SP-Star Meteor Orange vs. Outemu Blue Jade
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Outemu Blue Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch with the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, it's important to consider your preferences in typing experience. The Meteor Orange is praised for its gentle tactility and neutral sound profile, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a soft typing feel. On the other hand, the Blue Jade offers a clicky feedback without any specific standout features. If you're someone who values a quieter typing experience with a subtle tactile feel, the Meteor Orange may be the switch for you. Conversely, if you prefer a more pronounced clicky feedback, the Blue Jade could be the better option. 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
65g
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
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
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
The housing materials of the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Outemu Blue Jade switches are both made of nylon, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile. The relatively softer plastic of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound when typing on these switches. This shared material contributes to the overall typing experience with both switches, providing a satisfying sound and feel.
While both switches have nylon top and bottom housings, the distribution of these materials can impact the typing experience differently. The qualities of the bottom housing of a switch will have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. Conversely, the top housing will influence the sound when releasing a key. Despite this difference in distribution, the nylon material in both the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Outemu Blue Jade switches contributes to a consistent typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound.
The similarity in housing materials between the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Outemu Blue Jade switches ensures that users can expect similar sound profiles and typing experiences from both. The nylon material's ability to absorb sound and create a duller, rounder sound contributes to a satisfying typing experience with both switches. Whether typing on the Meteor Orange or the Blue Jade, users can enjoy the deeper sound profile and softer feel that nylon housing provides, making both switches a reliable choice for those seeking a consistent and enjoyable typing experience.
Weight
The SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch showcase notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Meteor Orange has an actuation force of None grams, making it extremely light, while the Blue Jade requires 50 grams to actuate. On the other hand, when it comes to bottoming out, the Meteor Orange has a force of 57 grams, which is medium-light, whereas the Blue Jade bottoms out at 65 grams, making it medium-heavy. Those who prefer a lighter touch may gravitate towards the Meteor Orange for extended typing or gaming sessions, while those seeking a more substantial typing experience may find the heavier force of the Blue Jade to be more satisfying. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
Both the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This similarity ensures that users can expect a consistent tactile feedback and typing experience regardless of which switch they choose. In terms of travel distance, there is no distinguishable difference between the two switches.
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 Jade 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 and thocky typing experience, making it suitable for a wide range of users and environments. The Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, on the other hand, does not have a specific sound descriptor provided, so it's hard to compare directly. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
Moving on to feel, the SP-Star Meteor Orange switch is described as mild and polished, providing a gentle typing experience with smooth key travel. These qualities make it a comfortable option for users looking for a moderate and refined typing feel. The Outemu Blue Jade switch does not have a specific feel descriptor provided, so it's challenging to directly compare their tactile qualities.
In conclusion, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile, a mild typing feel, and a polished finish. On the other hand, information on the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch's sound and feel qualities is not available. If you are looking for a gentle and subtle typing experience, the Meteor Orange switch may be the better choice based on the information provided. However, ultimately, the best switch for you will depend on personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, you should consider your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prefer a softer and more gentle tactility with a medium-light bottom out force, the Meteor Orange would be a great choice. It also offers a neutral sound profile and smooth key travel, making it suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, if you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force and a clicky sound profile, the Blue Jade might be the better option for you. Ultimately, the decision should be based on what feels most comfortable and enjoyable for your typing experience.