SP-Star Meteor Orange vs. Durock White Lotus
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Durock White Lotus switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch for your typing needs, two options that are worth considering are the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Durock White Lotus. The Meteor Orange switches are known for their exquisitely gentle nature, offering a soft and seductive tactility that provides a satisfying typing experience. With a neutral sound profile, these switches are categorized as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the White Lotus switches are designed with the discerning typist in mind. They offer a delicate tactility that strikes the perfect balance, making them ideal for work and extended typing sessions without overwhelming the user. Additionally, the White Lotus switches feature a removable light column, allowing for vibrant and luminous RGB lighting effects that can add a captivating glow to your keyboard setup. Categorized as 'Easy-to-press', 'Low-pitched', 'Mild', 'Neutral', and 'Subtle', they offer a tranquil typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make an informed decision on the best switch for your typing preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
46g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
56g
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
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated long spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Durock White Lotus switches exhibit some similarities and differences. Both switches feature a classic nylon housing, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This creates a duller and rounder sound when typing on both switches. However, the White Lotus also incorporates a modified PC and UPE Blend top housing, giving it a unique and premium feel. This material blend adds a distinct tactile experience to the switch, distinguishing it from the Meteor Orange.
Although the nylon bottom housing is the same for both switches, its impact on the overall switch performance differs depending on the other housing materials. The bottom housing predominantly affects the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed down. In this aspect, both the Meteor Orange and the White Lotus would offer similar results due to their shared nylon bottom housing. However, the top housing material plays a more significant role in the sound produced when a key is released. Thus, the modified PC and UPE Blend top housing of the White Lotus is likely to result in a slightly different sound profile compared to the Meteor Orange's nylon top housing.
In conclusion, while both the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Durock White Lotus switches utilize nylon housing materials, they differ in terms of their top housing. The White Lotus stands out with its modified PC and UPE Blend top housing, providing a premium feel and potentially generating a unique sound profile. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange offers a more traditional switch experience with its nylon top housing. However, the shared nylon bottom housing ensures that both switches create a deeper and fuller sound when typing, giving them some similarities in overall performance.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch, there are some similarities and differences to consider. The actuation force of the Meteor Orange is unavailable, whereas the White Lotus has an actuation force of 46 grams. In terms of bottom out force, the Meteor Orange requires 57 grams, while the White Lotus requires 56 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-light category when it comes to bottoming out force.
Weight is an important factor to take into account when choosing a switch. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience, the Meteor Orange might be the preferred option since its actuation force is unknown, indicating the possibility of being lighter. This lighter weight could be beneficial for those who need to type for extended periods, such as at work or during long gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who desire a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the White Lotus with its slightly heavier actuation force of 46 grams. This additional force can provide a stronger push, resulting in a more satisfying typing experience.
In conclusion, while the actuation force of the SP-Star Meteor Orange and Durock White Lotus differ, both switches share a similar medium-light bottom out force. Those seeking a lighter typing experience may find the Meteor Orange preferable, while individuals desiring a slightly stronger push may opt for the White Lotus. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and the specific typing needs of the user.
Travel distance
Both the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Durock White Lotus tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same distance of travel. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of the tactile feedback and overall typing experience with both of these switches.
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 White Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the White Lotus for $4.57.
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 has a neutral sound profile, providing a moderate sound when pressed and released. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus switch has a low-pitched sound, which offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. Both switches are described as having a moderate actuation force requirement, making them suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user. However, it is important to note that the overall sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as your choice of keyboard and keycaps.
In terms of feel, the SP-Star Meteor Orange switch provides a mild and polished typing experience. The mild characteristic offers a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users, while the polished finish ensures a smooth and refined typing feel with reduced friction. On the other hand, the Durock White Lotus switch offers an easy-to-press experience, requiring minimal force to activate. This light actuation force enhances typing efficiency and comfort, reducing finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the White Lotus switch is described as having a mild and subtle resistance, providing a gentle typing feel and a sound signature that is suitable for shared spaces.
Based on the available information, the SP-Star Meteor Orange and Durock White Lotus switches have slightly different subjective qualities. The Meteor Orange switch is known for its soft and seductive tactility, with a neutral sound profile and a mild and polished feel. It offers a gentle typing experience with a moderate actuation force requirement. On the other hand, the White Lotus switch is designed with the discerning typist in mind, offering a delicate tactility that strikes the perfect balance. It has a low-pitched sound, an easy-to-press feel, and a mild and subtle resistance. Both switches are suitable for work and extended typing sessions, providing satisfying typing experiences in their respective ways. If you are looking for a similar experience, either switch can provide comparable results based on your preferences and requirements.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-light tactile switch with a delicate tactility and a neutral sound profile, the SP-Star Meteor Orange switch would be a great choice. These switches offer a soft and seductive tactility, making them suitable for both beginners and advanced users, whether you are using them at home or work. The Meteor Orange switches also have a mild and polished feel, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction. Their sound profile is described as neutral and thocky, delivering a satisfying and deep sound when pressed.
On the other hand, if you prefer a low-pitched switch with vibrant RGB lighting effects, the Durock White Lotus switches would be the ideal option. These switches have a bottom out force of 56 grams, which is just slightly lighter than the Meteor Orange. They offer a delicate tactility that strikes a perfect balance, making them ideal for work and extended typing sessions without overwhelming the user. The White Lotus switches also feature a removable light column, allowing for captivating RGB lighting effects to enhance your keyboard setup. Their sound profile is described as low-pitched and neutral, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches.
Ultimately, your choice between the SP-Star Meteor Orange and Durock White Lotus switches will depend on your personal preferences for tactility, sound profile, and lighting effects. Whether you prioritize a soft and seductive tactility with a thocky sound or a delicate tactility with low-pitched sound and vibrant RGB lighting, both of these switches offer unique benefits for an enhanced typing experience. Consider your typing style, environment, and desired aesthetic to make the best decision for your mechanical keyboard setup.
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