SP-Star Meteor Orange vs. TTC Silent Frozen (V2)
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the TTC Silent Frozen (V2) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the TTC Silent Frozen are two contenders worth considering. The Meteor Orange switch is known for its exquisitely gentle nature, boasting a soft and seductive tactility complemented by its neutral sound profile. Categorized as neutral, mild, thocky, and polished, these switches provide a satisfying typing experience without drawing unnecessary attention. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen switch from TTC stands out for its extreme quietness, making it an ideal choice for those who value a noiseless environment. These switches are not only super smooth but also offer a pillowy typing feel. Categorized as thocky, low-pitched, creamy, buttery, muted, feathery, subtle, and polished, they provide a buttery-smooth typing experience that is both pleasing and refined. However, let's delve deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
39g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
43g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Silver white spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the TTC Silent Frozen switches differ both in their top and bottom housings. The Meteor Orange features a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound with a duller and rounder profile. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. This difference in materials leads to distinct sound profiles when typing on these switches.
Similarly, the bottom housings of these switches also differ in material. The Meteor Orange has a nylon bottom housing, contributing to a deeper and fuller sound profile when bottoming out. In contrast, the Silent Frozen utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which leads to a clearer and more resonant sound during bottom-out. This difference in material influences the tactile feedback and sound experience when pressing down on these switches.
It is important to note that when using a switch with different top and bottom housings, the qualities of each material will be felt and heard differently. When pressing down on the switch, the characteristics of the bottom housing will be more prominent, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound produced when releasing a key. This distinction allows for a more dynamic and customizable typing experience depending on the user's preference and desired sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch to the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch, there are notable differences in their actuation force and bottom out force. The Meteor Orange's actuation force is unknown, while the Silent Frozen has an actuation force of 39 grams, making it lighter. In terms of bottom out force, the Meteor Orange requires 57 grams, which is considered medium-light, while the Silent Frozen requires 43 grams, indicating a lighter force.
Considering weight as a factor, those who prefer a lighter typing experience might opt for the Silent Frozen switch, as its lower actuation and bottom out forces allow for easier keystrokes and potentially longer typing sessions. On the other hand, some individuals may desire a more substantial typing feel with a stronger push, in which case the Meteor Orange switch, with its unknown but potentially heavier actuation force, may be more suitable.
In summary, the SP-Star Meteor Orange and TTC Silent Frozen differ in their actuation and bottom out forces, with the Silent Frozen being lighter in both aspects. Therefore, those seeking a lighter typing experience may find the Silent Frozen more suitable, while individuals desiring a heavier and more substantial feel may lean towards the Meteor Orange.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch is 4 mm, while the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch has a travel distance of 3.5 mm. In terms of length, the Meteor Orange has a slightly longer travel distance. A travel distance of 4.0 mm is considered more traditional, offering a balance between responsiveness and depth. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen's shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm may appeal to gamers who prioritize faster response times. The shorter distance allows for quicker key presses and therefore a potentially quicker response in gaming scenarios. However, those who prefer a more substantial keystroke may find the shorter travel distance of the Silent Frozen to feel too abrupt. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the desired balance between responsiveness and depth.
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 Frozen (V2) has an MSRP of $8.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Silent Frozen (V2) for $5.33.
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 Meteor Orange switch is known for its soft and seductive tactility, resulting in a gentle typing experience. It has a neutral sound profile, which means it produces a moderate sound when pressed and released. The Silent Frozen switch, on the other hand, is characterized by its extremely quiet sound profile. It produces a thocky sound, a deep and satisfying noise, accompanied by a low-pitched and muted tone.
In terms of feel, the Meteor Orange switch offers a mild typing experience. It falls in the safe middle-ground zone, providing a gentle typing sensation suitable for most users. The switch is also polished, meaning it has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Silent Frozen switch, however, takes the typing experience to a creamy and buttery level. It offers a silky sensation and seamless keystrokes, thanks to the lubrication applied in the factory or specific materials used. It is also feathery and subtle, requiring little exertion from the fingers and reducing finger fatigue. Similar to the Meteor Orange, the Silent Frozen switch is also polished, ensuring a smooth and refined typing experience.
Considering the available information, it is clear that both the SP-Star Meteor Orange and TTC Silent Frozen switches excel in different areas. The Meteor Orange switch offers a soft and seductive tactility, a suitable sound profile, and a mild typing experience with polished smoothness. On the other hand, the Silent Frozen switch boasts an extremely quiet sound profile, creamy and buttery typing sensation, and a feathery and subtle feel. Depending on individual preferences, both switches provide unique qualities that contribute to an enjoyable and satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you're looking for a medium-light switch with soft and seductive tactility, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch would be an excellent choice. With a bottom out force of 57 grams, it provides a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. The sound profile of the Meteor Orange is described as neutral, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced typists, whether you're using it at home or work. Additionally, the polished finish of these switches ensures smooth and refined key travel, minimizing friction and enhancing the overall typing experience.
On the other hand, if you prioritize a quiet typing experience, the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch would be the better option. With a lower bottom out force of 43 grams, this switch offers a light and feathery feel, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. The Silent Frozen switch is known for its extremely quiet sound profile, making it ideal for shared spaces. Additionally, the creamy and buttery characteristics of these switches provide a smooth and effortless keystroke experience, enhancing typing comfort and precision.
Ultimately, the choice between the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the TTC Silent Frozen linear switch depends on your preferences for typing force, sound profile, and overall feel. Consider whether you value gentle tactility and a polished typing experience, or prioritize a quiet and smooth keystroke feel. With this information in mind, you can make an informed decision on which switch best suits your needs.
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