SP-Star Meteor Orange vs. Gateron Smoothie
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Gateron Smoothie switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, it's important to note the distinct characteristics of each. The Meteor Orange is praised for its gentle tactility and neutral sound profile, making it a popular choice for those who prefer a softer typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie stands out for its all-POM construction, offering a thocky sound signature, smoothness, and a light touch at a budget-friendly price point. While the Meteor Orange excels in providing a subtle and polished typing feel, the Smoothie delivers a buttery and creamy 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
40g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Gateron Smoothie, one can see that both switches utilize different materials for their top and bottom housings. The Meteor Orange features a nylon top housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound. In contrast, the Smoothie boasts a POM top housing that produces a pleasing and unique sound profile on the deeper side. Despite this difference, both materials offer a similar result in terms of sound quality, with each contributing to a distinct auditory experience.
Moving on to the bottom housings of these switches, the Meteor Orange once again utilizes nylon, while the Smoothie features a POM bottom housing. This split in housing materials means that the qualities of each material are felt differently when actuating the switch. The bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when releasing a key. Both nylon and POM provide their own unique characteristics to the overall typing experience, showcasing the importance of housing materials in switch design.
Overall, the differences between the Nylon and POM housing materials in the SP-Star Meteor Orange and Gateron Smoothie switches offer users a range of sound profiles to choose from. While the Nylon housing in the Meteor Orange creates a duller and rounder sound, the POM housing in the Smoothie results in a more muted and unique sound profile. Both switches have their own strengths and weaknesses in terms of sound quality, demonstrating how housing materials play a crucial role in determining the overall typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, it is clear that the actuation and bottom out forces differ between the two. The Meteor Orange has an actuation force of None grams, making it relatively light when it comes to triggering keystrokes, while its bottom out force is 57 grams, providing a medium-light typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch has an actuation force of 40 grams, indicating a slightly heavier initial push required for keystrokes, although its bottom out force is unknown. This means that the Smoothie may offer a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel, while the Meteor Orange may be better suited for those looking for a lighter typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is longer than the Gateron Smoothie linear switch's travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Meteor Orange offers a traditional travel distance, while the Smoothie provides a slightly shorter distance. Gamers may prefer the Smoothie for its faster response times due to the shorter travel distance, while those looking for a more substantial keypress may gravitate towards the Meteor Orange. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style. Both switches offer unique advantages, so depending on your needs, you can achieve similar results with either option.
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 Gateron Smoothie has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie for $2.60.
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 switch offers a neutral profile that suits a wide range of users, whether beginners or seasoned enthusiasts, with a moderate sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch provides a thocky and low-pitched sound that is deep and rich, offering a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Both switches excel in producing satisfying and pleasing sound signatures that enhance the overall typing experience. Users can expect similar results in terms of sound quality from both switches, with the Meteor Orange being neutral and the Smoothie offering a thocky and subdued sound.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Meteor Orange tactile switch is praised for its mild and polished typing experience, providing a gentle and refined feel that is approachable to most users. In contrast, the Gateron Smoothie linear switch offers a buttery, creamy, and silky typing sensation, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is seamless and effortless. While the Meteor Orange switch focuses on a more neutral and polished feel, the Smoothie switch emphasizes a buttery and creamy typing experience that is exceptionally smooth. Users can expect a different feel between the two switches, with the Meteor Orange being mild and polished, while the Smoothie offers a buttery and creamy typing sensation.
In conclusion, the SP-Star Meteor Orange and Gateron Smoothie switches each bring unique qualities to the table in terms of sound and feel. The Meteor Orange switch provides a gentle and neutral typing experience with a moderate sound profile, while the Smoothie switch offers a thocky and low-pitched sound with a buttery and creamy typing sensation. Depending on personal preferences and typing style, users can choose between the Meteor Orange for a softer and more refined feel, or the Smoothie for a smoother and more buttery typing experience. Ultimately, both switches deliver high-quality performance and elevate the overall typing experience for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Gateron Smoothie linear switch, consider your preferences for typing feel and sound profile. If you prefer a gentle and soft tactile typing experience with a neutral sound profile, the Meteor Orange may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you value a thocky sound signature, remarkable smoothness, and a lightweight touch, the Gateron Smoothie might be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound, as both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences.
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