SP-Star Meteor Orange vs. Jwick Splash Brothers
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Jwick Splash Brothers switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Jwick Splash Brothers offer different experiences for users with their distinct features. The Meteor Orange switches are recognized for their exquisite gentleness, providing a soft and seductive tactility that is complemented by a neutral sound profile. Categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', and 'Polished', these switches offer a comfortable typing experience with a refined feel. On the other hand, the Splash Brothers switches draw inspiration from the dynamic duo of Steph and Klay in basketball, offering a linear "speed" switch that stands out. With a shorter activation and a long pole stem, these switches provide a unique typing feel that is complemented by a creamy sound signature. Categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Snappy', 'Bouncy', 'Subtle', and 'Polished', they offer an engaging and responsive 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
48g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.00 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Extended long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Jwick Splash Brothers switches differ in their composition and resultant sound profiles. The Meteor Orange's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound due to the softer nature of nylon, which absorbs more sound than harder plastics. In contrast, the Splash Brothers' polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound because polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that creates a more resonant sound. While the materials are different, both switches deliver unique sound profiles that can enhance the typing experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both the Meteor Orange and the Splash Brothers utilize nylon as the material. This classic switch housing material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile in both switches. The nylon's softer plastic composition absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Thus, despite having different top housings, both switches benefit from the similar characteristics of nylon in terms of sound production.
When it comes to the overall typing experience, the combination of top and bottom housing materials dictates the qualities expressed during the keystrokes. While pressing down on these switches, the bottom housing material plays a more prominent role in the sound and feel of the bottom-out action. On the other hand, the top housing material influences the sound when you release the key, providing a distinct audible element. Therefore, the differences in housing materials between the Meteor Orange and the Splash Brothers may result in unique typing experiences, but both switches are capable of delivering impressive sound profiles.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch, it is important to note their differences. The actuation force of the Meteor Orange is not specified, while the Splash Brothers also has an unavailable actuation force. However, the bottom out force of the Meteor Orange is heavier at 57 grams, labeled as medium-light, compared to the bottom out force of the Splash Brothers which is lighter at 48 grams.
Considering weight, some individuals prefer lighter switches as it allows for longer periods of typing, which is beneficial for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, others prefer a heavier actuation force for a more substantial typing experience. Those seeking a stronger push feel would likely prefer switches with heavier forces.
In terms of actuation force, both switches have unspecified values, making it difficult to draw a direct comparison. However, it can be assumed that similar results can be achieved with both switches if the undisclosed actuation forces are close to each other.
In conclusion, while the Meteor Orange has a heavier bottom out force compared to the Splash Brothers, the actuation forces are not provided. Ultimately, the preference for a lighter or heavier switch will depend on an individual's typing style and desired key force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch is 4 mm, while the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The Meteor Orange falls into the category of a more traditional travel distance at 4.0 mm, while the Splash Brothers offers a slightly shallower experience at 3.5 mm. Gamers, in particular, tend to prefer shorter travel distances for faster response times, making the Splash Brothers a popular choice among this group. However, for those who prefer a deeper typing experience, the Meteor Orange with its longer travel distance may be more suitable. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on individual preferences for 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 Jwick Splash Brothers comes in at $2.49 per 10 switches.
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 exquisite gentle tactility and neutral sound profile. It falls under the category of a mild switch, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. The switch has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch is also described as having a neutral sound profile. It is known for its shorter activation and long pole stem, which contribute to a great typing feel. The switch is categorized as both mild and snappy, meaning it offers a gentle typing experience with super responsive feedback. It also exhibits a bouncy sensation, giving a lively feel and rebound when pressed. The switch, like the Meteor Orange, has a polished finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In terms of sound, both switches are described as having a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for most purposes. The Meteor Orange is additionally labeled as thocky, which indicates a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed and released. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch is influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, both switches are categorized as mild, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. They also share the quality of having a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Splash Brothers switch has the added qualities of being snappy and bouncy, providing a super responsive and lively feel with rebound when pressed.
In conclusion, both the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch offer pleasant and gentle typing experiences. They are both suitable for most users, whether beginners or advanced, and can be used in various settings such as home or work. The Meteor Orange has a soft and seductive tactility with a neutral and potentially thocky sound profile. The Splash Brothers has a great typing feel with a creamy sound signature, and it combines a mild and polished feel with snappy and bouncy qualities. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches depends on an individual's personal preference for tactile feedback and sound profile.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a switch that offers a soft and seductive tactility along with a neutral sound profile, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. With a bottom out force of 57 grams, it provides a medium-light typing experience that is approachable to most. Additionally, the Meteor Orange switch is described as having a polished finish, resulting in smooth key travel and reduced friction.
On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter switch with a creamy sound signature, the Jwick Splash Brothers linear switch would be a great option. With a bottom out force of 48 grams, it offers a light typing feel that is responsive and snappy. The Splash Brothers switch is also described as having a subtle resistance, making it suitable for shared spaces.
Overall, both switches have a neutral sound profile and provide a mild typing experience. However, if you prioritize soft tactility and a polished finish, the Meteor Orange switch would be the better choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter and snappier typing experience with a creamy sound, the Splash Brothers switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision depends on your personal preferences and typing style.
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