SP-Star Meteor White vs. Outemu Ocean
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor White and the Outemu Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch to the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, a clear distinction can be seen in their characteristics. The Meteor White is praised for its gentle and subdued nature, providing a soft and smooth typing experience with a quiet sound profile. In contrast, the Ocean switch does not have any standout features listed but is known for its tactile feedback. While the Meteor White is categorized as neutral, mild, thocky, and polished, the Ocean switch does not fall into any specific category. When deciding between these two switches, one may be drawn to the Meteor White for its gentle feel and quiet operation, while the Ocean may appeal to those who prefer a tactile typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best determine which switch is right for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
Polycarbonate
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 main difference between the housing materials of the SP-Star Meteor White and the Outemu Ocean lies in the materials used for the top housing. The Meteor White features a nylon top housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Ocean comes with a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper and crisper sound profile because of its stiffer plastic composition. Aesthetically, the Ocean's clear polycarbonate top housing allows for RGB lighting, giving it an edge in terms of customization options compared to the Meteor White.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Meteor White and the Ocean utilize nylon material, offering a similar typing experience with a deeper and fuller sound profile. This shared housing material ensures consistency in the sound and feel of typing on these switches. However, the difference in top housing material still distinguishes the overall sound profile of each switch, with the Ocean's polycarbonate top housing providing a clearer and more resonant sound compared to the Meteor White's nylon top housing. While both switches offer a classic typing experience with nylon bottom housings, the choice between them may ultimately come down to personal preference in sound profile.
When it comes to the impact of the housing materials on the typing experience, the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. This means that for switches like the Meteor White and the Ocean, where the top and bottom housings differ, users will notice a split in the qualities each housing material brings to the overall typing experience. Whether one prefers the duller and rounder sound produced by the nylon housing or the sharper and crisper sound of the polycarbonate housing, there are unique attributes to appreciate in both the Meteor White and the Ocean switches.
Weight
The actuation force of the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch is unknown, while the Outemu Ocean tactile switch has an actuation force of 55 grams. However, the bottom out force of the Meteor White is 57 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Ocean, whose bottom out force is unknown. The Meteor White offers a medium-light typing experience, whereas the Ocean's force is not specified for bottoming out. For those who prefer lighter switches for extended typing sessions, the Meteor White may be the better choice. On the other hand, those seeking a more substantial typing feel may lean towards the Ocean, despite not knowing its exact bottom out force. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in that aspect. When comparing the two switches, it can be noted that they both offer a consistent travel distance, providing a satisfying typing experience. Users can expect similar results in terms of keypress feel and actuation depth with either switch. Both switches offer a smooth actuation without any tactile feedback, making them ideal for fast typists who prefer a linear feel. Overall, whether you choose the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch or the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, you can expect a similar travel distance and 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 Outemu Ocean 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 neutral sound profile that is moderate and suitable for a variety of users and environments. On the other hand, the Outemu Ocean tactile switch does not have any specific sound descriptors available, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison. However, it is important to note that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the Meteor White is characterized as providing a mild and polished typing experience, with a gentle and smooth key travel. This makes it approachable for most users and offers reduced friction for a sleek typing feel. On the contrary, there is no specific feel descriptor available for the Ocean tactile switch, so it is challenging to directly contrast the two.
Overall, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch is praised for its soft and subdued qualities in both sound and feel, making it a versatile option for a wide range of users. While the information available for the Outemu Ocean tactile switch is limited, it is important to consider personal preferences and the overall keyboard setup when choosing between these two switches. Ultimately, whether you opt for the Meteor White or the Ocean switch, you can expect a similar level of quality and performance.
Conclusion
In closing, when it comes to choosing between the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Outemu Ocean tactile switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a gentle and subdued linear switch with a soft sound profile and moderate actuation force, then the Meteor White may be the best choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a tactile switch with an unknown bottom out force and unknown sound profile, then the Ocean could be worth considering. Consider your typing needs and preferences carefully before making a decision between these two switches.
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