SP-Star Meteor Orange vs. Outemu Gold
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Outemu Gold switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Outemu Gold offer distinct experiences for users. The Meteor Orange is a tactile switch, known for its gentle tactility and neutral sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold is a clicky switch, offering a satisfying click with each keystroke. If you prefer a softer and more subtle typing experience, the Meteor Orange may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy the audible feedback and precise actuation of a clicky switch, the Outemu Gold could be the ideal 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
45g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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 Gold, it is evident that they have different characteristics and qualities. The Meteor Orange utilizes a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Gold features a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While the Meteor Orange offers a duller and rounder sound, the Gold provides a more clear and resonant sound experience. Additionally, the polycarbonate material in the Gold allows for RGB lighting due to its translucency, offering a visually appealing feature that the Meteor Orange does not have.
When it comes to the bottom housing material, both the Meteor Orange and the Gold use nylon. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile by absorbing more sound with its softer plastic composition. As a result, the typing experience on both switches will have similar attributes in terms of sound quality. The use of nylon in the bottom housing ensures that the switches produce a consistent and smooth typing experience, allowing users to enjoy a satisfying and tactile response when pressing down on the keys.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in switches can significantly impact the sound and feel of typing. While the Meteor Orange and the Gold both offer nylon bottom housings for a deeper and fuller sound profile, the differences in their top housings set them apart. The Meteor Orange's nylon top housing produces a duller and rounder sound, while the Gold's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound. Whether one prefers a softer and more absorbing typing experience or a clearer and more resonant sound profile, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. Ultimately, the selection between the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Outemu Gold will depend on the individual's desired typing experience and sound preferences.
Weight
The SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch has a lighter actuation force of None grams compared to the Outemu Gold clicky switch, which has an actuation force of 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Meteor Orange requires 57 grams while the Gold switch needs 60 grams, making the Gold slightly heavier in this aspect. Overall, the Meteor Orange offers a lighter typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force, ideal for those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold provides a slightly heavier typing experience with a medium bottom out force, catering to individuals who prefer a more substantial key press feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on the user's preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch both have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that both switches will provide a similar tactile feedback and typing experience in terms of how far the key travels when pressed. Despite having the same travel distance, the tactile feel of the Meteor Orange is geared towards a smooth and consistent typing experience, while the Gold clicky switch offers a more tactile and audible feedback with its distinct click sound. Ultimately, both switches offer a different typing experience while covering the same 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 Gold 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 that is suitable for various purposes, whether for beginners or advanced users, at work or at home. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold clicky switch's sound profile is unknown, so it's difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch is known for its mild tactility, providing a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Additionally, the switch is described as polished, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. As for the Outemu Gold clicky switch, the feel characteristics are unknown, making it challenging to contrast with the Meteor Orange switch in this aspect.
Overall, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch stands out for its gentle tactility, neutral sound profile, and polished feel, making it a versatile option for users of varying skill levels and preferences. While the specific qualities of the Outemu Gold clicky switch remain unknown, it is important to test and compare switches firsthand to determine which one best suits your typing style and preferences. Always consider factors like sound, feel, and overall typing experience when choosing a mechanical keyboard switch for your setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, you should choose the Meteor Orange if you prefer a medium-light bottom out force, gentle tactility, and a neutral sound profile. These switches are great for a smooth and refined typing experience. On the other hand, you should opt for the Gold switch if you prefer a medium bottom out force and a clicky sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on your personal preference for typing feel and sound.