SP-Star Meteor White vs. Outemu Cream Blue
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor White and the Outemu Cream Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to comparing and contrasting mechanical keyboard switches, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch offer unique performance characteristics. The Meteor White is favored for its gentle linear feel, easy actuation, and soft pitter-patter sound profile. This switch falls under the categories of 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Cream Blue switch does not have a specific descriptor and falls into its own category. Those who prefer a clicky switch with audible feedback might lean towards the Cream Blue, while individuals seeking a softer touch and quieter typing experience may opt for the Meteor White. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Partial box
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
Both the SP-Star Meteor White and the Outemu Cream Blue utilize nylon as the material for both their top and bottom housings. This choice of material contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on these switches. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This similarity in housing material ensures that both switches offer a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
Despite both switches using nylon for their housing material, there may still be subtle differences in how the top and bottom housings impact the overall typing experience. The bottom housing of a switch often plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing can affect the sound when a key is released. These differences may manifest in nuances in sound and tactile feedback, potentially leading to a slightly varied typing experience between the SP-Star Meteor White and the Outemu Cream Blue.
Overall, the choice to use nylon as the housing material for both the SP-Star Meteor White and the Outemu Cream Blue ensures a consistent sound profile and typing feel across both switches. The similarities in housing material highlight the importance of material selection in determining the overall typing experience of a switch. Whether it is the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound or the top housing influencing the sound upon key release, the use of nylon in both switches guarantees a deep and full sound profile for typists to enjoy.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch differ in weight. The Meteor White has a lighter actuation force of None grams compared to the Cream Blue's 50 grams, making it easier to trigger keystrokes. However, the Meteor White has a bottom out force of 57 grams, which is still considered medium-light, while the Cream Blue has a heavier bottom out force of 65 grams, which is medium-heavy. Users looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the Meteor White for longer sessions, while those who prefer a more substantial push feel may opt for the Cream Blue. Both switches provide different levels of force, allowing users to choose based on their preference for typing experience.
Travel distance
The SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing and contrasting their travel distance, both switches offer the same tactile feedback and actuation point, resulting in a similar typing experience for users. Hence, whether you choose the Meteor White or Cream Blue switch, you can expect to have a consistent typing feel with the same 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 Outemu Cream Blue 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
The SP-Star Meteor White linear switch offers a soft and gentle sound profile, described as pitter-patter, making it suitable for a quiet typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch's sound characteristics are not known, so it's difficult to compare in terms of sound.
Regarding feel, the Meteor White switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, with smooth key travel and reduced friction. This makes it comfortable for extended typing sessions. On the other hand, the feel of the Cream Blue switch is not specified, so it's unclear how it compares in terms of typing comfort and smoothness.
Overall, if you are looking for a linear switch with a soft sound profile and gentle typing experience, the SP-Star Meteor White switch would be a suitable choice. However, if you are interested in a clicky switch with unknown sound and feel characteristics, the Outemu Cream Blue switch may also be worth considering for a potentially different typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and overall typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Outemu Cream Blue clicky switch, you should consider your preference for bottom out force and sound profile. If you prefer a lighter switch with a gentle linear feel and a soft sound profile, the Meteor White is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a clicky feel, the Cream Blue may be more appealing to you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the specific use case for the keyboard.
Mentioned in this article
