SP-Star Meteor Orange vs. Akko V3 Silver Pro
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Akko V3 Silver Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch to the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, there are notable differences in their characteristics and intended uses. The Meteor Orange switches are renowned for their gentle and tactile feedback, providing a satisfying typing experience with a neutral sound profile. On the other hand, the V3 Silver Pro switches are tailored for gamers, offering effortless keystrokes and a bassy sound, thanks to their light actuation force and shortened travel distance. Both switches have their unique qualities that cater to different preferences and needs. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
13.8mm spring
Housing materials
Overall, the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Akko V3 Silver Pro have different housing materials for both the top and bottom of the switch. The Meteor Orange features a nylon top and bottom housing, which provides a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. In comparison, the V3 Silver Pro utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, resulting in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile because of its stiffer plastic composition. While both switches have nylon bottom housings, the V3 Silver Pro's top housing made from polycarbonate gives it a different sound profile compared to the Meteor Orange.
The use of different housing materials in the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Akko V3 Silver Pro not only affects the sound profile but also the aesthetics of the switches. The translucent nature of polycarbonate used in the V3 Silver Pro's top housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the visual appeal of the switch. On the other hand, the solid nylon housing of the Meteor Orange may not allow for as much light transmission but still provides a classic and durable feel to the switch. Despite these differences, both switches offer a unique typing experience based on their housing materials.
Ultimately, the choice between the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Akko V3 Silver Pro comes down to personal preference in terms of sound profile, aesthetics, and typing feel. While the Nylon top and bottom housing of the Meteor Orange offer a deep and fuller sound, the Polycarbonate top housing of the V3 Silver Pro provides a crisper and sharper sound. Whether you prefer a duller and rounder sound or a more clear and resonant sound, both switches offer distinct qualities that cater to different preferences. Additionally, the translucent nature of the V3 Silver Pro's top housing may be appealing for those who prioritize RGB lighting in their setup, while the solid nylon housing of the Meteor Orange offers a classic and reliable typing experience.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, it is clear that the V3 Silver Pro is the lighter option. The V3 Silver Pro has an actuation force of 40 grams, making it a light switch, while the Meteor Orange has an actuation force of None grams, which is unknown. However, the bottom out force of the Meteor Orange is 57 grams, which is medium-light, whereas the V3 Silver Pro has a bottom out force of 45 grams, which is lighter. Despite not knowing the exact actuation force of the Meteor Orange, it can be inferred that it is likely heavier than the V3 Silver Pro due to its higher bottom out force. This means that typing on the Meteor Orange may provide a more substantial typing experience compared to the lighter V3 Silver Pro. Both switches offer different levels of resistance, catering to users who prefer either a lighter or heavier typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. In this case, the Akko V3 Silver Pro has a shorter travel distance compared to the SP-Star Meteor Orange. The difference may seem small, but it can impact the typing or gaming experience significantly. Gamers who prefer faster response times might opt for the Akko V3 Silver Pro with its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial key press may lean towards the SP-Star Meteor Orange with its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preference and the type of typing or gaming experience one is looking for.
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 Akko V3 Silver Pro has an MSRP of $4.22 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the V3 Silver Pro for $3.10.
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 offers a neutral sound profile that is suitable for a variety of settings, whether you're a beginner or an advanced user. On the other hand, the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch produces a high-pitched sound that is sharp and crisp. The choice between the two switches will depend on your preference for sound, with the Meteor Orange providing a more moderate and thocky sound while the V3 Silver Pro offering a higher-pitched tone.
In terms of feel, the Meteor Orange switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, offering a gentle typing feel that is approachable to most users. The V3 Silver Pro switch, on the other hand, is easy-to-press and creamy, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience that reduces finger fatigue during extended use. Both switches feature a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel, enhancing the overall typing experience.
In conclusion, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. The Meteor Orange switch is known for its soft tactility and neutral sound profile, while the V3 Silver Pro switch is engineered for gamers with its light actuation force and satisfying bassy sound. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on your personal preference for sound and feel, with both switches providing a satisfying and comfortable typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Akko V3 Silver Pro linear switch, you should consider your preferences and needs. If you value a more gentle and neutral typing experience with a soft and seductive tactility, the Meteor Orange switch may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are a gamer looking for a switch that offers light actuation force, effortless keystrokes, and a pleasing bassy sound, then the Akko V3 Silver Pro switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your specific typing style, preferences, and intended use of the keyboard. Choose wisely to enhance your overall typing experience.
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