorter travel distance offered by the KTT Orange linear switch. The shorter travel distance can result in faster response times, which is crucial for competitive gaming. This allows gamers to act quickly and make rapid keystrokes without having to overcome a large distance. On the other hand, the longer travel distance of the Meteor Orange tactile switch may be preferred by individuals who appreciate a deeper and more substantial keystroke. The extra 0.5 mm can give a more pronounced feeling with each press, making it suitable for those who value a satisfying tactile experience.
In conclusion, the Meteor Orange tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the KTT Orange linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. Both switches offer their own advantages depending on personal preferences. If you prioritize a shorter and quicker keystroke for gaming, the KTT Orange linear switch may be the better choice. However, if you prefer a deeper and more pronounced keystroke, the Meteor Orange tactile switch would be a suitable option. Ultimately, it comes down to individual preferences and the desired experience when typing or gaming.
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 KTT Orange has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Orange 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
The SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch is best known for its soft and seductive tactility, providing a gentle typing experience. It has a neutral sound profile, which means it produces a moderate sound when pressed, suitable for most intents and purposes. The KTT Orange linear switch, on the other hand, features a bouncy type feel due to its 22mm long spring. It offers a slick and frictionless typing experience, with a low-pitched sound profile that gives a bass-heavy and mellow tone. Both switches provide smooth key travel, with the Meteor Orange having a polished finish for a refined typing experience and the KTT Orange being factory-lubed to minimize friction. Overall, while the sound and feel of the two switches may differ, they both offer a pleasant typing experience with their own unique characteristics.
Conclusion
In summary, if you prioritize a softer and more seductive tactility with a neutral sound profile, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch would be an excellent choice for you. These switches have a medium-light bottom out force of 57 grams, providing a gentle typing experience. Additionally, they produce either a neutral or thocky sound, which can be satisfying to many typists.
On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncy and frictionless typing experience with a low-pitched sound profile, the KTT Orange linear switch would be a great option. These switches have a slightly lower bottom out force of 53 grams, making them equally suitable for a smooth and comfortable typing experience. With its long pole POM stem and excellent factory-lubing, you can expect a slick and fluid key travel with minimal friction.
Ultimately, the decision between the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the KTT Orange switches depends on your personal preferences in terms of tactile feedback, sound profile, and typing experience. Consider how much importance you place on each of these factors and choose accordingly. Regardless of your choice, both switches offer high-quality performance and can enhance your typing experience.
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