SP-Star Meteor White vs. Outemu Brown
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor White and the Outemu Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the SP-Star Meteor White and the Outemu Brown mechanical keyboard switches, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference in typing experience. The Meteor White is a linear switch, offering a smooth and easy keypress with a subtle sound profile, making it a great choice for those who prefer a quieter typing experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown is a tactile switch, providing a slight bump in each keypress, giving typists a tactile feedback that some may find more satisfying. Both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. 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
53g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Meteor White and the Outemu Brown switches offer contrasting sound profiles due to their differences in material composition. The Meteor White's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound profile, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Brown's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, as polycarbonate is a stiffer plastic that leads to a more clear and resonant sound. This contrast in sound profile can greatly impact the typing experience for users based on their preference for sound feedback.
While the Meteor White and Outemu Brown switches both feature nylon bottom housings, they still offer subtle differences in sound profile. Both switches elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile due to nylon's softer plastic composition that absorbs more sound. This similarity in bottom housing material suggests that typing on both switches will provide a similar tactile feedback and sound experience, making them suitable options for those who prefer a duller and rounder sound profile. However, the differences in their top housing materials will still play a significant role in shaping the overall sound profile of each switch.
The split between top and bottom housing materials in switches can impact how sound is produced during typing. The bottom housing material, which has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, will determine the overall depth and resonance of the sound when a key is pressed. On the other hand, the top housing material will influence the sound produced when a key is released, providing users with a clear and distinct sound profile. Understanding the impact of different housing materials on the sound profile of switches can help users choose the right switch based on their preference for sound feedback and typing experience.
Weight
The SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch have distinct differences in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The Meteor White has a bottom out force of 57 grams and an unknown actuation force, while the Brown has a bottom out force of 65 grams and an actuation force of 53 grams. The Meteor White is lighter in terms of bottom out force, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time. On the other hand, the Brown switch is heavier overall, providing a more substantial typing feel for those who prefer a stronger push. Both switches offer a different typing experience due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose based on their personal preferences for typing comfort and feedback.
Travel distance
The SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key using either switch, you will experience the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, you can expect similar results whether you are using the SP-Star Meteor White or the Outemu Brown switch.
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 Outemu Brown comes in at $3.10 per 10 switches.
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 gentle and subdued sound profile, with a soft pitter-patter noise when pressed. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown tactile switch's sound profile is unknown, so it is difficult to compare. Both switches offer a neutral actuation force requirement, making them suitable for various purposes. However, the Meteor White also has a thocky sound profile, producing a deep and satisfying sound when pressed and released. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch provides a mild and polished typing experience. The switch offers a gentle typing feel, making it approachable to most users, while the polished finish ensures a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Unfortunately, information on the feel of the Outemu Brown tactile switch is unavailable, making it challenging to compare the two switches directly.
Overall, both the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch have their unique characteristics. While the Meteor White offers a gentle and subdued sound profile with a mild and polished feel, the specifics of the Brown switch remain unknown. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, you may find similar results with both switches, but it is essential to consider all available information before making a decision.
Conclusion
In summary, when deciding between the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch, you should choose the Meteor White if you prefer a light and gentle linear switch with a soft sound profile that is easy to push. This switch is suitable for most users and purposes, offering a neutral or thocky sound and a mild and polished typing experience. On the other hand, you should choose the Outemu Brown if you prefer a slightly heavier tactile switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your personal preference for switch type, sound profile, and typing feel. Consider these factors when selecting the switch that best suits your needs and preferences.
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