SP-Star Meteor White vs. Gateron Quinn
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor White and the Gateron Quinn switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options that offer distinct typing experiences are the SP-Star Meteor White and the Gateron Quinn. The Meteor White is a linear switch that is best described as gentle and subdued. It provides an easy-to-press feel with a soft, pitter-patter sound profile. On the other hand, the Quinn is a tactile switch known for its unique combination of crisp tactility and deep, resonant sound profile. With specially designed nylon housings, it offers users a rich and immersive typing experience. While the Meteor White focuses on a smooth and subtle typing experience, the Quinn offers a precise and character-filled tactile bump. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision based on your preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
59g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
67g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Meteor White and the Gateron Quinn switches are both made of nylon, which is a classic switch housing material. Typing on switches that use nylon elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. This is because nylon is a relatively softer plastic and absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, in terms of sound profile, both switches will provide a similar experience.
However, where the switches differ is in the distribution of the housing materials. If the top and bottom housings are different for a given switch, the qualities each housing material brings will be split between the bottom and the top. The bottom housing has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will affect the sound when you let go of a key. This means that although both switches use nylon for their housing, the specific combination of top and bottom housings may result in subtle variations in the overall typing experience.
In summary, both the SP-Star Meteor White and the Gateron Quinn switches utilize nylon as their housing material, leading to a deeper and fuller sound profile. However, the distribution of the nylon housing between the top and bottom may influence the bottom-out sound and feel, as well as the sound produced when releasing a key. Therefore, while the switches will offer similar sound characteristics, slight differences in typing experience may be present depending on the specific housing configuration.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, one noticeable difference is their actuation and bottom out forces. The actuation force of the Meteor White switch is unavailable, while the Quinn switch requires 59 grams of force to trigger a keystroke. This suggests that the Quinn switch has a slightly lighter actuation force. Moving on to the bottom out force, the Meteor White switch has a force of 57 grams, which is medium-light, while the Quinn switch has a bottom out force of 67 grams, categorizing it as medium-heavy. Therefore, the Quinn switch requires a heavier force to fully press down compared to the Meteor White switch. In terms of weight preference, those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods may lean towards the Meteor White switch. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Quinn switch due to its higher actuation and bottom out forces. Overall, these differences in actuation and bottom out forces provide distinct options for keyboard users based on their personal preferences.
Travel distance
The travel distance of switches can greatly impact the typing experience, and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch offer distinct differences in this regard. The Meteor White boasts a travel distance of 4 mm, which falls within the realm of traditional switch travel distances. On the other hand, the Quinn offers a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. This makes the Quinn more suitable for those seeking a quicker keystroke response, particularly favored by gamers. However, if you value a deeper and more substantial feel to your keystrokes, the Meteor White's longer travel distance may be the preferred option. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on individual preference and the desired typing experience. Both options offer their own benefits, ensuring that regardless of choice, users will achieve satisfactory results.
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 Gateron Quinn has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Quinn for $5.50.
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
When it comes to sound, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch offers a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement. This switch produces a soft and gentle pitter-patter sound, which can be described as thocky. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch provides a deep and resonant sound profile. With each keystroke, users can expect a rich and immersive sound. The Quinn switch is described as having a bassy and clacky sound, with low-pitched and resonant characteristics. While the Meteor White and Quinn switches have different sound profiles, both can provide satisfying typing experiences.
In terms of feel, the SP-Star Meteor White switch offers a mild and polished typing experience. It provides a gentle and approachable typing experience with a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Similarly, the Gateron Quinn switch also has a polished feel. It offers a snappy and bouncy typing experience, with accented characteristics. The keys have a lively feel and rebound when pressed. Additionally, the Quinn switch is described as buttery and creamy, providing a seamless and effortless typing sensation. Both switches offer comfortable typing experiences, but with slightly different characteristics.
Considering all the available information, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch showcase distinctive subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Meteor White switch offers a soft and thocky sound, along with a mild and polished feel. On the other hand, the Quinn switch provides a deep and resonant sound, with a snappy and bouncy feel. However, it should be noted that the sound and feel of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps. Overall, whether you choose the Meteor White or Quinn switch, you can expect a satisfying and enjoyable typing experience.
Conclusion
To wrap up, if you are looking for a gentle and subtle typing experience with a soft sound, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch would be a great choice. With a medium-light bottom out force of 57 grams, this switch is easy to push and provides a pitter-patter sound profile. It is best suited for those who prefer a neutral switch and want a switch that can be used for both beginner and advanced typing, whether at home or at work.
On the other hand, if you are seeking a tactile switch with a deep and resonant sound profile, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch would be the better option. With a medium-heavy bottom out force of 67 grams, the Quinn switch offers a unique combination of crisp, light switch-like tactility and a rich sound profile. Each keystroke is met with a precise and clean tactile bump and an immersive auditory experience. This switch is especially suitable for users who enjoy a bassy, clacky, low-pitched, or resonant sound profile.
Ultimately, the choice between these two switches depends on your preferred typing experience and sound profile. Whether you prioritize a gentle and soft typing experience or a crisp and immersive tactile feedback, both the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch have their own unique features to offer.
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