SP-Star Meteor Orange vs. KTT Rose
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the KTT Rose switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two options that stand out are the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the KTT Rose. The Meteor Orange switch is renowned for its exquisitely gentle nature, providing a soft and seductive tactility while maintaining a neutral sound profile. Categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', and 'Polished', this switch offers a delightful typing experience. On the other hand, the Rose switch catches the eye with its stunning aesthetics, but there is much more to it. The use of progressive springs in the Rose switch results in a uniquely substantial yet not heavy typing experience, accompanied by the sound of bassy raindrops. Categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished', it offers a different tactile experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can decide which switch is best suited for your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Progressive spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the KTT Rose differ significantly. The Meteor Orange's nylon top housing and bottom housing both contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Rose's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that creates a more clear and resonant sound profile. The difference in housing materials greatly affects the auditory experience of typing on these switches.
Aesthetically, the housing materials of the switch also play a role. The SP-Star Meteor Orange's nylon top housing is not translucent, which means it does not allow for the transmission of RGB lighting. However, the KTT Rose's polycarbonate top housing is clear, allowing for the RGB lighting to shine through. This makes the Rose more visually appealing for users who prefer illuminated keyboards. The choice between a non-translucent nylon top housing or a clear polycarbonate top housing depends on the user's preference for RGB lighting.
Despite the differences in housing materials, both switches utilize nylon in their bottom housing. This material contributes to the deep and full sound profile common in switches with nylon housings. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound when compared to harder plastics. Therefore, users can expect a similar sound experience when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel of the Meteor Orange and the Rose, as both utilize nylon in this part of their housing.
In conclusion, the housing materials of the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the KTT Rose greatly impact their sound profiles and aesthetics. The Meteor Orange's nylon top housing creates a duller and rounder sound, while the Rose's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. The Rose's clear, polycarbonate top housing allows for RGB lighting, making it visually appealing for users who enjoy illuminated keyboards. However, both switches share a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a similar deep and full sound experience when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, it is important to note the differences in their weight. The Meteor Orange has an actuation force of unavailable grams, while the Rose also has an actuation force of unavailable grams. Therefore, in terms of actuation force, both switches provide similar results. However, when looking at the bottom out force, the Meteor Orange requires 57 grams of force, which falls under the category of medium-light. In contrast, the Rose requires 63.5 grams of force, making it a medium-heavy switch.
Considering weight becomes a crucial factor for users who favor different aspects of typing experience. Those who prefer a lighter switch may opt for the Meteor Orange, as it allows for longer periods of comfortable typing, ideal for scenarios like bringing a keyboard to work or engaging in extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who desire a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Rose, given its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, personal preference will dictate the choice between these two switches, with lighter weight facilitating endurance and heavier weight providing a more robust typing feel.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the KTT Rose 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 using either switch, you will experience the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Therefore, you can expect similar results when using both switches in terms of the tactile feedback and overall feel of key presses. While both switches offer the same travel distance, it is important to note that the Meteor Orange is a tactile switch while the Rose is a linear switch. This means that the Meteor Orange will provide a tactile bump when pressed, providing a more tactile and responsive typing experience, while the Rose will provide a smoother and more consistent linear force throughout the key press.
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 KTT Rose comes in at $3.01 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 switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that it produces a moderate sound when pressed and released, making it suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, using it at home or at work. On the other hand, the KTT Rose switch is described as having a low-pitched sound. This means that it has a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Both switches offer different sound characteristics, with the Meteor Orange providing a neutral sound and the Rose offering a deeper, bassy tone.
When it comes to feel, both the SP-Star Meteor Orange and KTT Rose switches provide a mild typing experience. This means that they offer a more gentle and approachable feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. With these switches, the sound and feel will be comfortable for most users, as their qualities all stand in a safe middle-ground zone. Additionally, both switches are described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish. This results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The use of polished materials and/or factory lubing contributes to this smoothness.
In conclusion, the SP-Star Meteor Orange and KTT Rose switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Meteor Orange switch provides a soft and seductive tactility with a neutral sound profile, suitable for most intents and purposes. On the other hand, the Rose switch offers a uniquely substantial typing experience with a low-pitched, bassy raindrop sound. However, both switches share similar characteristics of a mild typing experience and a polished, smooth finish. Therefore, if you are looking for a gentle typing experience with smooth key travel, either switch can provide similar results in terms of feel. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your preference for sound and the overall aesthetic of your keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a softer and more seductive tactility, along with a neutral sound profile, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch is the ideal choice for you. With a bottom-out force of 57 grams, these medium-light switches offer an exquisitely gentle typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a more substantial yet not heavy typing experience, with a low-pitched and bass-heavy sound, the KTT Rose linear switch is the way to go. With a bottom-out force of 63.5 grams, these medium-heavy switches provide a uniquely satisfying typing experience, akin to bassy raindrops. Both switches also have a mild and polished feel, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the SP-Star Meteor Orange and KTT Rose ultimately depends on your preference for tactility, sound profile, and typing feel. Consider these factors when making your choice and enjoy your mechanical keyboard experience!
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