SP-Star Meteor Orange vs. Kailh Plum
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Kailh Plum switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Kailh Plum are two options that stand out. The Meteor Orange switches are renowned for their exquisitely gentle nature, providing a soft and seductive tactility. With a neutral sound profile and being categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', and 'Polished', these switches offer a unique typing experience. On the other hand, the Plum switches offer a different tactile experience. Despite feeling quite hefty, they don't feature a huge tactile bump, making them incredibly unique. Their sound profile is also neutral and enjoyable, and they are categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Stepped'. Both switches have their own distinct qualities that may appeal to different users. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
70g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.70 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
The housing materials used in the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Kailh Plum switches present significant differences in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. The Meteor Orange features a nylon top housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer plastic and its ability to absorb more sound. On the other hand, the Plum switch utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, offering a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is achieved thanks to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the polycarbonate top housing is especially advantageous for users planning to utilize RGB lighting, as it offers transparency.
In terms of bottom housing, both the Meteor Orange and the Plum switches employ nylon. As a classic switch housing material, nylon brings a similar impact on the sound profile. Its softer plastic and improved sound absorption contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a duller and rounder sound experience for users. This shared characteristic highlights how the nylon construction in the bottom housing ensures a consistent sound profile regardless of the switch type.
However, it is important to note that when the top and bottom housings differ in a switch, their respective qualities impact different aspects of the keypress. The bottom housing, being involved in the bottom-out sound and feel, will have a more noticeable impact on the tactile feedback when pressing down on the key. Meanwhile, the top housing will predominantly influence the sound produced when releasing a key. This divergence in sound profile and tactile feedback demonstrates how the choice of housing materials can cater to specific user preferences and needs.
Overall, while there are significant differences between the housing materials of the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Kailh Plum switches, they both ensure a satisfactory typing experience, with their respective nylon constructions resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. However, users can select either switch based on their desired sound characteristics and aesthetic preferences.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, there are distinct differences in their actuation and bottom out forces. The actuation force for both switches is unavailable, so we are unable to make a direct comparison. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Meteor Orange requires 57 grams, which falls within the medium-light range. In contrast, the Plum switch has a bottom out force of 70 grams, which is classified as medium-heavy.
Considering weight, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Meteor Orange switch as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. This makes it suitable for work environments or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial and tactile feel when typing may find the heavier bottom out force of the Plum switch more satisfying. This can provide a stronger push and a sense of stability during typing.
Although the actuation forces of both switches are unknown, we can assume that they provide similar results based on their tactile nature. Both switches offer a tactile response, indicating that a distinct feedback point is reached during keystrokes. While the specific actuation forces may differ, the overall tactile experience can be expected to be similar.
In conclusion, the SP-Star Meteor Orange switch has a lighter bottom out force compared to the Kailh Plum switch, making it suitable for prolonged typing sessions. Conversely, the Plum switch offers a heavier bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing experience. While the actuation forces remain unknown, both switches offer a tactile feel, allowing for a satisfying typing experience for users.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch, it is clear that the Meteor Orange has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Plum has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Meteor Orange falls into the category of a more traditional travel distance, providing a deeper feel when pressed, while the Plum offers a slightly shallower experience. However, it is worth noting that recent trends have seen a rise in shorter travel distances, particularly favored by gamers seeking faster response times. Therefore, if you prioritize responsiveness, the Plum switch may be the preferable option. On the other hand, those who prefer a more substantial and deliberate keystroke experience may find the longer travel distance of the Meteor Orange to be more to their liking. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences and needs for either depth or quickness in keystrokes.
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 Kailh Plum comes in at $6.25 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, both the SP-Star Meteor Orange switch and the Kailh Plum switch have a neutral profile. This means that they have a moderate actuation force requirement and produce a moderate sound when pressed. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used. It's also worth mentioning that the Meteor Orange switch has been described as having a "thocky" sound, which produces a deep and satisfying sound, while the Plum switch's sound profile is simply described as neutral and enjoyable.
In terms of feel, both switches offer a mild typing experience. They provide a gentle tactile feedback without featuring a huge tactile bump. The Meteor Orange switch has been praised for its soft and seductive tactility, while the Plum switch has a unique feel that is described as hefty but not overly tactile. Both switches fall in the safe middle-ground zone when it comes to the typing experience, making them approachable to most users. Additionally, the Meteor Orange switch is noted for its polished finish, which results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Overall, both the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch offer moderate sound profiles and gentle typing experiences. While the Meteor Orange switch provides a thocky sound and a polished finish for enhanced smoothness, the Plum switch has a unique feel that is both hefty and mildly tactile, with a neutral sound profile. Depending on personal preferences and usage scenarios, either switch can deliver satisfying results.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-light bottom out force, the SP-Star Meteor Orange switch would be a great choice. These switches are known for their gentle tactility and neutral sound profile, making them suitable for both beginners and advanced users in any setting. The Meteor Orange switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, providing a smooth key travel with reduced friction. Additionally, if you prefer a switch with a thocky sound, the Meteor Orange switch delivers a deep and satisfying sound when pressed.
On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Kailh Plum tactile switch is a unique option. These switches feel quite hefty but do not have a significant tactile bump, making them stand out from other tactile switches. The Plum switch also offers a neutral sound profile, which is suitable for various purposes. In terms of feel, the Plum tactile switch provides a mild and stepped typing experience, allowing you to feel some pre-travel and/or post-travel during the keystroke.
Ultimately, the choice between the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Kailh Plum tactile switch depends on your preference for bottom out force, tactility, sound profile, and typing experience. Consider what qualities are most important to you and choose the switch that aligns with your desired typing experience.
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