SP-Star Meteor Orange vs. KTT Strawberry
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the KTT Strawberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing and contrasting mechanical keyboard switches, the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the KTT Strawberry offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Meteor Orange is renowned for its gentle nature, providing a soft and seductive tactility, accompanied by a neutral sound profile. Categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', and 'Polished', this switch offers a delightful typing experience with its exquisite feel. On the other hand, the Strawberry switch is best known for its delectable pink and clear housings, offering a smooth actuation and a comfortable feel. Categorized as 'Low-pitched', 'Frictionless', 'Silky', 'Buttery', and 'Polished', it grants a reliable performance while typing. Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on individual preferences and specific requirements. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your keyboard.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
43g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 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
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the KTT Strawberry differ significantly, with the former featuring a nylon top and bottom housing, while the latter utilizes a polycarbonate housing for both its top and bottom. The use of nylon in the Meteor Orange's housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Strawberry's polycarbonate housing offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its relatively stiffer plastic. In terms of aesthetics, the translucent quality of polycarbonate makes it ideal for housing switches with RGB lighting, while the nylon material in the Meteor Orange provides a more classic appearance.
Despite these differences, both housing materials also share some similarities. Typing on switches with either nylon or polycarbonate housing will result in a different sound profile compared to switches made with harder plastics. The sound produced by the Meteor Orange's nylon housing is duller and rounder, while the Strawberry's polycarbonate housing creates a more resonant and clear sound. Additionally, both materials are commonly used in switch housings, highlighting their effectiveness in enhancing sound quality.
When considering the impact of the housing materials on the overall switch experience, the qualities of each material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing, whether nylon or polycarbonate, will have a more significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when the key is pressed down. Conversely, the top housing material will affect the sound produced when the key is released. Thus, the choice of housing material can slightly alter the overall typing experience based on the specific qualities offered by each material.
In conclusion, the SP-Star Meteor Orange's nylon housing and the KTT Strawberry's polycarbonate housing offer distinct sound profiles and aesthetic appeal. While the nylon material creates a deeper and fuller sound profile and offers a classic look, the polycarbonate material produces a sharper and crisper sound and is ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, both materials enhance the overall typing experience, with the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing influencing the sound when a key is released. Ultimately, the decision between the two housing materials depends on personal preferences for sound, aesthetics, and additional features like RGB lighting.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch, one noticeable difference lies in their actuation forces. The actuation force of the Meteor Orange is currently unspecified, while the Strawberry has an actuation force of 43 grams. This indicates that the Strawberry switch requires a slightly lighter touch to trigger a keystroke compared to the Meteor Orange. In terms of bottom out force, the Meteor Orange requires 57 grams, classified as medium-light, whereas the Strawberry requires 62 grams, classified as medium. This means that the Strawberry switch has a slightly heavier bottom out force compared to the Meteor Orange.
Considering the impact of weight, individuals who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Strawberry switch, as its lower actuation force allows for more extended periods of typing without fatigue. This would be particularly suitable for those using keyboards in professional settings or engaging in lengthy gaming sessions. Conversely, individuals seeking a stronger tactile feedback and more substantial typing experience may find the heavier bottom out force of the Meteor Orange more satisfying. It is important to note that if the actuation force of the Meteor Orange is similar to the Strawberry, users can expect a comparable typing experience in terms of force required. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of a switch refers to the distance it travels from the top to the bottom when pressed down. In the case of the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, it has a travel distance of 4 mm. Similarly, the KTT Strawberry linear switch also has a travel distance of 4 mm. Therefore, both switches have the same travel distance, resulting in a similar tactile experience for users when pressing down on the keys. It can be concluded that there is no significant difference in the travel distance between the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the KTT Strawberry linear switch.
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 KTT Strawberry comes in at $4.91 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
In terms of sound, the SP-Star Meteor Orange switch is known for its neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound when pressed and released. It is suitable for most intents and 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 KTT Strawberry switch produces a low-pitched sound. It has a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. The sound of each switch can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard board and keycaps chosen. However, if you are looking for a similar sound experience, both switches offer satisfying sound profiles that can be well-received.
When it comes to feel, the SP-Star Meteor Orange switch offers a mild and polished typing experience. The switch is designed to provide a more gentle typing experience with a safe middle-ground zone. It has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. This can enhance the overall typing feel and make it sleeker. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry switch offers a frictionless, silky, and buttery typing experience. It provides an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience, minimizing any sense of resistance or friction when pressing the keys. It offers a fluid and uniform typing sensation. Both switches provide a comfortable and smooth typing experience, but the KTT Strawberry switch might offer a slightly smoother and more frictionless feel.
Taking all available information into account, it can be concluded that the SP-Star Meteor Orange switch provides a soft and seductive tactility with a neutral sound profile. It offers a mild and polished typing experience, which can be approachable to most users. On the other hand, the KTT Strawberry switch offers smooth actuation, a comfortable feel, and reliable performance. It produces a low-pitched sound and provides a frictionless, silky, and buttery typing experience. Both switches have their own unique qualities and can deliver satisfying results depending on personal preferences. Overall, whether you choose the SP-Star Meteor Orange or the KTT Strawberry switch, you can expect a high-quality mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a gentle and soft typing experience with a moderate actuation force, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch would be a great choice for you. These switches offer a neutral sound profile that is suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use them at home or in the office. The Meteor Orange switches also provide a mild and polished feel, with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, if you prefer a smooth and effortless typing experience with a slightly higher actuation force, the KTT Strawberry linear switch would be an excellent option. These switches have an attractive pink and clear housing and are known for their comfortable feel and reliable performance. The Strawberry switches produce a low-pitched and mellow tone, and offer a frictionless, silky, and buttery typing sensation. Ultimately, your choice between the Meteor Orange and Strawberry switches will depend on your personal preferences for sound, feel, and actuation force.
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