SP-Star Meteor Orange vs. Outemu Dustproof Blue
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Outemu Dustproof Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch that suits your typing preferences, the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Outemu Dustproof Blue offer unique qualities to consider. The Meteor Orange switch is praised for its gentle and soft tactility, which provides for a satisfying typing experience with a neutral sound profile. On the other hand, the Dustproof Blue switch is known for its clicky feedback without any specific standout qualities mentioned. Choosing the Meteor Orange switch may appeal to those who prefer a subtle and polished typing experience, while the Dustproof Blue switch could be a great option for individuals who enjoy the audible feedback of a clicky switch. 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
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 Dustproof Blue, one key difference lies in the material used for the top housing. The Meteor Orange utilizes nylon for its top housing, creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer plastic absorbing more sound. In contrast, the Dustproof Blue features a polycarbonate top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched sound profile that is clear and resonant. This distinction in top housing materials leads to a noticeable difference in sound and typing experience between the two switches.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, both the Meteor Orange and Dustproof Blue utilize nylon material. This commonality means that both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon's softer plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This similarity in bottom housing material suggests that the typing experience and sound produced by pressing down on the keys will be quite similar between the two switches. Despite differences in the top housing material, the shared use of nylon for the bottom housing creates a consistent experience in terms of sound and feel.
It is important to note that the qualities of the top and bottom housing materials play a significant role in shaping the overall sound and feel of a switch. The split between the top and bottom housing materials determines the impact each has on the switch's sound profile and typing experience. While the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, the top housing has a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. Understanding how each housing material contributes to the overall performance of a switch can help individuals choose the one that best suits their preferences in terms of sound and typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, we see that the Meteor Orange has a lighter actuation force of None grams, compared to the Dustproof Blue's 50 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Meteor Orange requires 57 grams, which is lighter than the Dustproof Blue's 65 grams. This means that while the Dustproof Blue is heavier in terms of actuation force, the Meteor Orange is heavier when it comes to bottoming out. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Meteor Orange might be the better choice for longer typing sessions, while the Dustproof Blue would provide a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a heavier push. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces, but users can achieve similar results based on their preference for force requirements during typing.
Travel distance
Both the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing other characteristics such as actuation force, tactile feedback, and noise level, the two switches may differ significantly. However, when it comes to the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom, users can expect similar results from both switches. This means that whether you choose the Meteor Orange or the Dustproof Blue, you can enjoy a consistent typing experience in terms of travel distance. But if you're looking for a tactile vs clicky switch, you may want to consider the other differences between these 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 Dustproof 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 praised for its gentle and seductive tactility, offering a smooth typing experience. The sound produced by these switches is described as neutral with a moderate actuation force requirement, making them suitable for various purposes. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch does not have specific information available regarding its sound profile.
When it comes to feel, the Meteor Orange switch is noted for its mild and polished characteristics, providing a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the feel of the Dustproof Blue switch is unspecified.
Overall, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a neutral sound profile and a gentle typing experience, the SP-Star Meteor Orange switch would be a suitable choice. However, if you are specifically interested in clicky switches or if sound and feel are not major factors for you, the Outemu Dustproof Blue switch could still provide a satisfactory typing experience. It's 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.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, consider the bottom out force you prefer - lighter for the Meteor Orange and heavier for the Dustproof Blue. If you are looking for a gentle and seductive tactility with a neutral sound profile, the Meteor Orange would be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a satisfying clicky sound and a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Dustproof Blue would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your preference for bottom out force and sound profile will be the determining factors in selecting the switch that best fits your typing style and preferences.
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