SP-Star Meteor White vs. Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor White and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that you may come across are the SP-Star Meteor White and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry. These switches offer different experiences, catering to different preferences and typing styles. The Meteor White is a linear switch, known for its gentle and effortless keystrokes. It provides a soft and pitter-patter sound profile, creating a subdued typing experience. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry is a tactile switch, designed for those who enjoy a sharp and pronounced typing feel. It offers a very sharp tactile bump and produces a lower-than-average sound frequency, deeper but not "thocky". While these general descriptions can give you a sense of what to expect, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for your needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
80g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
3.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Nylon
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
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 Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry switches provide different experiences in terms of sound and feel. The Meteor White utilizes a nylon top housing, which results in a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. This material absorbs more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the NovelKeys Blueberry features a POM top housing that produces a unique and pleasing sound. This sound profile leans towards the deeper side and is relatively more muted compared to nylon.
In terms of the bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon material. This choice enhances the sound profile by creating a deeper and fuller sound. The softness of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Similarly, the NovelKeys Blueberry utilizes a POM bottom housing, which contributes to a deep and muted sound profile. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, providing a tactile experience while typing.
While the housing materials between the top and bottom differ for the two switches, both have unique qualities. The bottom housing has a greater impact on the switch's bottom-out sound and feel, creating a tactile and satisfying experience while typing. On the other hand, the top housing plays a significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. Despite the differences in housing materials, both switches offer a distinct and enjoyable typing experience, allowing users to find a switch that suits their preferences.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch, we can see some notable differences. The Meteor White linear switch has an actuation force of unavailable grams, while the Blueberry tactile switch has an actuation force of 55 grams. The actuation force of the Meteor White switch is not specified, but it can be assumed to be either lighter or equal to that of the Blueberry switch.
Moving on to the bottom out force, the Meteor White linear switch has a bottom out force of 57 grams, which is considered medium-light. On the other hand, the Blueberry tactile switch has a bottom out force of 80 grams, making it a heavier choice.
Considering weight, some individuals prefer a lighter switch for longer typing sessions or extended gaming periods. For these individuals, the Meteor White switch would be a suitable option, as its actuation force and bottom out force are either lighter or comparable to the Blueberry switch.
However, there are also users who prefer a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience. In this case, the heavier actuation force and bottom out force of the Blueberry switch would be more appealing.
In summary, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch offers a lighter or comparable actuation force and a medium-light bottom out force. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch has a heavier actuation force and a heavy bottom out force. The choice between the two ultimately depends on personal preference and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
Both the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Both switches provide a consistent and satisfying keypress experience with an equal amount of travel distance.
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 Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the NovelKeys Blueberry for $6.25.
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 offers a soft and subdued sound profile. It's described as having a gentle, pitter-patter sound that is not too loud or sharp. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch produces a lower-than-average sound frequency. It is characterized as being slightly deeper than average but not "thocky." The Blueberry switch offers a more mellow and bass-heavy tone, while still maintaining a clean and sharp sound profile. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Regarding feel, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch provides a mild and approachable typing experience. It falls in the middle-ground zone, offering a gentle typing feel that most users will find comfortable. The switch is also described as polished, meaning it has a smooth and refined finish that results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch is characterized as snappy, providing a super-responsive typing experience. It has longer or dual-staged springs that make the typing feel more alive. Additionally, the Blueberry switch is described as buttery, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience without any noticeable friction. It provides a seamless and effortless typing sensation.
Taking all the available information into account, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch offer different subjective qualities. The Meteor White switch provides a soft and subdued sound profile with a gentle typing feel that is approachable and polished. On the other hand, the Blueberry switch has a lower-than-average sound frequency, offering a mellow and bass-heavy tone with a snappy and buttery typing feel. Both switches have their own unique characteristics and cater to different preferences. If you prefer a quieter and more gentle typing experience, the Meteor White switch would be a suitable choice. If you prefer a sharper tactile bump and a more responsive typing feel, the Blueberry switch would be a better fit. It's important to consider personal preferences and the desired typing experience when choosing between these switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a gentle and soft typing experience, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch would be a great choice. With its medium-light bottom out force of 57 grams, it is easy to push and offers a pitter-patter sound profile. The Meteor White switch is also described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for most intents and purposes. Its feel is mild and polished, providing a smooth and refined typing experience.
On the other hand, if you enjoy a sharp tactile bump and a lower-than-average sound frequency, the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch would be a better fit. With a heavy bottom out force of 80 grams, typing on these switches will provide a sharp and responsive feel. The Blueberry switches have a low-pitched sound profile, creating a bass-heavy and mellow tone. Additionally, the switches are described as snappy and invigorating, offering pronounced feedback and a reactive feel.
In closing, your decision between the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Kailh NovelKeys Blueberry tactile switch should come down to personal preference. If you prefer a gentle and soft typing experience, opt for the Meteor White switch. However, if you enjoy a sharp tactile bump and a lower-pitched sound profile, the Blueberry switch will be a better choice. Consider your typing style and preferences to determine which switch will provide the most satisfying experience for you.
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