SP-Star Meteor Orange vs. Outemu Crystal Brown
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Outemu Crystal Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Outemu Crystal Brown mechanical keyboard switches, it ultimately comes down to your preferences and typing style. The Meteor Orange is praised for its exquisitively gentle and soft tactility, making it a popular choice for those who appreciate a more subtle tactile feedback while typing. On the other hand, the Crystal Brown switch doesn't have a specific standout feature, but is known for being a reliable and versatile option. While the Meteor Orange is categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', 'Polished', the Crystal Brown does not have any specific categories associated with it. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
55g
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
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 Crystal Brown, it is evident that they both utilize different materials for their top housings. The Meteor Orange features a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. In contrast, the Crystal Brown incorporates a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound profile attributed to its stiffer plastic composition. While both materials offer unique sound characteristics, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound aesthetics.
On the other hand, when we look at the bottom housings of the Meteor Orange and Crystal Brown, we see a similarity in their material composition. Both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housings, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound than harder plastics. This shared characteristic between the two switches showcases the importance of the bottom housing in determining the overall sound experience of a switch. Despite differences in their top housings, the consistent use of nylon for the bottom housings ensures a similar sound quality in terms of depth and resonance for both the Meteor Orange and Crystal Brown switches.
Overall, the contrasting top housings of nylon and polycarbonate in the Meteor Orange and Crystal Brown switches result in distinct sound profiles that cater to varying preferences in sound aesthetics. While the Meteor Orange offers a duller and rounder sound with its nylon top housing, the Crystal Brown provides a clearer and more resonant sound with its polycarbonate top housing. However, both switches share a commonality in their use of nylon for the bottom housings, ensuring a consistent deep and full sound experience regardless of the differences in their top housings. Ultimately, the choice between the Meteor Orange and Crystal Brown housing materials depends on individual preferences for sound characteristics and aesthetics.
Weight
In comparing the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, it is evident that both switches fall under the category of medium-light in terms of force, with the Meteor Orange having a bottom out force of 57 grams and the Crystal Brown having a bottom out force of 55 grams. The actuation force of the Crystal Brown is slightly heavier at 45 grams, while the Meteor Orange's actuation force is unknown. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Crystal Brown more suitable due to its slightly lower actuation force, while those who enjoy a slightly stronger push feel may lean towards the Meteor Orange. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for typing experience and comfort.
Travel distance
Both the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switches have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that regardless of which switch you choose, you can expect to feel the same amount of travel distance when pressing down on a key. This similarity in travel distance between the two switches ensures that you will get similar results in terms of key feel and overall typing experience. The consistent 4 mm travel distance makes both switches ideal choices for those who prefer a standard key press depth. Ultimately, the only difference between the two switches lies in their tactile characteristics and actuation force, rather than their 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 Crystal Brown 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 various environments and users, whether beginners or experienced typists. On the other hand, the Outemu Crystal Brown switch's sound qualities are unknown. Keep in mind that the sound produced by a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard's build and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch is praised for its mild and polished characteristics. This means that users can enjoy a gentle typing experience with smooth and refined key presses, thanks to reduced friction and smooth key travel. As for the Outemu Crystal Brown, there is no information available on its tactile feel.
Overall, while the subjective qualities of the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch are detailed and show its gentle tactile feel and neutral sound profile, the information on the Outemu Crystal Brown switch is lacking. If you enjoy a soft and seductive tactility with a moderate sound profile, the Meteor Orange may be the right choice for you. However, if you are considering the Crystal Brown switch, further research or testing may be needed to determine its suitability for your preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Outemu Crystal Brown tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a slightly higher bottom out force and enjoy a gentle and seductive tactility with a neutral sound profile, then the Meteor Orange switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a switch with a slightly lower bottom out force and prefer a more subtle typing experience without any specific sound or feel characteristics, then the Crystal Brown switch may be the better option for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and actuation force.
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