SP-Star Meteor Orange vs. SP-Star Polaris Gray
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two standout options are the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the SP-Star Polaris Gray. The Meteor Orange switches are widely renowned for their exquisitely gentle and soft tactility, coupled with a neutral sound profile. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switches are favored by those who prefer a bouncy typing experience and appreciate a clean and clacky sound profile. While these general descriptions provide a glimpse into the characteristics of each switch, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision that suits your preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold plated
Housing materials
The SP-Star Meteor Orange and SP-Star Polaris Gray differ in their housing materials, resulting in contrasting sound profiles and aesthetic features. The Meteor Orange utilizes a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound when typing. This is due to nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Conversely, the Polaris Gray features a polycarbonate top housing, producing a sharper and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that allows for a clearer and resonant sound. Additionally, the polycarbonate top housing is ideal for RGB lighting due to its translucency, whereas the opaque nylon housing of the Meteor Orange does not possess this feature.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Meteor Orange and Polaris Gray continue to showcase their material differences. The nylon bottom housing of the Meteor Orange contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to its nylon top housing counterpart. This is again attributed to nylon's softer plastic composition, absorbing more sound and creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Polaris Gray delivers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. As a stiffer plastic, polycarbonate enhances clarity and resonance. Aesthetically, the clear polycarbonate bottom housing is more likely to be featured in switches with RGB lighting, aligning with its translucency and vibrant visual appeal.
When utilizing switches with different top and bottom housings, it is important to consider the distribution of qualities imparted by each material. Pressing down on the switch will predominantly highlight the characteristics of the bottom housing, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, when releasing a key, the sound will be influenced by the top housing material. Therefore, users will experience a contrast in sound and feel depending on which housing material dominates their interaction with the switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, the differences are evident. Unfortunately, the actuation force for both switches is unavailable, so we cannot directly compare them in terms of the force required to trigger a keystroke. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Meteor Orange requires 57 grams, which is considered medium-light, while the Polaris Gray requires 67 grams, which is classified as medium-heavy.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Meteor Orange would be the more suitable option. This switch allows for longer periods of typing, making it ideal for those who use their keyboards extensively for work or during marathon gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may gravitate towards the Polaris Gray. With its heavier bottom out force, this switch provides a stronger push feel, offering a more satisfying typing sensation for those who prefer a bit more resistance.
In terms of weight consideration, it is worth noting that both switches differ in their actuation force and bottom out force. However, without the exact values for actuation force, it is challenging to provide a direct comparison. Nevertheless, it is safe to assume that the differences in bottom out force between the Meteor Orange and Polaris Gray would result in noticeably distinct typing experiences.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will feel a consistent 4 mm distance of travel. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of the feel and experience when using these switches.
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 SP-Star Polaris Gray has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Gray for $5.00.
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 switch offers a neutral sound profile. This means that it produces a moderate sound that is suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you use the switch at home or work. In addition, the Meteor Orange switch is described as thocky, which means that it produces a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed and released. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray switch also offers a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and settings. It is also described as thocky, producing a deep "thud" or a soft "knock" when the key is pressed and released. Both switches offer a similar sound profile, providing a satisfying sound experience.
In terms of feel, both the Meteor Orange and Polaris Gray switches offer a mild typing experience. This means that they provide a gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The sound and feel of these switches are approachable to most users, as their qualities fall within a safe middle-ground zone. Additionally, both switches are described as polished, indicating that they have a smooth and refined finish. This results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. You can expect both the Meteor Orange and Polaris Gray switches to provide a comfortable and smooth typing experience.
In conclusion, the SP-Star Meteor Orange and Polaris Gray switches share similarities in their sound and feel characteristics. Both switches offer a neutral sound profile, providing a moderate and satisfying sound experience when pressed and released. They also offer a mild typing experience with a polished finish, resulting in a comfortable and smooth key travel. Whether you choose the SP-Star Meteor Orange or Polaris Gray switch, you can expect a gentle tactile or linear switch that delivers a pleasant typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a switch with a medium-light bottom out force, exquisite gentleness, and a soft and seductive tactility, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch is the one for you. These switches offer a mild and approachable typing experience, and their sound profile is described as both neutral and thocky, providing a satisfying deep "thud" or soft "knock" when pressed and released.
On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a slightly heavier bottom out force and a bouncy typing experience, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch is a great choice. These switches have a medium-heavy bottom out force, and their sound profile is described as low-pitched, neutral, and thocky, producing a bass-heavy and mellow tone when pressed.
Both switches offer a mild typing experience and a polished finish, resulting in smooth key travel and reduced friction. Ultimately, your choice will come down to personal preference in terms of bottom out force, typing experience, and sound profile. Consider your desired typing feel and sound, and choose the switch that aligns with your preferences and needs. In the end, both the SP-Star Meteor Orange and Polaris Gray switches are excellent options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
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