SP-Star Meteor White vs. KTT Phalaenopsis
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor White and the KTT Phalaenopsis switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to explore are the SP-Star Meteor White and the KTT Phalaenopsis. The Meteor White is a linear switch that is best described as gentle and subdued. With a soft type feel and a pitter-patter sound profile, this switch is easy to push and offers a relaxed typing experience. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis is a tactile switch that boasts a beautiful translucent design. With a light actuation force of 37g, it minimizes finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions. The 50g tactile force provides a satisfying and discernible tactile bump, adding a delightful element to each keystroke. The Phalaenopsis is often characterized as having a bassy sound and a stepped thocky feel. While these general pointers can give you an initial idea of what each switch offers, it's important to delve deeper into their intricacies to determine the best fit for your specific preferences and needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
37g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Meteor White and the KTT Phalaenopsis differ significantly, affecting the sound profile and aesthetic appeal of the switches. The Meteor White utilizes nylon for both the top and bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, creating a duller and rounder sound. In contrast, the Phalaenopsis features polycarbonate for both the top and bottom housing, producing a sharper and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate contributes to a clearer and more resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting.
While the materials used in the SP-Star Meteor White and the KTT Phalaenopsis differ for their top and bottom housing, the qualities of each material are distributed accordingly. When pressing down on a switch, the bottom housing's characteristics will be felt, influencing the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, the top housing will primarily affect the sound when releasing a key. Therefore, the combination of the top and bottom housing materials determines the overall sound profile and typing experience of the switches.
In terms of similarities, both the Meteor White and Phalaenopsis utilize classic switch housing materials. Nylon, used in the Meteor White, elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature and higher sound absorption. Similarly, polycarbonate, found in the Phalaenopsis, creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound profile attributed to its stiffness and better sound resonance. Therefore, both switches offer satisfying sound profiles, catering to different preferences and typing styles. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the top housing of the Phalaenopsis allows for enhanced aesthetics when coupled with RGB lighting, similar to the clear appearance of the Meteor White's nylon top housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch, we can explore their differences. The Meteor White's actuation force is unavailable, making it difficult to directly compare with the Phalaenopsis's actuation force of 37 grams, which is relatively light. However, the Meteor White's bottom out force is 57 grams, which is medium-light, while the Phalaenopsis has a bottom out force of 50 grams, making it even lighter. In terms of weight, the Phalaenopsis is the lighter option with both its actuation force and bottom out force. Some users may prefer a lighter switch like the Phalaenopsis as it allows for longer typing periods, making it suitable for work or extended gaming sessions. In contrast, those seeking a more substantial typing experience might favor the Meteor White's slightly heavier bottom out force. Overall, while both switches offer different force requirements, users can achieve similar results depending on their preferences for lighter or heavier keystrokes.
Travel distance
Both the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch have an identical travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. Whether you prefer a linear switch or a tactile switch, both options will provide a consistent and satisfying key press 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 KTT Phalaenopsis has an MSRP of $4.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Phalaenopsis for $4.15.
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 is best known for its soft and gentle qualities. It has an easy and smooth actuation, making it effortless to press the keys. The sound profile of this switch can be described as a gentle and pitter-patter sound. It is considered neutral in terms of sound, with a moderate actuation force requirement. Overall, the Meteor White offers a subdued and soft typing experience both in sound and feel.
On the other hand, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch is known for its light actuation force of 37g, which makes typing effortless and minimizes finger fatigue during prolonged typing sessions. It provides a satisfying and discernible tactile bump with a 50g force, ensuring each keystroke is a delightful experience. In terms of sound, the Phalaenopsis is characterized as bassy and thocky, offering a rich and deep sound profile during key presses.
Comparing the subjective qualities of sound, the Meteor White has a neutral and thocky sound, providing a moderate and satisfying sound experience. Meanwhile, the Phalaenopsis offers a bassy and thocky sound, creating a deeper and richer sound profile. Both switches deliver an enjoyable sound experience, but with different characteristics.
When it comes to feel, the Meteor White offers a mild and polished typing experience. It has a gentle and approachable feel, making it suitable for most users. The polished finish of this switch results in reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis is a stepped tactile switch, providing a more mild tactile feedback with some pre-travel and/or post-travel sensation.
Taking all the available information into consideration, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch have different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Meteor White offers a soft and gentle typing experience with a neutral and thocky sound profile. On the other hand, the Phalaenopsis provides a satisfying and discernible tactile bump with a bassy and thocky sound. Both switches have their unique characteristics, allowing users to choose the one that suits their preferences. Depending on the specific board and keycaps used, you can achieve similar results with either switch.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are looking for a gentle and soft typing experience with a moderate actuation force, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch would be a great choice. With its medium-light bottom out force of 57 grams, this switch is easy to push and offers a gentle, pitter-patter sound profile. The Meteor White switch is also described as having a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. The sound profile of the Meteor White switch can be considered either neutral or thocky, providing a moderate and satisfying sound when pressed.
On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter actuation force and enjoy a discernible tactile bump, the KTT Phalaenopsis tactile switch would be the better option. With a bottom out force of 50 grams, the Phalaenopsis switch offers effortless typing and minimizes finger fatigue even during prolonged typing sessions. The 50g tactile force provides a satisfying and delightful keystroke experience. In terms of sound, the Phalaenopsis switch offers a bassy and thocky sound profile, which is characterized by a deep and rich sound during key presses.
Ultimately, the decision between the SP-Star Meteor White and the KTT Phalaenopsis switch will depend on your personal preferences for typing experience and sound profile.
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