SP-Star Meteor Orange vs. Outemu Silent Yellow Jade
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade mechanical keyboard switches, both are tactile switches known for their unique characteristics. The meteor orange switches are lauded for their gentle tactility and neutral sound profile, offering a smooth typing experience. On the other hand, the silent yellow jade switches provide a quiet typing experience with a satisfying thocky sound, thanks to their factory-lubed feature and translucent jade yellow housing. While the meteor orange is categorized as neutral, mild, thocky, polished, the silent yellow jade doesn't have specific categories listed. Choosing between these two switches would depend on whether you prioritize a softer tactility or a quieter 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
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade, it is clear that both switches utilize nylon for both the top and bottom housings. This means that typing on switches that use nylon will result in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's ability to absorb more sound than harder plastics. The duller and rounder sound created by nylon is a common trait shared by both the Meteor Orange and Silent Yellow Jade switches, providing a similar typing experience in terms of acoustics.
Despite both switches using nylon for their housing materials, there may be subtle differences in the overall sound profile due to variations in the design and construction of the switches. The impact of the bottom housing on the bottom-out sound and feel can differ slightly between the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade, creating a unique typing experience for each switch. However, the use of nylon in both switches ensures a level of consistency in terms of the deep and full sound produced when typing, maintaining a similar sound profile overall.
Overall, the choice of nylon for both the top and bottom housings in the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade switches provides a reliable and consistent typing experience. The softer nature of nylon as a plastic allows for the absorption of sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile that is appreciated by many users. While there may be slight variations in the impact of the housing materials on the overall typing experience, the shared use of nylon ensures that both switches deliver a quality sound and feel when in use.
Weight
The SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch differ in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Meteor Orange has none grams of actuation force, making it easier to type for longer periods of time, while the Silent Yellow Jade requires 50 grams to trigger a keystroke. When it comes to bottoming out, the Meteor Orange has a bottom out force of 57 grams, which is medium-light, whereas the Silent Yellow Jade has a bottom out force of 65 grams, making it medium-heavy. Those who prefer a lighter touch may opt for the Meteor Orange, while users seeking a heavier, more substantial typing experience may prefer the Silent Yellow Jade. Both switches offer unique typing experiences based on their actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it slightly longer than the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch, which has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Meteor Orange offers a more traditional travel distance, while the Silent Yellow Jade falls on the shorter end of the spectrum. Gamers may prefer the Silent Yellow Jade for its quicker response times due to the shorter travel distance, while those looking for a more substantial key press may lean towards the Meteor Orange. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of travel distance and key feel.
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 Yellow Jade 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 a variety of users and settings. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch provides a unique "thocky" sound that is deep and satisfying when pressed. Ultimately, both switches offer different auditory experiences, catering to individuals with varying preferences on sound feedback while typing.
In terms of feel, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch provides a gentle and mild typing experience, making it approachable for most users. Additionally, the switch is polished, resulting in a smooth and refined keystroke. However, information on the specific feel of the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch is currently unavailable. Depending on the user's preference for a softer or more pronounced tactile bump, they may find one switch to be more appealing over the other.
Overall, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Meteor Orange switch provides a neutral sound profile and a gentle typing experience, the Silent Yellow Jade switch delivers a unique "thocky" sound that may appeal to users seeking a satisfying auditory feedback. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to individual preferences in sound and feel while typing.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade tactile switch, consider your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a gentle tactility with a neutral sound profile, the Meteor Orange may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier bottom out force and a quiet, tactile typing experience with a satisfying "thocky" sound, the Outemu Silent Yellow Jade might be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are seeking. Choose the switch that aligns best with your preferences for a satisfying typing experience.
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