SP-Star Meteor Orange vs. Outemu Black
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Outemu Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch with the Outemu Black linear switch, it's important to consider the differences in feel and sound. The Meteor Orange switches are praised for their gentle tactility and neutral sound profile, offering a smooth and satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Black switches offer a linear feel without any tactile bump, providing a consistent keystroke from top to bottom. While the Meteor Orange switches are categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', and 'Polished', the Outemu Black switches do not have any specific categorizations. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference and typing style. 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
65g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
82g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Outemu Black, one key difference lies in the material used for the top housing. The Meteor Orange utilizes nylon, known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature and sound-absorbing properties. On the other hand, the Black features a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile attributed to its stiffer nature. While both materials have their advantages, the choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the Meteor Orange and the Black utilize nylon for this component. This classic switch housing material also contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer nature that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. While the bottom housing may not have as large of an impact on the overall sound profile as the top housing, the consistent use of nylon in this component ensures a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel for both switches.
In considering the impact of having different top and bottom housing materials, it's important to note that each component plays a role in the overall sound profile of the switch. The bottom housing typically affects the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing a key, while the top housing has more of an impact on the sound when releasing a key. Despite the variation in materials between the top and bottom housings of the Meteor Orange and the Black, users can expect similar typing experiences due to the shared use of nylon in the bottom housing, creating a consistent sound profile across both switches.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Outemu Black linear switch, it is clear that the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in the typing experience. The Meteor Orange has a lower actuation force of None grams, making it lighter and easier to trigger keystrokes quickly. In contrast, the Outemu Black requires a higher actuation force of 65 grams, providing a more substantial typing feel. When it comes to bottom out force, the Meteor Orange has a medium-light 57 grams force, while the Outemu Black has a heavier 82 grams force. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Meteor Orange, as it allows for longer typing sessions with less fatigue. On the other hand, individuals looking for a more substantial and tactile typing experience may opt for the Outemu Black due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces.Overall, the choice between the two switches ultimately depends on the user's preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Outemu Black linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel from the top to the bottom. As a result, you can expect similar tactile feedback and typing experience from both switches. Despite the similarities in travel distance, the differences in their tactile and linear characteristics will influence how the typing experience feels overall. Whether you prefer the tactile bump of the Meteor Orange or the smooth keystrokes of the Outemu Black, both switches offer a comfortable typing experience with consistent travel distance.
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 Outemu Black comes in at $3.10 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
When it comes to sound, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. In contrast, the Outemu Black linear switch does not have a specified sound profile, so it may not be as predictable in terms of noise level. However, keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the type of keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to feel, the Meteor Orange switch is known for its mild tactility, offering a gentle typing experience that falls within a safe middle-ground zone. Additionally, it is described as having a polished finish, resulting in smooth key travel and reduced friction. On the other hand, the Outemu Black switch does not have any specific feel descriptors provided. This lack of detail may indicate that the feel of the Black switch is more straightforward and less nuanced compared to the Meteor Orange.
Taking all the available information into consideration, the SP-Star Meteor Orange switch offers a gentle and polished typing experience with a neutral sound profile. In contrast, the Outemu Black switch lacks detailed descriptions of its sound and feel characteristics. As such, while both switches may provide satisfactory results for users seeking a tactile or linear switch, the Meteor Orange switch appears to offer a more refined and versatile typing experience overall.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Outemu Black linear switch, consider your preferences for typing feel and actuation force. If you prioritize a gentle and tactile typing experience with a medium-light actuation force, the Meteor Orange switch may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier actuation force and a linear switch without tactile feedback, the Outemu Black switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and typing style, so choose the switch that aligns best with your needs and preferences.
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