SP-Star Meteor Orange vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, there are a plethora of options available, each with its own unique characteristics. Two popular options worth considering are the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Outemu Red Panda switches, both of which fall under the tactile switch category. The Meteor Orange switches are best known for their exquisitely gentle nature, offering a soft and seductive tactility that is accompanied by a neutral sound profile. On the other hand, the Red Panda switches provide a light-medium amount of tactility, resulting in a satisfying typing experience. These switches also produce a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound and a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound. While these general pointers can help steer you in the right direction, it's essential to delve deeper into the specifics to determine which switch is best suited to your needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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 housing materials of the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Outemu Red Panda switches differ significantly. The Meteor Orange switch features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic properties. The nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Red Panda switch uses a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper and crisper sound profile. The relatively stiffer plastic of polycarbonate delivers a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the transparent nature of polycarbonate makes it suitable for RGB lighting, enhancing the switch's aesthetic appeal.
The bottom housings of both switches, however, share a common material - nylon. As a classic switch housing material, nylon offers similar characteristics for both the Meteor Orange and Red Panda switches. It gives a deeper and fuller sound profile and absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. The relatively softer nature of nylon contributes to the overall typing experience by providing enhanced tactile feedback and a more cushioned bottom-out feel.
When utilizing switches with different top and bottom housings, the qualities offered by each housing material are divided between the top and the bottom of the switch. Consequently, when pressing down on a switch, the experience is influenced by the qualities of the bottom housing, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the sound produced when releasing a key is more influenced by the properties of the top housing. By understanding these distinctions, users can choose switches that cater to their specific preferences and typing needs.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The actuation force of the Meteor Orange is unavailable, while the Red Panda has an actuation force of 50 grams. This means that the Red Panda requires a slightly lighter touch to trigger a keystroke compared to the Meteor Orange, although the exact force needed for the Meteor Orange is unknown. However, both switches have similar bottom out forces, with the Meteor Orange having a bottom out force of 57 grams (medium-light) and the Red Panda having a bottom out force of 60 grams (medium). This means that the typing experience on both switches will have a similar level of resistance when fully pressed.
Considering weight, some individuals may prefer a lighter switch, like the Red Panda, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue. This would be ideal for those using their keyboards for extended periods of time at work or during long gaming sessions. On the other hand, others may prefer a more substantial typing experience and would opt for switches with heavier forces, like the Meteor Orange which is likely to have a higher actuation force. These individuals appreciate the stronger push feel that heavier force provides. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference based on typing style and desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch is 4 mm, while the travel distance of the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch is 3.3 mm. The Meteor Orange has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Red Panda. A travel distance of 4 mm is considered to be more traditional, while 3.3 mm is on the shallower end of the spectrum. However, shorter travel distances have become popular recently, particularly among gamers who prefer faster response times. If you prioritize responsiveness, the shorter travel distance option might be more suitable for you. On the other hand, some individuals might find short travel distances to feel too abrupt. If you prefer a more substantial key press experience, the switch with the longer travel distance would be a better choice. Overall, both switches offer different travel distances, allowing users to choose based on their preference for either a shorter or longer travel distance.
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 Red Panda comes in at $3.40 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 switch is known for its neutral profile, meaning it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile. This makes it suitable for a variety of purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced, or if you plan to use the switch at home or work. Additionally, the Meteor Orange switch has a thocky sound, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed and released. However, keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps you choose.
On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda switch offers a different sound experience. When typing on these switches, you can expect a light-medium amount of tactility accompanied by a bassier, raindrop-like sound when bottoming out and a clackier, higher-pitched sound when the switch tops out. Like the Meteor Orange, the Red Panda switch is also described as thocky, providing that deep and satisfying sound when pressed and released.
In terms of feel, both switches offer a mild typing experience. This means that they provide a more gentle and approachable feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The qualities of both switches stand in a safe middle-ground zone, making them suitable for most users. Additionally, the Meteor Orange switch is described as having a polished feel, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience. This could be due to the materials used or factory lubing, offering reduced friction and smooth key travel. Unfortunately, there is no specific information available about the feel of the Red Panda switch.
Based on the available information, it can be concluded that both the SP-Star Meteor Orange and Outemu Red Panda switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Meteor Orange switch is known for its neutral sound profile and gentle tactility, the Red Panda switch provides a bassier and clackier sound experience alongside its mild tactility. Both switches also provide a comfortable typing experience with their respective characteristics. If you are looking for a switch with a similar sound and feel to the Meteor Orange, the Red Panda could potentially provide similar results. However, it is important to consider other factors such as your choice of keyboard and keycaps to fully customize your typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium-light bottom out force, the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches would be a great choice. These switches are known for their exquisitively gentle tactility and neutral sound profile. They offer a mild typing experience that is approachable to most users, and their polished finish ensures smooth key travel with reduced friction. The sound produced by Meteor Orange switches is described as neutral or thocky, making them suitable for any purpose, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use them at home or work.
On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a slightly higher bottom out force, the Outemu Red Panda switches would be a good option. These switches provide a light-medium amount of tactility, along with a bassier, raindrop-like bottom-out sound and a clackier, higher-pitched top-out sound. Like the Meteor Orange, the Red Panda switches offer a mild typing experience that is suitable for most users. They are also described as thocky, producing a deep and satisfying sound when pressed and released.
Ultimately, the choice between SP-Star Meteor Orange and Outemu Red Panda switches will depend on your personal preferences. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a softer, more neutral sound profile, the Meteor Orange switches would be a great fit. However, if you prefer a slightly higher bottom out force and a sound profile that leans towards a bassier and clackier tone, the Red Panda switches would be a good option. Consider factors such as your typing style, desired sound, and overall typing experience when making your decision.
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