SP-Star Meteor Orange vs. Outemu Silent Grey
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Outemu Silent Grey switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Outemu Silent Grey mechanical keyboard switches, both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Meteor Orange switches are revered for their gentle tactile feedback and neutral sound profile, making them perfect for those who appreciate a softer typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Grey switches are known for their quiet operation and pronounced tactile bump, ideal for those who value a satisfying yet silent typing experience. 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
1.60 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 Silent Grey, the key difference lies in the material used for the top housing. The Meteor Orange features a nylon top housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Silent Grey's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile because of its stiffer plastic composition. This variation results in a different typing experience for users, with the Meteor Orange providing a more rounded sound and the Silent Grey offering a more resonant and clear sound.
However, when it comes to the bottom housing, both the Meteor Orange and the Silent Grey utilize nylon material. This means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile, as nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition. Despite the different top housing materials, the use of nylon for the bottom housing ensures that both switches deliver a consistent typing experience with a duller and rounder sound profile. This highlights how the choice of housing material can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard switch.
It is important to note that the impact of the housing material is not limited to sound alone. The bottom housing plays a crucial role in the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing influences the sound when a key is released. Therefore, the differences in housing materials between the Meteor Orange and the Silent Grey not only affect the sound profile but also the overall tactile experience when using these switches. By understanding the unique qualities of each housing material, users can choose a switch that best suits their preferences in terms of sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, it is evident that the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the typing experience. The Meteor Orange has an actuation force of None grams, making it lighter in terms of the force needed to trigger a keystroke, while its bottom out force of 57 grams falls in the medium-light category. On the other hand, the Silent Grey has an actuation force of 50 grams, providing a slightly heavier push feel compared to the Meteor Orange, and a bottom out force of 65 grams, which is classified as medium-heavy. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may opt for the Meteor Orange, as it requires less force to actuate, allowing for extended typing sessions without fatigue. In contrast, the Silent Grey may be favored by those seeking a more substantial typing feel due to its heavier actuation and bottom out forces. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to individual preference for typing experience and desired force feedback.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, the distance traveled from the top to the bottom will be identical. Both switches offer a consistent tactile feedback experience with a moderate travel distance, making them suitable choices for those seeking a balance between keypress feel and actuation. Ultimately, whether you choose the Meteor Orange or the Silent Grey, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance and typing experience.
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 Silent Grey 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
In terms of sound, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch is best described as having a neutral sound profile, suitable for a variety of typing environments. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch is known for its quiet operation, making it ideal for those who prefer a more discreet typing experience. While the Meteor Orange offers a thocky sound, providing a deep and satisfying noise when pressed, the Silent Grey's sound profile is not specifically mentioned, so one can infer it leans towards a quieter operation. Both switches offer a unique auditory experience, with the Meteor Orange catering to those who enjoy a moderate sound and the Silent Grey appealing to individuals seeking a silent typing experience.
In terms of feel, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch provides a mild and gentle typing experience, suitable for individuals who prefer a less pronounced tactile feedback. The switch is also described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that contributes to a sleek typing experience with reduced friction. The Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch's feel is not explicitly mentioned, but it can be assumed that it offers a similar smoothness due to its silent operation. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, with the Meteor Orange catering to those who prefer a softer tactile feedback and the Silent Grey appealing to users looking for a quieter typing experience.
Taking all the available information into account, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Meteor Orange provides a thocky sound profile and a gentle typing experience with a polished finish, the Silent Grey offers a quiet operation and likely a smooth typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel, with both switches offering unique benefits for different typing environments.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when choosing between the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Grey tactile switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a gentle, yet satisfying tactility with a neutral sound profile, the Meteor Orange switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force and a highly tactile, silent typing experience, the Silent Grey switch would be the better option. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and actuation force. Happy typing!
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