SP-Star Meteor Orange vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a plethora of options available to cater to every typing preference. Two popular choices to consider are the SP-Star Meteor Orange, a tactile switch, and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear, a linear switch. The Meteor Orange switches are best known for their exquisite gentleness and soft, seductive tactility. With a neutral sound profile and a categorization of 'neutral', 'mild', 'thocky', and 'polished', these switches offer a delightful typing experience. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear switch stands out for its innovative design. With a semi-silent attribute, it offers a whisper-quiet topping-out sound while maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound. The type feel of this switch is silky smooth, but not over-polished. Categorized as 'subdued', 'neutral', 'mild', 'snappy', 'buttery', and 'polished', it provides a unique and satisfying typing experience. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
The housing materials of the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches differ in terms of their materials and resulting sound profiles. The Meteor Orange features a nylon top housing, which absorbs more sound due to its relatively softer plastic composition. This creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Semi-Silent Linear utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which is a stiffer plastic that produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The polycarbonate material enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound. Therefore, the housing materials of these switches offer distinct auditory experiences.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Meteor Orange and the Semi-Silent Linear employ nylon as a classic switch housing material. This nylon composition in the bottom housing of the switches contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Since nylon is a relatively softer plastic compared to harder alternatives, it has greater sound absorption capabilities. As a result, both switches offer a similar duller and rounder sound when activated. Despite using the same housing material for the bottom, the impact of the bottom housing on the overall sound and feel of the switch is significant. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, highlighting the importance of a well-designed and appropriate bottom housing for a satisfactory typing experience.
Overall, while the Meteor Orange and Semi-Silent Linear share the use of nylon for their bottom housing, their top housing materials differ, resulting in distinctive sound profiles for each switch. The nylon top housing of the Meteor Orange creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, primarily due to its sound-absorbing properties. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the Semi-Silent Linear contributes to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, emphasizing clarity and resonance. The choice of housing materials significantly impacts the overall audio experience when typing on these switches, highlighting the importance of considering the specific characteristics of the housing materials when selecting a switch for individual preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, there are both similarities and differences. Starting with the actuation force, the exact measurement is unknown for both switches. However, we can assume that they are relatively similar since they are not specified differently. Therefore, one can expect to achieve similar results in terms of triggering a keystroke for both switches.
Moving on to the bottom out force, we can see that the Meteor Orange requires a lighter force compared to the Semi-Silent Linear. The Meteor Orange has a bottom out force of 57 grams, which falls under the category of medium-light, whereas the Semi-Silent Linear has a bottom out force of 62 grams, which falls within the medium range. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Meteor Orange could be a suitable choice, as it allows for longer periods of typing without fatigue. On the other hand, if a stronger push feel is desired to have a more substantial typing experience, the Semi-Silent Linear, with its slightly heavier force, might be the preferred option. Ultimately, the decision between the two would depend on personal preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch is 4 mm, while the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. This means that the Meteor Orange has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Semi-Silent Linear. Generally, a travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered to be the most traditional, while a distance of 3.0 mm is the most shallow. However, shorter travel distances are becoming more popular, particularly among gamers who value faster response times. If you prefer a more responsive feel, the shorter 3.7 mm travel distance of the Semi-Silent Linear may be a better choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a deeper keystroke, the longer 4 mm travel distance of the Meteor Orange may be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
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 Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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 known for its neutral sound profile, making it suitable for most intents and purposes. It does not produce a particularly loud or clacky sound when pressed and released. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch has a more subdued sound. While not completely silent, it offers a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. It has a whisper-quiet topping-out sound, while still maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound. Both switches fall under the neutral descriptor, meaning they have a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile. The choice of board and keycaps can also play a role in the sound produced, offering some customization options to further tailor the sound to your preference.
As for feel, both the Meteor Orange and the Semi-Silent Linear switches are described as providing a gentle typing experience. They offer a safe middle-ground zone in terms of tactile feedback and actuation force. The Meteor Orange switch is mild and has a soft and seductive tactility. It is known for its exquisitely gentle feel that will be approachable to most users. The Semi-Silent Linear switch, in addition to its mild characteristic, is also described as snappy and buttery. This means it has a super responsive typing experience, and the keystrokes feel smooth, fluid, and effortless. Both switches are also considered polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience. This can be attributed to quality materials used or factory lubing, which reduces friction and provides smooth key travel.
Considering all the available information, it is evident that both switches offer desirable qualities. The SP-Star Meteor Orange switch stands out with its soft and seductive tactility, providing a gentle typing experience. It has a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for most scenarios. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch offers a unique combination of a subdued sound with a whisper-quiet topping-out sound and a clacky bottom-out sound. Its feel is described as mild, snappy, and buttery, delivering a super responsive and smooth typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches would depend on personal preference and the specific requirements of the user. However, it is worth noting that both switches fall under the neutral descriptor, indicating that regardless of the choice, users can expect similar results in terms of actuation force requirement and sound profile.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a soft and seductive tactility with a neutral sound profile, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch is the one for you. With a bottom out force of 57 grams, it offers a medium-light typing experience. Furthermore, the Meteor Orange switch is described as having a mild feel, providing a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most individuals. Additionally, its polished finish ensures smooth and refined keystrokes.
On the other hand, if you prefer a semi-silent switch with a medium bottom out force of 62 grams, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch is an excellent choice. It features a whisper-quiet topping-out sound while maintaining a clacky bottom-out sound. Described as having a subdued sound profile, it offers a more subtle sound signature compared to most switches. In terms of feel, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch provides a mild typing experience, similar to the Meteor Orange, but also boasts a snappy and buttery feel, resulting in super responsive and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, the choice between the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch depends on your preferences for sound and feel. Both switches offer a neutral sound profile and mild typing experience, but the Meteor Orange is known for its soft tactility and polished finish, while the Semi-Silent Linear provides a semi-silent typing experience with a snappy and buttery feel. Consider your specific requirements and desired keyboard experience to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup. In the end, whichever switch you choose, you will undoubtedly have a fantastic typing experience.
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