SP-Star Meteor White vs. Outemu Cream Yellow
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor White and the Outemu Cream Yellow switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the SP-Star Meteor White and the Outemu Cream Yellow offer distinct experiences tailored to different preferences. The Meteor White is a linear switch, known for its gentle and subdued nature. With an easy actuation and soft sound profile, it falls under categories like 'Neutral' and 'Mild'. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow is a tactile switch, providing a different typing experience altogether. While the Meteor White boasts a thocky and polished feel, the Cream Yellow's characteristics remain unlisted. Each switch has its own strengths and appeal, making it important to consider your personal 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
45g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
In comparing the housing materials of the SP-Star Meteor White and the Outemu Cream Yellow, it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. Nylon is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches with nylon housings. Therefore, both the Meteor White and Cream Yellow switches offer similar sound characteristics due to their shared use of nylon in the housing materials.
However, despite both switches using nylon for their housing materials, differences may still arise between the Meteor White and Cream Yellow switches. If the top and bottom housings are different for a particular switch, the qualities of each housing material will be divided between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on the switch, the bottom housing material will have a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing material will influence the sound when releasing a key. This distinction could potentially lead to nuanced variations in sound and typing experience between the two switches.
Ultimately, the choice between the SP-Star Meteor White and the Outemu Cream Yellow may come down to personal preference and desired typing experience. While both switches share the use of nylon housing materials, the distribution of these materials between the top and bottom housings can result in subtle differences in sound and feel. Whether one prefers a slightly deeper bottom-out sound or a particular sound profile when releasing a key may influence the decision between these two switches.
Weight
The SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch have different actuation and bottom out forces. The Meteor White switch has a lighter actuation force of None grams compared to the Cream Yellow switch's actuation force of 45 grams. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Meteor White requires 57 grams, which is lighter than the 60 grams needed for the Cream Yellow switch. Both switches provide a similar medium typing experience, with the Cream Yellow offering a slightly heavier keypress. Those looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the Meteor White, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance may opt for the Cream Yellow. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The SP-Star Meteor White linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The Meteor White has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Cream Yellow. The 4 mm travel distance of the Meteor White is more traditional, providing a bit more depth when pressing down on the key. On the other hand, the Cream Yellow's 3.3 mm travel distance is slightly shallower, which may appeal to those looking for a quicker response time, such as gamers. Both switches offer different tactile experiences based on their travel distances, with the Meteor White offering a bit more depth and the Cream Yellow providing a slightly quicker response. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference whether you prefer a longer or shorter travel distance in your 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 Cream Yellow 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 is known for its neutral sound profile, which offers a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile suitable for most purposes. It also has a thocky sound, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch's sound profile is unknown, so it is difficult to compare directly in this aspect. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch is characterized by a mild typing experience, offering a gentle typing feel that is approachable to most users. It is also described as polished, providing smooth and refined key travel with reduced friction. Conversely, the feel of the Outemu Cream Yellow tactile switch is not mentioned, making it challenging to make a direct comparison in this aspect.
Overall, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch excels in providing a soft and gentle typing experience with a subdued sound profile. Its smooth key travel and moderate actuation force make it versatile for various use cases. While the tactile feel of the Outemu Cream Yellow switch remains unknown, there may be similarities in sound and feel qualities between the two switches. Ultimately, the choice between the SP-Star Meteor White and Outemu Cream Yellow switches will depend on personal preference and the specific typing experience desired by the user.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prefer a gentle and soft linear switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a pitter-patter sound profile, then the SP-Star Meteor White switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a tactile switch with a medium bottom out force and a neutral sound profile, then the Outemu Cream Yellow switch might be more suitable for you. Consider your preferences in terms of feel, sound, and bottom out force when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, the decision will come down to your personal typing preferences and needs.
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