SP-Star Meteor Orange vs. Everglide Sakura Pink
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Everglide Sakura Pink switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
If you're in the market for a new mechanical keyboard switch, you'll likely come across two popular options: the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Everglide Sakura Pink. The Meteor Orange switches are best known for their exquisitely gentle tactility and neutral sound profile. With a classification of "Neutral", "Mild", "Thocky", and "Polished", these switches offer a soft and seductive typing experience. On the other hand, the Sakura Pink switches are favored for their super light 35g actuation force, making them ideal for delicate typists. They are often described as the lighter cousin of the Everglide Aqua Kings, providing a smooth and effortless typing experience with their gliding type feel. Additionally, the Sakura Pinks produce a delightfully poppy sound, adding a playful touch to your keyboarding sessions. While these general pointers give a glimpse into the characteristics of each switch, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
35g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials used in the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Everglide Sakura Pink switches differ significantly. The Meteor Orange utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housing, while the Sakura Pink incorporates polycarbonate for both. Nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, polycarbonate, being a stiffer plastic, results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This contrast in sound characteristics makes the switches distinctly unique. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate in the Sakura Pink allows for RGB lighting to be utilized, thanks to its translucency, offering an aesthetically pleasing experience.
When comparing the bottom housing of the Meteor Orange and Sakura Pink switches, the properties of the respective materials remain consistent. The nylon bottom housing of the Meteor Orange contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when keys are pressed, owing to nylon's sound-absorbing nature. Similarly, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Sakura Pink maintains its stiffer plastic composition, resulting in a sharper and more resonant sound when keys are bottomed out. Aesthetically, both switches do not feature a clear bottom housing, as this feature is typically associated with polycarbonate housings. Therefore, while they may offer nuanced differences in sound characteristics, the bottom housings of these switches ultimately provide similar results.
On the opposite end, the top housing of the Meteor Orange and Sakura Pink switches brings contrasting sound profiles when keys are released. The nylon top housing of the Meteor Orange emphasizes a deeper and fuller sound when keys are let go, complementing the qualities of the nylon bottom housing. Conversely, the polycarbonate top housing of the Sakura Pink contributes to a sharper and crisper sound when keys are released. This highlights one of the key differences between the two switches, as the top housing plays a significant role in the sound produced upon key release. Additionally, the use of polycarbonate in the Sakura Pink switch's top housing allows for the utilization of RGB lighting, enhancing the overall visual experience while typing.
In summary, the SP-Star Meteor Orange and Everglide Sakura Pink switches exhibit discernible differences in their housing materials. The nylon housing of the Meteor Orange produces a deeper and fuller sound throughout the keystroke, while the polycarbonate housing of the Sakura Pink emphasizes a sharper and crisper sound. While the bottom housings of both switches offer similar results due to their respective materials, the top housing creates distinct sound profiles upon key release. Additionally, the Sakura Pink's polycarbonate top housing enables the use of RGB lighting for enhanced aesthetics. Ultimately, these differences provide users with unique typing experiences tailored to their preferences in sound and visual appeal.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The actuation force of the Meteor Orange is currently unavailable, whereas the Sakura Pink requires a light actuation force of 35 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Meteor Orange has a medium-light force of 57 grams, while the Sakura Pink has a lighter force of 45 grams.
For those who prefer a lighter switch, the Sakura Pink would be a suitable choice. With its low actuation force and light bottom out force, it provides a more effortless typing experience. This makes it ideal for extended typing sessions or prolonged gaming sessions, as it reduces finger fatigue.
On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange offers a more substantial typing experience with its medium-light bottom out force. While the actuation force is unknown, it is likely to require a stronger push compared to the Sakura Pink. This heavier force may be preferred by individuals who enjoy a more tactile and responsive feedback from their keyboard.
Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preferences. Those seeking a lighter typing experience would gravitate towards the Sakura Pink, while individuals desiring a stronger push and more substantial typing feedback might lean towards the Meteor Orange. By considering the actuation force and bottom out force, users can select the switch that aligns with their desired typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch have the same 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 travel distance from the top to the bottom. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of the tactile feedback and key responsiveness provided by both 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 Everglide Sakura Pink has an MSRP of $6.86 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Sakura Pink for $3.89.
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 tactile switch is best described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that it produces a moderate sound when pressed, suitable for most purposes. It neither leans towards being loud nor too quiet, providing a balanced auditory experience. On the other hand, the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch is known for having a muted sound. This means that it produces a softer and quieter sound compared to regular switches, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. The Sakura Pink's muted sound adds a touch of tranquility during typing sessions, reminiscent of popping bubble wrap. It is worth noting that the actual sound produced by the switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
When it comes to feel, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch is characterized as mild and polished. The mild feel indicates a gentle typing experience that falls within a safe middle-ground zone, making it approachable for most users. Additionally, the switch's polished nature provides a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Conversely, the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch offers a buttery and creamy typing experience. The switch's buttery feel implies a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is seamless and effortless. Additionally, the creamy sensation of typing on these switches can be attributed to lubricant applied in the factory or specific materials, allowing your fingers to glide easily across the keys with minimal resistance. The Sakura Pink's easy-to-press and frictionless qualities further enhance the typing experience, offering a responsive and low-impact feel.
To conclude, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch stands out for its soft and seductive tactility, neutral sound profile, and mild and polished feel. On the other hand, the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch excels with its feather-light actuation force, gliding type feel, muted sound, and buttery, creamy typing experience. Both switches provide subjective qualities that cater to different preferences and typing styles. If you enjoy a softer sound and a smooth, effortless typing experience, the Sakura Pink is an excellent choice. If you prefer a balanced sound profile, a gentle typing experience, and refined key travel, the Meteor Orange provides a great option. Depending on your specific needs, either switch can deliver satisfying results.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you value a gentle and seductive tactile typing experience with a moderate sound profile, then the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch is the way to go. With its medium-light 57g bottom out force, these switches offer a neutral and thocky sound that is suitable for both beginners and advanced typists. Additionally, the Meteor Orange switch provides a mild and polished feel, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a feather-light and effortless typing experience with a softer and quieter sound, the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch is the perfect choice. With its light 45g bottom out force, these switches are ideal for delicate typists and offer a muted sound that minimizes the noise commonly associated with mechanical keyboards. The Sakura Pink switch provides a buttery and creamy feel, offering a seamless and uniform typing sensation with easy-to-press and frictionless properties.
Ultimately, the decision between the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Everglide Sakura Pink linear switch depends on your preference for tactile feedback, sound profile, and typing feel. Consider your desired typing experience and choose accordingly. Both switches offer unique qualities that will enhance your overall keyboarding sessions.
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