SP-Star Meteor White vs. Outemu Tom
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor White and the Outemu Tom switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch to the Outemu Tom tactile switch, some key differences emerge. The Meteor White is lauded for its gentle and soft linear feel, making it easy to push and producing a subtle pitter-patter sound profile. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom lacks a specific standout characteristic but falls under the tactile switch category. While the Meteor White is described as 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', and 'Polished', the Tom does not have any specific descriptors. Choosing between these switches could depend on whether you prefer a smooth linear experience with a soft sound profile or a more tactile typing experience. 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
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
3.30 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the SP-Star Meteor White and the Outemu Tom, the main difference lies in the materials used for the top housing. The Meteor White features a nylon top housing, which is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. On the other hand, the Tom utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which generates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile because of its stiffer plastic composition. This variance in top housing material can significantly affect the overall typing experience and sound produced by the switches.
On the other hand, both the Meteor White and the Tom share the same nylon bottom housing material. This material is known for creating a deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to the impact of the nylon top housing. Since both switches utilize nylon for the bottom housing, users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel when it comes to bottom-out sounds and keypresses. This shared feature in the bottom housing of the switches showcases the importance of the bottom housing material in determining the overall typing experience.
Overall, the choice of housing materials in mechanical switches plays a crucial role in shaping the sound profile and tactile feedback experienced by users. While the Meteor White's nylon top housing creates a duller and rounder sound, the Tom's polycarbonate top housing offers a clearer and more resonant sound. However, both switches provide a consistent typing experience with their shared nylon bottom housing. Understanding the impact of different housing materials on switch performance can help users make informed decisions when customizing their mechanical keyboards to suit their preferences.
Weight
The SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch have different characteristics when it comes to actuation force and bottom out force. The Meteor White has a bottom out force of 57 grams, while the actuation force is not specified. In contrast, the Tom switch has an actuation force of 55 grams, with the bottom out force being unknown. The Meteor White is lighter in terms of bottom out force, making it more suitable for longer typing or gaming sessions where a lighter touch is preferred. On the other hand, the Tom switch may provide a more substantial typing experience with its heavier actuation force. Both switches have their advantages depending on individual preferences, but overall, the Meteor White is lighter while the Tom is heavier in terms of force requirements.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, we see that the Meteor White has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Tom has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. This means that the Meteor White has a longer travel distance than the Tom. The Meteor White's 4 mm travel distance is more traditional and may provide a more satisfying depth when pressing down on the key. On the other hand, the Tom's shorter 3.3 mm travel distance may be preferred by gamers looking for a faster response time. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference - whether you prioritize a longer, more traditional travel distance or a shorter, quicker response time. Both switches offer unique advantages, and selecting the one that best suits your typing or gaming style will ensure an optimal 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 Tom 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 with a moderate actuation force requirement, making it suitable for various uses. It also produces a gentle, pitter-patter sound when pressed, providing a soft and subtle auditory experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Tom tactile switch's sound qualities are unknown, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect.
Moving on to feel, the Meteor White switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, offering a gentle and smooth key travel. The switch's qualities fall in a safe, middle-ground zone, making it approachable to most users. Conversely, the feel of the Outemu Tom tactile switch is unspecified, preventing a direct comparison to be made in this regard.
Taking all available information into consideration, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch excels in providing a soft and subdued sound profile, coupled with a gentle and polished typing experience. While the sound and feel qualities of the Outemu Tom tactile switch remain unknown, it is clear that the Meteor White switch offers a unique combination of softness and smoothness, making it a suitable choice for those seeking a more subdued typing experience. Ultimately, when it comes to sound and feel, users can expect similar results from the Meteor White switch, providing a consistent and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
In summary, when choosing between the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Outemu Tom tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience and sound profile. If you prefer a gentle, soft linear switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a subdued sound profile, the Meteor White may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a tactile switch with an undefined bottom out force and a different typing experience, the Tom switch could be a better fit. Ultimately, it all comes down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable for you when typing. Choose the switch that aligns best with your typing style and preferences.
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