SP-Star Meteor Orange vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch to the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, it's clear that each offers unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Meteor Orange switches are praised for their gentle tactility and neutral sound profile, making them a favorite among those who enjoy a softer typing experience. In contrast, the Salt Ice switches stand out with their bright and clacky characteristics, paired with a light touch for a more energetic and responsive typing feel. While the Meteor Orange switch may appeal to those looking for a subtle typing experience, the Salt Ice switch is a great option for users seeking vibrant feedback and effortless actuation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The main difference between the housing materials of the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Jerrzi Salt Ice lies in the type of plastic used. The Meteor Orange utilizes nylon for both its top and bottom housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer nature. On the other hand, the Salt Ice employs polycarbonate for both its top and bottom housing, producing a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile because of polycarbonate's stiffer characteristics. This contrast in materials leads to a noticeable difference in the overall typing experience and sound output between the two switches.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the Meteor Orange and Salt Ice switches differ, the intended effect on sound and feel remains consistent. Both switches aim to provide a unique typing experience based on the properties of their respective housing materials. The nylon bottom housing of the Meteor Orange creates a deeper sound profile upon bottoming out a key, offering a rounder and duller sound. Similarly, the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Salt Ice delivers a crisper and higher-pitched sound when typing. Despite the material variance, both switches prioritize enhancing the user's tactile and auditory experience through their distinct housing compositions.
In conclusion, the choice of housing materials for the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Jerrzi Salt Ice showcases how different plastics can impact the overall sound profile and typing feel of a switch. While nylon and polycarbonate offer unique sonic characteristics, the goal of both switches is to elevate the typing experience for users. Whether it be the softer nylon creating a fuller sound in the Meteor Orange or the stiffer polycarbonate delivering a sharper sound in the Salt Ice, each switch's housing material plays a vital role in shaping its signature sound profile. Ultimately, the selection between these two switches comes down to personal preference for sound and feel based on the distinct properties of their housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, it is clear that the Meteor Orange is lighter in terms of bottom out force, requiring 57 grams compared to the Salt Ice's unknown force. However, the Salt Ice has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, while the Meteor Orange has a force of None grams. This means that the Salt Ice may provide a lighter initial push, while the Meteor Orange offers a lighter feel when fully pressed. Ultimately, individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Jerrzi Salt Ice, while those who enjoy a more substantial feel may opt for the SP-Star Meteor Orange. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, allowing users to customize their typing experience accordingly.
Travel distance
The SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, making it the longer option compared to the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch with a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The Meteor Orange would provide a slightly deeper key press compared to the Salt Ice. Gamers looking for faster response times may lean towards the Salt Ice due to its shorter travel distance, while those who prefer a more substantial key press may prefer the Meteor Orange. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference regarding key press depth and responsiveness. Both switches offer a different tactile experience, but both can provide satisfying results depending on the user's preference.
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 Jerrzi Salt Ice has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Salt Ice for $2.30.
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 characterized by its neutral sound profile, providing a moderate actuation force requirement suitable for a wide range of users and purposes. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch lacks specific information regarding its sound profile, leaving it uncertain how it compares to the Meteor Orange in terms of auditory feedback. It is important to note that individual preferences for sound can vary greatly and may also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and the type of keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Meteor Orange tactile switch offers a mild typing experience with gentle tactility, making it approachable to most users. Additionally, it is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that enhances the overall typing feel by reducing friction and providing a sleek key travel. Conversely, there is no information available regarding the tactile feel of the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, leaving an uncertainty about how it compares to the Meteor Orange in terms of typing comfort and feedback.
In conclusion, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch stands out for its soft and seductive tactility, neutral sound profile, and gentle typing experience with a polished finish. While the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch is highlighted for its bright and clacky characteristics, complemented by a light touch and vibrant feedback. The lack of specific information about the Salt Ice switch's sound and feel makes it difficult to provide a direct comparison to the Meteor Orange. Ultimately, personal preferences and typing style will greatly influence which switch is more suitable for individual users, and experimenting with both switches may be necessary to determine the best match for specific preferences and requirements.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, you should consider your preference for actuation force and typing experience. If you prefer a medium-light bottom out force and a gentle, soft tactility with a neutral sound profile, the Meteor Orange switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a switch with a bright and clacky feel, accompanied by vibrant feedback and effortless actuation, the Salt Ice switch may be the better option for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style and preference for sound and feel.
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