SP-Star Meteor Orange vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Durock T1. The Meteor Orange switches are renowned for their exquisite gentleness, offering a soft and seductive tactility that is a pleasure to type on. With a neutral sound profile, these switches provide a calm and balanced typing experience. On the other hand, the T1 switch is celebrated for its exceptional comfort. Featuring a medium bump when pressed, it offers a satisfying tactile feedback that mimics the sensation of raindrops on a window. With a low-pitched and accented sound, the T1 switch adds a unique touch to the typing experience. However, let's dive deeper beyond these generalities to help you make an informed decision on the best switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Nylon
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 Durock T1 switches differ in terms of their impact on sound profiles. The Meteor Orange's nylon top housing is known for eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer and more sound-absorbent nature of nylon. On the other hand, the T1's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile due to the stiffer nature of polycarbonate. While the Meteor Orange provides a duller and rounder sound experience, the T1 offers a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the T1's polycarbonate housing is particularly useful for those who plan to use RGB lighting due to its translucency, offering an aesthetic advantage in terms of visual effects.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, both switches utilize nylon, which brings about a similar sound profile. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housing creates a deeper and fuller sound due to the softness and sound-absorbing qualities of nylon. Therefore, users can expect a similar sound experience when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel of both the Meteor Orange and the T1 switches.
It is important to note that when a switch has different top and bottom housings, the characteristics brought by each housing material are divided between the top and bottom of the switch. As a result, when pressing down on a switch, the qualities of the bottom housing will influence the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will have a greater impact on the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, users can expect a nuanced auditory experience with variations in sound profiles based on the specific combination of top and bottom housings used in each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, it is important to consider their weight. Unfortunately, the exact actuation force of both switches is unavailable. However, we can determine that the Meteor Orange has a bottom out force of 57 grams, which is considered medium-light. On the other hand, the T1 has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is classified as medium-heavy.
For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Meteor Orange may be the better option, as it offers a lower bottom out force. The lighter weight allows for longer typing sessions without causing excessive fatigue, making it suitable for work or prolonged gaming sessions. However, if a stronger and more substantial push feel is desired for a more tactile typing experience, the T1 with its heavier bottom out force would be a more suitable choice.
Ultimately, the actuation force of both switches remains unknown, but since the bottom out force of the Meteor Orange is lighter than that of the T1, it is likely that the actuation force of the Meteor Orange will also be lighter. Therefore, for individuals seeking similar results in terms of typing experience and force requirements, the Meteor Orange may offer somewhat comparable actuation force to the T1, albeit on the lighter side.
Travel distance
Both the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. The travel distance refers to the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom when pressed, and in both cases, it measures 4 mm. Therefore, using either of these switches will provide similar results in terms of the distance you feel when pressing down on a key. Their travel distances are identical, ensuring a consistent typing experience for users.
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 Durock T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
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 Meteor Orange switch is best known for its soft and seductive tactility and neutral sound profile. It is described as having a moderate sound profile that is suitable for most intents and purposes. The T1 switch, on the other hand, is super comfortable to type on with a medium bump when pressing down. Its sound reminds one of rain falling on the window and has a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Both switches have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for most environments.
In terms of feel, the Meteor Orange switch offers a more gentle typing experience. It falls into the category of mild switches, providing a middle-ground zone that is approachable to most users. Additionally, it is described as polished, which means it has a smooth and refined finish resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The T1 switch, on the other hand, is a stepped switch, which means it feels like it has two stages of tactility. It is not as pronounced as hypertactile switches, but provides a medium amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle. It is also described as accented, meaning it has a prominent amount of tactility without being scratchy. Like the Meteor Orange, the T1 switch is also polished, offering reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the SP-Star Meteor Orange and Durock T1 switches have their own unique qualities when it comes to sound and feel. The Meteor Orange has a soft and seductive tactility with a neutral sound profile, while the T1 is super comfortable to type on with a medium bump and rain-like sound. Both switches offer a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. While the Meteor Orange is more on the gentle side, the T1 falls into the stepped and accented tactile category. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on personal preference and the specific typing experience desired. However, if you enjoy a soft and gentle typing experience with a neutral sound profile, both switches can provide similar results in terms of overall satisfaction.
Conclusion
To summarize, if you are looking for a gentle and soft tactile switch with a medium-light bottom out force, the SP-Star Meteor Orange switch would be a great choice for you. These switches provide a seductive tactility and have a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for both beginners and advanced users in any setting. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and a comfortable typing experience with a rain-like sound, the Durock T1 switch would be more suitable. These switches offer a medium bump and a low-pitched sound, which creates a bass-heavy and mellow tone. Additionally, the T1 switches feature accented tactility and a polished finish, resulting in smooth key travel and reduced friction. Ultimately, the decision between the SP-Star Meteor Orange and Durock T1 switches will depend on your preference for bottom out force, tactility, sound, and overall typing experience.
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