SP-Star Meteor Orange vs. HMX Swift
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the HMX Swift switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the HMX Swift. The Meteor Orange switch is a tactile switch, known for its gentle tactility and neutral sound profile. On the other hand, the Swift is a linear switch with a deeper sound profile and a silky smoothness that compliments its delicate 42g actuation force. While the Meteor Orange offers a soft and seductive typing experience, the Swift stands out for its unique sound signature and ease of pressing. 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
42g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.90 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm extended spring
Housing materials
Both the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the HMX Swift utilize nylon as the material for both their top and bottom housing. This material is known for its ability to create a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on switches. The relatively softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound than harder plastic materials, resulting in a duller and rounder sound overall. This means that both switches will provide a satisfying auditory experience for users, with a sound that is more muffled and less sharp compared to switches made from harder plastics.
While both switches share the same nylon material for their housing, the impact of this material may vary depending on whether it is used in the top or bottom housing of the switch. The qualities of the housing material will be split between the top and the bottom of the switch, affecting both the bottom-out sound and feel, as well as the sound when releasing a key. This could potentially result in a nuanced typing experience that combines the qualities of both the top and bottom housing materials to create a unique sound profile for each switch.
Overall, the use of nylon housing in both the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the HMX Swift switches ensures a consistent typing experience that emphasizes a deeper and fuller sound profile. While the specific nuances of the sound and feel may differ slightly between the two switches due to potential variations in how the housing material is utilized, users can expect a similar level of sound quality and overall satisfaction when typing on either switch. The classic nature of nylon as a switch housing material ensures a reliable and enjoyable typing experience for users of both switches.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, it is evident that they differ in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Meteor Orange has a bottom out force of 57 grams, which is medium-light, while the Swift has a lower bottom out force of 50 grams, making it lighter. The actuation force of the Swift is 42 grams, while the actuation force of the Meteor Orange is None grams, which is unknown. Despite the variance in force requirements, both switches offer a different typing experience. Some may prefer the lighter touch of the Swift for extended typing sessions, while others may favor the slightly heavier feel of the Meteor Orange for more substantial keystrokes. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch is 4 mm, while the HMX Swift linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.9 mm. Both switches fall within the range of traditional travel distances, with 4 mm being the most common. Gamers may prefer the Swift switch for its slightly shorter travel distance, as it can lead to faster response times during gameplay. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial key press, the Meteor Orange switch may be the preferable option due to its longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance and key feel.
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 HMX Swift has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Swift for $2.99.
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 is known for its neutral sound profile, which means it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile suitable for various purposes. On the other hand, the HMX Swift linear switch is described as having a clacky sound profile, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. The differences in sound between these two switches can affect the overall typing experience based on personal preferences and setups such as keyboard and keycaps choices.
In terms of feel, the Meteor Orange switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, with a gentle tactile feel that appeals to a wide range of users. The switch is smooth and refined, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the HMX Swift switch is known for being easy-to-press, feathery, bouncy, and creamy. It provides a light actuation force, reduced finger fatigue, and a spring-like feedback sensation, offering a comfortable and responsive typing feel. The differences in feel between these two switches highlight their unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences and needs.
Considering the sound and feel qualities of the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the HMX Swift linear switch, users can expect distinct experiences when typing on each switch. The Meteor Orange offers a neutral and gentle typing experience with a soft tactility and polished feel, while the Swift provides a clacky sound profile and easy-to-press, feathery feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing performance, users can choose between these switches to enhance their overall mechanical keyboard experience. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that can cater to a variety of typing styles and preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience regardless of the choice made.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a gentle and smooth typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch would be an excellent choice for you. These switches offer a neutral sound profile and a mild feel, making them suitable for a wide range of users and purposes. On the other hand, if you prefer a light linear switch with a deeper sound profile and easy-to-press keys, the HMX Swift linear switch would be more ideal for you. The Swifts provide a feathery and bouncy feel, perfect for reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Ultimately, your choice between the Meteor Orange and Swift switches will depend on your preference for tactility, sound profile, and typing feel.
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