SP-Star Meteor Orange vs. Outemu Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Outemu Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch to the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, the main difference lies in their tactile feedback. The Meteor Orange is admired for its gentle and seductive tactility, making typing a delight with its soft and quiet keystrokes. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean lacks any distinct features or characteristics, providing a smooth and consistent typing experience. While the Meteor Orange offers a neutral sound profile and a thocky feel, the Silent Ocean's silent operation is its standout feature. 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
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
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
The SP-Star Meteor Orange and Outemu Silent Ocean switches both utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings, resulting in distinct sound profiles and typing experiences. The Meteor Orange features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. In comparison, the Silent Ocean's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound, thanks to its stiffer plastic that enhances clarity and resonance. While both housing materials contribute to unique typing sounds, the nylon bottom housing in both switches maintains a similar deep and full sound profile, as nylon's softness absorbs sound effectively in both variations.
In terms of aesthetics, the choice between nylon and polycarbonate top housings also plays a significant role. The translucent nature of polycarbonate in the Silent Ocean switch allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing visual appeal for users seeking a more vibrant and customizable typing experience. On the other hand, the opaque nylon top housing of the Meteor Orange provides a more classic and understated look, focusing more on the typing feel and sound rather than visual effects. Both materials offer durability and functionality, but the decision between nylon and polycarbonate ultimately depends on personal preference regarding sound profile, aesthetics, and lighting options.
While the bottom housing material may have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of a switch, the top housing material influences the sound when a key is released. The split between nylon and polycarbonate top and bottom housings in the Meteor Orange and Silent Ocean switches allows for a balance of sound qualities throughout the typing experience. Regardless of the specific housing material used in each switch, users can expect a reliable and responsive typing experience with distinctive sound profiles that cater to individual preferences. Whether nylon or polycarbonate, both materials offer their unique benefits and contribute to the overall performance of these mechanical switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, we can see notable differences. The Meteor Orange has no specified actuation force, making it unknown, but it has a bottom out force of 57 grams, which is considered medium-light. In contrast, the Silent Ocean has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 65 grams, placing it in the medium-heavy category. This means that the Silent Ocean requires a lighter initial force to register a keystroke but a heavier force to bottom out compared to the Meteor Orange. This variation in weight can cater to different preferences, with the Meteor Orange being lighter potentially suitable for extended typing sessions or gaming, while the Silent Ocean's heavier bottom out force may provide a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a firmer touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual typing preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch both have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that both switches will provide a consistent and familiar keypress experience in terms of the distance traveled when pressed. Users can expect a similar feel and level of actuation force with either switch, ensuring a reliable typing or gaming experience. Overall, the travel distance of these switches contributes to their overall performance and user satisfaction, regardless of the specific type of switch being used.
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 Ocean 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 offers a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for a wide range of users and purposes. Additionally, the Meteor Orange switch is described as having a thocky sound, which produces a deep and satisfying noise when pressed. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch's sound profile is unknown, so it is difficult to assess how it compares in terms of noise level and quality. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as keyboard type and keycaps.
When it comes to feel, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch is known for providing a mild and gentle typing experience, making it approachable for most users. The switch is also described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Conversely, the feel of the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch is unknown, so it is challenging to determine how it compares in terms of tactility and typing experience.
Overall, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch seems to offer a soft and seductive tactility, along with a neutral sound profile and a smooth typing experience. On the other hand, information regarding the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch is limited, making it difficult to provide a direct comparison. However, based on the available information, it is likely that the Silent Ocean switch may offer a quieter typing experience compared to the Meteor Orange, but may not provide the same level of tactility and refinement. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, you should consider the bottom out force, sound profile, and feel of each switch. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and enjoy a soft and seductive tactility with a gentle typing experience, then the Meteor Orange switch is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a neutral sound profile with a polished typing experience, then the Silent Ocean switch would be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preferences and typing style.
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