SP-Star Meteor Orange vs. Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, there are a multitude of options available to cater to various preferences. Two popular choices are the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring, both of which fall under the tactile switch category. The Meteor Orange switches are known for their exquisite gentleness, offering a soft and seductive tactility that is accompanied by a pleasingly neutral sound profile. On the other hand, if you seek a tactile switch with a medium-high level of tactility, the Shadow Double Spring variant may be perfect for you. These switches feature a long, two-staged spring that enhances the tactile feedback, resulting in a satisfying typing experience with deep, resonating thocks. While these general descriptions highlight the strengths of each switch, let's now delve deeper into their characteristics to help you make the best decision based on your personal preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
63g
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
No
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
20mm dual-stage spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switches differ significantly. The Meteor Orange features a nylon top housing, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring utilizes a polycarbonate top housing. The nylon top housing of the Meteor Orange contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on the switch. On the contrary, the polycarbonate top housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring generates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate creates a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, polycarbonate's translucency makes it ideal for switches that incorporate RGB lighting.
Similarly, the nylon bottom housing of the Meteor Orange and the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring provide distinct sound characteristics. The softer nature of nylon in the Meteor Orange absorbs more sound, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. Conversely, the stiffer polycarbonate bottom housing in the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Aesthetically, the translucency of polycarbonate in the bottom housing is ideal for switches with RGB lighting, similar to its application in the top housing.
When a switch has different top and bottom housings, the qualities of each material are distributed between the bottom-out and release sounds and feel. Pressing down on the switch will predominantly reflect the characteristics of the bottom housing, impacting the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing will have a more pronounced influence on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the choice of housing materials in both the top and bottom components significantly contributes to the overall typing experience and auditory feedback of a switch.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Meteor Orange's actuation force is unavailable, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring requires 55 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Meteor Orange requires 57 grams, which is considered medium-light, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring requires 63 grams, classified as medium.
These variances in force indicate that the Meteor Orange switch may be lighter in terms of actuation force compared to the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring. This lightness can be advantageous for those who prefer a lighter typing experience, enabling them to type for longer periods of time without fatigue. This feature makes it well-suited for situations such as using a keyboard at work or during extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring offers a slightly heavier actuation force, providing a more substantial push feel. This may appeal to individuals who prefer a stronger tactile feedback and a more pronounced typing experience.
In terms of bottom out force, both switches exhibit similar characteristics. The Meteor Orange requires 57 grams to bottom out, which is medium-light, while the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring demands 63 grams, falling within the medium range. This similarity suggests that regardless of the actuation force disparities, users of both switches can expect comparable results when it comes to the extent of pressing down on the keys.
Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences. Those seeking a lighter typing experience may find the Meteor Orange switch more suitable, while individuals desiring a stronger push feel may gravitate towards the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a tactile switch plays a crucial role in the overall typing experience. In the case of the SP-Star Meteor Orange and Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switches, both switches have an equal travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either switch, users will experience the same amount of travel from the top to the bottom. Whether you opt for the SP-Star Meteor Orange or the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch, you can expect a consistent and satisfying tactile response with an identical travel distance of 4 mm.
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 Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring has an MSRP of $4.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring for $3.57.
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
The SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch is best known for its exquisitely gentle and soft tactility, resulting in a soft and seductive typing experience. The sound profile of the Meteor Orange switch is described as neutral, which means it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile suitable for most purposes. It produces a deep and satisfying thocky sound when pressed and released.
On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch offers a medium-high level of tactility, perfect for those seeking a tactile switch with a pronounced feedback intensity. The Shadow switch variant features a long, two-staged spring, resulting in a sharp and snappy clacky sound when pressed. The sound is described as crisp, bright, and percussive, providing a distinct typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Meteor Orange switch is known for its mild characteristics, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. It provides a safe middle-ground feel, with a smooth and refined finish thanks to materials used and/or factory lubrication. This results in reduced friction, smooth key travel, and an overall sleek typing experience.
The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch, on the other hand, offers a range of feel characteristics. It is described as sharp and accented, providing a strong and crisp tactile bump that is distinctly felt with each keypress. The switch is also snappy and bouncy, providing a super responsive and lively typing experience. Additionally, the Shadow switch has a stepped feel, which means it has two stages of tactility, with some pre-travel and/or post-travel sensations.
In conclusion, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch offers a soft and seductive experience with a neutral sound profile and a mild feel. It is suitable for most intents and purposes. On the other hand, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch provides a medium-high level of tactility with a sharp and snappy clacky sound and a range of feel characteristics. Both switches offer unique qualities, so the choice depends on the user's preference for tactility, sound type, and typing feel. However, if you prefer a similar result in terms of sound and feel, the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch can offer a comparable experience to the Meteor Orange switch.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-light switch with a soft and seductive tactility, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch is the one for you. It has a bottom out force of 57 grams, making it gentle to type on. With its neutral sound profile, this switch is suitable for various purposes and is beginner-friendly. Additionally, the Meteor Orange switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a medium switch with a medium-high level of tactility, the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switch is a great choice. It has a bottom out force of 63 grams, providing a satisfying amount of feedback with each keypress. These switches are known for their deep and resonating thocks, making typing a delightful experience. The Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch offers a clacky and high-pitched sound profile, perfect for those who enjoy crisp and bright keypress sounds.
Ultimately, your choice between the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Aflion Shadow (Ink) Double Spring tactile switches depends on your preference for tactility, sound, and typing experience. Consider the soft and gentle tactility of the Meteor Orange for a smoother typing experience, or opt for the medium-high tactility and deep thock sounds of the Shadow (Ink) Double Spring switch. Both switches offer different qualities that can enhance your overall typing satisfaction. In the end, it's a matter of personal preference and finding the switch that suits your typing style best.
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