SP-Star Meteor Orange vs. Gateron Zero Degree 0°
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° offer two distinct experiences for users. The Meteor Orange switch is praised for its gentle tactility and neutral sound profile, providing a satisfying typing experience without being too loud. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° switch from Gateron boasts a revolutionary design that prioritizes silent typing, thanks to its self-padding and dual-rail structure which deliver smoothness, stability, and a quiet, soft feel. While the Meteor Orange switch may appeal to those who enjoy a tactile feedback, the Zero Degree 0° switch is ideal for those seeking a quieter 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
45g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 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
20mm extended spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Gateron Zero Degree 0°, we can see that they both utilize nylon for the bottom housing. This means that both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing, as nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound and create a rounder sound. However, since the top housing of the Meteor Orange is made of nylon while the Zero Degree 0° features a polycarbonate top housing, there will be a difference in the sound profile. The polycarbonate top housing of the Zero Degree 0° will create a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound compared to the duller and rounder sound produced by the nylon top housing of the Meteor Orange.
When it comes to aesthetics, the housing materials of the Meteor Orange and Zero Degree 0° also play a role. The Meteor Orange's clear nylon top housing allows for RGB lighting to shine through, creating a visually appealing look. On the other hand, the polycarbonate top housing of the Zero Degree 0° is also clear, making it ideal for showcasing RGB lighting. The difference in sound profile between the two switches can also be attributed to the choice of housing material, with the stiffer polycarbonate creating a more resonant sound compared to the softer nylon.
Overall, while both the Meteor Orange and Zero Degree 0° switches feature nylon bottom housings which contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile, the choice of top housing material sets them apart in terms of sound profile and aesthetics. The Meteor Orange's nylon top housing creates a duller and rounder sound, while the polycarbonate top housing on the Zero Degree 0° produces a sharper and crisper sound. Aesthetically, both switches utilize clear housing materials for RGB lighting, but the differing properties of nylon and polycarbonate still result in distinct visual and auditory experiences when typing on these switches.
Weight
The SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch differ in their actuation and bottom out forces. The Meteor Orange has a bottom out force of 57 grams, while the actuation force is not specified. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° has an actuation force of 45 grams, with an unknown bottom out force. This means that the Meteor Orange is lighter in terms of bottom out force, while the Zero Degree 0° requires less force to trigger a keystroke. Depending on personal preference, some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Zero Degree 0° for longer typing or gaming sessions, while others may prefer the heavier bottom out force of the Meteor Orange for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on individual typing preferences and needs.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch, it is evident that the Meteor Orange has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Zero Degree 0° has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The Meteor Orange offers a deeper keypress feel compared to the Zero Degree 0°, which may appeal to those who prefer a more pronounced keystroke. On the other hand, the Zero Degree 0° provides a slightly faster response time due to its shorter travel distance, making it a popular choice for gamers seeking quick and nimble key presses. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for keypress depth and typing style.
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 Gateron Zero Degree 0° has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Zero Degree 0° for $5.50.
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 offers a neutral and thocky typing experience, providing a satisfying sound with a moderate actuation force requirement. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch is known for its innovative design that absorbs sound and reduces noise, creating a silent typing experience with unparalleled smoothness and stability. Both switches offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences, with the Meteor Orange delivering a deep, rich sound and the Zero Degree 0° focusing on quiet operation.
In terms of feel, the Meteor Orange switch provides a gentle and polished typing experience, offering a mild tactile feedback and smooth key travel. This switch is ideal for those looking for a softer typing experience that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone in terms of sound and feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch excels in providing a soft, elastic feel that is both stable and smooth, thanks to its self-padding design and dual-rail structure. Both switches offer distinct tactile and smooth typing experiences that cater to users with different preferences.
Overall, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Meteor Orange switch provides a satisfying thocky sound and gentle typing experience, the Zero Degree 0° switch focuses on silent operation and smooth key travel. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches offer excellent options for different typing experiences. Whether you choose the Meteor Orange for its tactile feedback or the Zero Degree 0° for its silent operation, you can expect reliable performance and quality from both switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a gentle and satisfying tactile typing experience with a moderate sound profile and a mild feel, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. However, if you prioritize a silent typing experience with unparalleled smoothness, stability, and a soft, elastic feel, the Gateron Zero Degree 0° linear switch would be more suitable for your needs. Consider your preferences for tactility, sound, and feel when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that best suits your typing style and environment.
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