SP-Star Meteor Orange vs. Outemu Red
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Outemu Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch to the Outemu Red linear switch, it's important to consider their unique characteristics. The Meteor Orange switches are praised for their gentle tactility and neutral sound profile, making them a popular choice for those who prefer a softer typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Red switches are known for their smooth and consistent keystrokes, perfect for fast-paced typing or gaming. While the Meteor Orange offers a more tactile typing experience, the Outemu Red provides a linear feel with no tactile bump. 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
46g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.10 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 Red, we can see a clear distinction in the materials used. The Meteor Orange features a nylon top housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition. On the other hand, the Red utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer plastic composition. This contrast in sound profiles can greatly impact the typing experience for users who prefer a certain type of sound when using their keyboard.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Meteor Orange and Red switches utilize nylon for this component. This means that both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon is known for its sound-absorbing properties. Despite having the same material for the bottom housing, the overall sound and feel of the switches can still be influenced by other factors such as keycap material and key switch design. Therefore, while the bottom housing material is the same, there may still be subtle differences in the typing experience between the two switches.
Overall, the choice between the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Outemu Red housing materials ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile and typing experience. If a user prefers a deeper and fuller sound, the Meteor Orange with its nylon housing may be the preferred choice. On the other hand, for those who prefer a sharper and crisper sound, the Red with its polycarbonate housing would be the better option. Despite the differences in housing materials, both switches are likely to provide a satisfactory typing experience, especially when paired with other high-quality components in a mechanical keyboard setup.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Outemu Red linear switch, it is evident that the Meteor Orange requires no actuation force and has a bottom out force of 57 grams, making it medium-light. On the other hand, the Outemu Red has an actuation force of 46 grams and a bottom out force of 62 grams, categorizing it as a medium switch. The Meteor Orange is lighter in terms of actuation force compared to the Outemu Red, which may be preferred by individuals who prefer a lighter feel for extended typing or gaming sessions. In contrast, the Outemu Red provides a slightly heavier actuation force but still falls within the medium range, offering a more solid and substantial typing experience for those who desire it. Both switches offer unique characteristics in terms of force required, with the Meteor Orange being lighter and the Outemu Red being slightly heavier, catering to different preferences and typing styles. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
Both the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Outemu Red linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same travel distance from the top to the bottom. In terms of travel distance, both switches offer a consistent typing experience, making them suitable for users who prefer a standard key travel distance. So, whether you choose the Meteor Orange or the Red switch, you can expect to get similar results in terms of 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 Red 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 moderate sound profile that is suitable for a wide range of users and purposes. On the other hand, the Outemu Red linear switch has no specific sound descriptors provided. The Meteor Orange switch also has a thocky sound quality, which produces a deep and satisfying sound when pressed, adding an extra layer of tactile feedback for the user. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
As for the feel, the SP-Star Meteor Orange switch is known for its gentle tactility, offering a mild typing experience that is approachable for most users. Additionally, the switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, no specific feel descriptors are provided for the Outemu Red linear switch. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, but the Meteor Orange switch may provide a softer and more refined feel due to being polished.
In conclusion, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Outemu Red linear switch offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Meteor Orange switch provides a neutral and thocky sound profile, along with a gentle and polished typing experience. While the specific qualities of the Outemu Red switch are not detailed, both switches are likely to offer a satisfactory typing experience with differences in sound and feel. Depending on individual preferences and priorities, users can choose between the two switches to achieve their desired typing experience.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the decision between the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Outemu Red linear switch comes down to your personal preference in typing experience. If you are looking for a gentle and tactile typing experience with a soft sound profile, the Meteor Orange switch with its medium-light bottom out force and thocky sound may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and linear typing experience with a slightly heavier bottom out force, the Red switch may be more suitable. Consider your typing style, preference for sound, and bottom out force preference when making your decision. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that best suits your typing needs.
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