SP-Star Meteor Orange vs. Jerrzi Seashell
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Jerrzi Seashell switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Jerrzi Seashell are two popular choices with distinct characteristics. The Meteor Orange switch is a tactile option, known for its gentle tactility and neutral sound profile. On the other hand, the Seashell switch is a linear option, prized for its stunning purple hue and light, clacky feel. While the Meteor Orange offers a soft and seductive typing experience, the Seashell switch provides a comfortable and delightful feel that is enjoyable over extended periods of use. 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
1.20 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Jerrzi Seashell, one can see a distinct difference in the type of sound profile produced. The Meteor Orange's nylon top housing results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic composition, which absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Seashell's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile because of its stiffer plastic composition, allowing for a clearer and more resonant sound. The choice between these two housing materials ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound characteristics.
On the other hand, when looking at the bottom housing materials of the Meteor Orange and the Seashell, both utilize nylon for this component. This classic switch housing material results in a similar sound profile for both switches, with a deeper and fuller sound when typing due to the softer plastic absorbing more sound. This similarity in bottom housing materials may result in a comparable typing experience for users of both switches, as the qualities brought by the nylon material remain consistent across the two options.
Overall, the choice between the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Jerrzi Seashell ultimately comes down to the specific sound profile and typing experience that users prefer. The difference in top housing materials, with the Meteor Orange featuring nylon and the Seashell utilizing polycarbonate, leads to distinct sound characteristics such as duller and rounder versus sharper and crisper sounds. However, the shared use of nylon for the bottom housing results in a similar typing experience for both switches. Ultimately, users should consider these differences in housing materials when selecting a switch that aligns with their preferences for sound and feel.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch differ significantly. The Meteor Orange has a bottom out force of 57 grams, providing a medium-light touch, while the Seashell's bottom out force is unknown. The actuation force of the Seashell is 45 grams, indicating a lighter touch compared to the Meteor Orange, which has a None gram actuation force. The lighter actuation force of the Seashell may be preferred by those who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions, while the heavier bottom out force of the Meteor Orange may appeal to individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience. Despite these differences, both switches offer unique typing experiences based on their respective force requirements.
Travel distance
The SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. In this case, the Seashell linear switch has a shorter travel distance compared to the Meteor Orange tactile switch. The Meteor Orange provides a more traditional travel distance, which some users may find more comfortable for typing or gaming purposes. On the other hand, the Seashell linear switch offers a slightly shorter travel distance, which can result in faster response times and may be preferred by gamers. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference for travel distance and typing experience.
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 Seashell has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Seashell 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 offers a more neutral and thocky profile, giving a moderate actuation force requirement and a deep, satisfying sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch delivers a clacky and high-pitched sound, producing sharp and crisp tones that can be bright and percussive. Both switches provide unique auditory experiences, with the Meteor Orange offering a milder and more neutral sound compared to the Seashell's more sharp and bright tones.
When it comes to feel, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, providing gentle tactility and a smooth key travel. It falls in a safe middle-ground zone with a comfortable typing feel. Conversely, the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch boasts a feathery and easy-to-press nature, requiring minimal force to activate and reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Both switches offer comfortable typing experiences, with the Meteor Orange focusing more on a refined and gentle feel, while the Seashell prioritizes light and effortless key presses.
Overall, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch offer unique characteristics in terms of sound and feel. The Meteor Orange provides a more neutral and thocky sound with a gentle, polished feel, suitable for various typing needs. In contrast, the Seashell delivers a clacky and high-pitched sound with a feathery, easy-to-press feel that enhances typing comfort over extended periods. Depending on personal preferences for sound and typing experience, both switches offer standout qualities that cater to different typing styles and preferences. Ultimately, trying out both switches can help determine which one aligns best with individual preferences and typing habits.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Jerrzi Seashell linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a soft and gentle tactility with a neutral sound profile, the Meteor Orange switch is a great choice. On the other hand, if you enjoy a light and clacky typing experience with a stunning aesthetic, the Seashell switch is the way to go. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize tactility and sound profile (Meteor Orange) or lightness and sound characteristics (Seashell) in your mechanical keyboard switch selection.
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