SP-Star Meteor Orange vs. TTC Silent Brown
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the TTC Silent Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two options that stand out are the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the TTC Silent Brown. The Meteor Orange switches are highly regarded for their exquisite gentleness, boasting a soft and seductive tactility that many users find delightful. With a neutral sound profile, these switches provide a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, the Silent Brown switches offer a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a satisfying rounded tactile bump. Users particularly appreciate the muted sound profile of these switches. While these generalities may help you get a sense of which switch you might prefer, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.80 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Meteor Orange and TTC Silent Brown switches offer contrasting sound profiles. The Meteor Orange's nylon top and bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound due to its relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound profile. In contrast, the Silent Brown's polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housing combination generates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The stiff nature of the polycarbonate creates a more clear and resonant sound, particularly beneficial for those planning to use RGB lighting. Therefore, the Silent Brown switch provides a more distinct and vibrant sound profile compared to the Meteor Orange switch.
Although the top and bottom housings of the Meteor Orange and Silent Brown differ, both switches share similarities in terms of sound. As both switches utilize nylon for their bottom housing, the sound profile elicited when pressing down on the keys is deeper and fuller. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a satisfying tactile experience. However, the quality of the sound when releasing a key will differ. The Meteor Orange's nylon top housing contributes to a duller and rounder release sound, whereas the Silent Brown's polycarbonate top housing creates a clearer and more resonant sound. Despite these differences, users can still expect similar satisfaction when typing on both switches, especially in terms of the bottom-out sound.
Considering the aesthetics, the Meteor Orange and Silent Brown switches also showcase distinct differences. The Meteor Orange switch's nylon top housing lacks translucency, giving it a more traditional and opaque appearance. In contrast, the Silent Brown's polycarbonate top housing allows it to be clear, making it perfect for users who plan to utilize RGB lighting. The translucency of the polycarbonate housing enhances the visual effect of the lighting, creating a more vibrant and eye-catching keyboard. Therefore, those seeking a switch that complements the visual appeal of RGB lighting would prefer the Silent Brown, while users valuing a more classic and non-translucent look may opt for the Meteor Orange.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, it is clear that they exhibit some differences. The actuation force of the Meteor Orange switch is unfortunately unavailable, making a direct comparison difficult. However, for those seeking a lighter typing experience, the Meteor Orange may be more suitable due to its medium-light bottom out force of 57 grams.
On the other hand, the Silent Brown switch boasts an actuation force of 45 grams, making it slightly lighter than the Meteor Orange (assuming the actuation force of the Meteor Orange is not significantly lower). However, when it comes to bottoming out, the Silent Brown switch has a medium-heavy force of 63.5 grams. This heavier force may appeal to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel.
Ultimately, the choice between these switches depends on personal preference. Those who enjoy a lighter typing experience for extended periods, such as for work or long gaming sessions, may lean towards the Meteor Orange switch due to its potential lighter actuation force. However, if someone prefers a stronger push and a more substantial typing feel, the Silent Brown switch may be more suitable with its slightly lighter actuation force but heavier bottom out force.
In summary, while the actuation force of the Meteor Orange switch is unknown, its bottom out force is medium-light. In comparison, the Silent Brown switch has a lighter actuation force but a medium-heavy bottom out force. Choosing between them depends on individual preferences and whether a lighter or heavier typing experience is desired.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch, it can be seen that the Meteor Orange has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Silent Brown has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with 4.0 mm being the more common option. Gamers, in particular, often prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times, making the Silent Brown a potentially favorable choice in this regard. However, for those who prefer a more substantial key press, the Meteor Orange with its slightly longer travel distance may provide a more satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired level of responsiveness.
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 TTC Silent Brown has an MSRP of $5.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Brown for $3.68.
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
When it comes to sound, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch has a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate actuation force requirement and produces a moderate sound when pressed. It is suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work. On the other hand, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch offers a muted sound profile. It produces a softer and quieter sound compared to a regular or clacky switch. This switch is designed to minimize the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch provides a mild and gentle typing experience. It falls in a safe middle-ground zone, making it approachable to most users. Additionally, this switch is described as polished, indicating a smooth and refined finish. This results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch is also described as mild and polished. It offers a smooth and fluid keystroke experience, providing a seamless, effortless, and uniform typing sensation. Like the Meteor Orange switch, it also has a gentle and approachable feel that is suitable for most users.
In conclusion, both the SP-Star Meteor Orange and TTC Silent Brown tactile switches offer desirable qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Meteor Orange switch has a neutral sound profile, while the Silent Brown switch has a muted sound profile. Both switches provide a mild and gentle typing experience, with a smooth and polished feel. These switches are suitable for most users, regardless of their experience level. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference and the specific requirements of the user. However, if you enjoy the qualities described, you can expect similar results with either 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 a great choice. It offers a comfortable typing experience with a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users, whether you use it at home or work. Additionally, the Meteor Orange switch has a mild and polished feel, providing smooth key travel and reduced friction.
On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a satisfying rounded tactile bump, the TTC Silent Brown tactile switch is a suitable option. It offers a comfortable typing experience with a light-medium level of resistance and a muted sound profile, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. The Silent Brown switch also has a mild and polished feel, providing a seamless and uniform typing sensation.
Ultimately, the choice between the SP-Star Meteor Orange and TTC Silent Brown switches depends on your personal preference for the desired bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel. Consider whether you prefer a softer or more pronounced tactile feedback, as well as the weight of the switch. Both switches offer a high-quality typing experience, so it ultimately comes down to your individual preferences.
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