SP-Star Meteor Orange vs. Outemu Blue
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Outemu Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch to the Outemu Blue clicky switch, it's clear that both offer distinct advantages depending on individual preferences. The Meteor Orange is praised for its gentle tactility and subdued sound profile, making it a great choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue is known for its satisfying clicky feedback, ideal for typists who enjoy the audible confirmation of each key press. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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 Blue, one can see a stark difference in the type of plastic used. The Meteor Orange features a nylon top housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer properties that absorb more sound. On the other hand, the Blue uses a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile. This contrast in sound characteristics highlights how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall typing experience for users.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Meteor Orange and the Blue utilize nylon in this component. Nylon is praised for its ability to create a deep and rich sound profile by absorbing more sound compared to harder plastics. Therefore, despite the differences in the top housing material, the use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches contributes to a similar typing experience in terms of sound. This similarity in sound quality between the two switches showcases how the choice of housing material can play a crucial role in determining the overall sound profile and typing feel of a mechanical keyboard switch.
It's important to note that the qualities of the top and bottom housings of a switch will impact different aspects of the typing experience. The bottom housing has a greater influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing will affect the sound when a key is released. This distinction emphasizes the importance of having compatible housing materials that work together harmoniously to create a cohesive sound profile and typing feel. Ultimately, the differences in housing materials between the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Outemu Blue demonstrate how varying material choices can lead to unique sound profiles and typing experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
In comparing the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, we can see that the actuation force and bottom out force differ between the two. The Meteor Orange has no specified actuation force, while its bottom out force is 57 grams, making it a medium-light switch. On the other hand, the Blue switch has an actuation force of 50 grams, with no information provided for its bottom out force. The lighter actuation force of the Blue switch makes it more responsive for typing, while the heavier bottom out force of the Meteor Orange provides a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing feel.
Travel distance
The SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches offer a consistent amount of key travel, providing a familiar feel for users when typing or gaming. With their equivalent travel distances, users can expect similar results in terms of key actuation and overall typing experience. The Meteor Orange and Blue switches both provide a satisfying amount of feedback during use, making them popular choices among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. While some switches may vary in their travel distances, these two options offer a balanced amount of key travel for an enjoyable typing experience.
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 Blue 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
The SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch is known for its gentle and soft tactility, making it a favorite among users for its mild and refined typing experience. This switch offers a polished feel with smooth key travel, perfect for those looking for a comfortable and approachable typing experience. In terms of sound, the Meteor Orange switch has a neutral sound profile, suitable for both beginners and advanced users alike. The switch produces a thocky sound, giving off a deep and satisfying "thud" when pressed. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue clicky switch does not have any specific sound or feel descriptors provided, making it difficult to compare directly. However, it is important to note that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used. Overall, both switches may offer similar results in terms of feel and sound quality, but the SP-Star Meteor Orange switch stands out for its specifically described qualities, making it a popular choice among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-light bottom out force, a soft and seductive tactility, and a neutral sound profile, then the SP-Star Meteor Orange switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a bottom out force that is not listed, the Outemu Blue switch might be more up your alley. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound. Whether you prioritize a gentle typing experience or the satisfying click of a clicky switch, both the Meteor Orange and Blue switches have unique qualities that cater to different needs.
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