SP-Star Meteor White vs. Cherry MX Red
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor White and the Cherry MX Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the SP-Star Meteor White and the Cherry MX Red mechanical keyboard switches, it's clear that both options offer unique characteristics to consider. The Meteor White is a linear switch that is easy to push and produces a gentle, pitter-patter sound profile, giving it a soft and subdued typing experience. On the other hand, the MX Red, also a linear switch, provides a slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile, offering a more robust typing experience with a satisfying auditory depth. While the Meteor White is best known for its soft and gentle feel, the MX Red stands out for its responsiveness and tactile feedback. 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
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Meteor White and the Cherry MX Red are both made of nylon, making them quite similar in terms of the material used. Nylon is known for its ability to produce a deep and full sound profile when typing on switches, as it is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound, which can provide a satisfying typing experience for many users. With both switches utilizing nylon for their housing materials, users can expect a comparable sound profile and overall typing feel.
While both the Meteor White and the MX Red switches use nylon for their top housing, the differences may lie in their design and construction. The top housing of a switch can have a significant impact on the sound when a key is released, as well as the overall feel of typing on the switch. With nylon being a softer plastic that absorbs sound well, users can expect a similar sound profile when using either switch. However, slight variations in the design of the top housing may lead to subtle differences in the typing experience between the two switches.
Similarly, the bottom housing of a switch can also play a crucial role in determining the sound and feel of typing. The qualities of the bottom housing will have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when a key is fully pressed. While both the Meteor White and the MX Red switches use nylon for their bottom housing, the specific design and construction of each switch may result in subtle differences in the typing experience. Overall, the use of nylon for both the top and bottom housings of these switches ensures a consistent and reliable typing experience for users who prefer a deeper and fuller sound profile.
Weight
The actuation force of the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch is unknown, while the Cherry MX Red linear switch has an actuation force of 45 grams. Both switches have a bottom out force, with the Meteor White requiring 57 grams and the MX Red having an unknown bottom out force. In terms of weight, the MX Red is the lighter option due to its lower actuation force compared to the Meteor White. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may benefit from the MX Red switch, as it allows for longer typing sessions without as much strain. However, for those seeking a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Meteor White may be the better choice with its heavier bottom out force. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, meaning that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of key travel. The 4 mm distance allows for a responsive and smooth keystroke, making both switches ideal for fast typists and gamers. In terms of travel distance, the Meteor White and MX Red switches offer the same level of comfort and efficiency, giving users a consistent and reliable typing experience.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Meteor White has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor White for $5.00.
The Cherry MX Red has an MSRP of $5.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Red for $4.00.
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 White linear switch is best described as a neutral switch, offering a moderate sound profile that is suitable for various typing intents and purposes. It produces a thocky sound when pressed, providing a deep and satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Red linear switch also produces a thocky sound, but with a low-pitched tone, resulting in a more bass-heavy and mellow sound compared to the Meteor White. Ultimately, the sound produced by each switch will also depend on the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch offers a mild typing experience, making it approachable to most users with its gentle feel. It is also described as polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. In contrast, the Cherry MX Red linear switch is noted for its textured feel, which may include noticeable friction when pressed. Some users may prefer this subtle texture, while others may prefer a smoother, friction-free typing experience offered by the Meteor White.
Taking all the available information into consideration, both the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Meteor White provides a soft and subdued typing experience with a gentle sound profile, the MX Red offers a slightly heftier feel and deeper sound profile for a robust typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preference for sound, feel, and the overall typing experience desired.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Cherry MX Red linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a softer, gentler feel with a pitter-patter sound profile, the Meteor White switch may be more suitable for you. It offers a smooth and muted typing experience that is easy on the fingers. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heftier feel and a deeper, more robust sound profile, the Cherry MX Red switch may be a better choice. It provides a classic typing experience with a satisfying auditory depth. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will come down to your personal preference for typing feel and sound.
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