SP-Star Meteor White vs. KTT Rose
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor White and the KTT Rose switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the SP-Star Meteor White and the KTT Rose, both of which fall under the linear switch category. The Meteor White is renowned for its subdued and gentle nature, offering a light and easy push that results in a soft pitter-patter sound profile. With a type feel and sound profile that are both very soft, it falls into the categories of 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Rose switch is not just visually appealing, but it also offers a unique typing experience. Its use of progressive springs provides a substantial yet not heavy feel while typing, and produces the satisfying sound of bassy raindrops. Classified as 'Low-pitched', 'Neutral', 'Mild', and 'Polished', the Rose switch combines aesthetics with functionality. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities, so you can best decide on the most suitable switch for your needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
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
Standard
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
Progressive spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Meteor White and the KTT Rose switches differ in their composition and the resulting sound profiles. The Meteor White features a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound. The softer nature of nylon allows it to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. In contrast, the Rose switch utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, leading to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound. Aesthetically, the polycarbonate top housing is advantageous for switches incorporating RGB lighting due to its translucency.
Moving on to the bottom housings, both the Meteor White and the Rose switches employ nylon. Nylon is a classic switch housing material that elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. As nylon is a relatively softer plastic, it absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, in terms of sound production, the bottom housing material of both switches offers similar characteristics.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housings on the overall switch experience, they have distinct roles. The bottom housing primarily affects the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed down, while the top housing has a greater influence on the sound when the key is released. Therefore, the differences in housing materials between the switches will lead to variations in the sound and tactile feedback experienced during typing.
In summary, the housing materials of the Meteor White and the Rose switches differ in the top housing, wherein the Meteor White utilizes nylon and the Rose uses polycarbonate. This results in distinct sound profiles, with the Meteor White offering a deeper and fuller sound, and the Rose providing a sharper and crisper sound. However, both switches share the nylon housing material for the bottom, ensuring a similar deep and full sound when pressing the keys. Overall, these variations in housing materials contribute to the unique typing experience offered by each switch.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, it is important to note that the actuation force for both switches is unavailable. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Meteor White has a bottom out force of 57 grams, which can be considered medium-light, while the Rose has a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, which is categorized as medium-heavy.
Considering weight is an essential aspect for keyboard enthusiasts. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Meteor White more suitable for their needs as it allows for longer periods of comfortable typing, making it ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. In contrast, individuals who desire a more substantial and stronger tactile feel may lean towards the Rose switch, which has a heavier force. This heavier force can deliver a more satisfying keystroke sensation, providing a more substantial and distinct typing experience.
Although the exact actuation force for both switches is unknown, based on the provided information, it can be inferred that the overall typing experience between the two switches will differ. The Meteor White, with its medium-light bottom out force, is likely to provide a smoother and lighter keystroke, resulting in a more effortless typing experience. On the other hand, the Rose switch, with its medium-heavy bottom out force, will likely require a bit more force to trigger a keystroke, offering a stronger and more substantial push feel.
In conclusion, while the actuation force remains unknown for both switches, the Meteor White can be described as the lighter option with a medium-light bottom out force, while the Rose is the heavier option with a medium-heavy bottom out force. These differences in force specifications indicate that the typing experience will vary between the two switches, allowing individuals to choose according to their specific preferences and desired typing feel.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the KTT Rose linear switch, we find that both switches have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches will provide a similar experience when it comes to the distance you feel when pressing down on a key. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, you can expect similar results from both switches.
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 Rose comes in at $3.01 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
When it comes to sound, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch offers a gentle and subdued sound profile. The actuation force requirement and sound profile of this switch are both moderate, making it suitable for various purposes and users. It can produce a neutral sound with a soft "pitter-patter" sensation when pressed and released. On the other hand, the KTT Rose linear switch provides a low-pitched sound with a bass-heavy and mellow tone. Typing on these switches can evoke the sensation of typing under the rain, with a bassy sound resembling raindrops. Despite these differences, both switches fall under the neutral category, offering a moderate sound profile suitable for use at home or work. It's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, both the SP-Star Meteor White and KTT Rose switches offer a mild and gentle typing experience. This means that the switches provide a more approachable and comfortable typing sensation compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. The qualities of these switches fall in a safe middle-ground zone, making them suitable for various users. Additionally, both switches are described as polished, which means they have a smooth and refined finish. This results in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Whether it's the materials used or the factory lubing, these switches are designed to provide a pleasant feel during typing.
Based on the available information, the SP-Star Meteor White and KTT Rose switches differ in their sound profiles, with the Meteor White offering a more neutral and subdued sound, while the Rose provides a low-pitched, bass-heavy sound reminiscent of raindrops. However, both switches offer a mild and polished feel, ensuring a comfortable and approachable typing experience for users. If you prefer a gentler sound and feel, the Meteor White would be a suitable choice, while the Rose switch would be more appealing if you enjoy a unique, bassy sound while typing. Overall, both switches offer subjective qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a gentle and Subdued linear switch with a soft type feel and pitter-patter sound profile, the SP-Star Meteor White switch would be a great choice for you. With a bottom out force of 57 grams, it offers a medium-light actuation force that is easy to push. Additionally, the sound profile of the Meteor White is described as both neutral and thocky, providing a moderate sound suitable for various purposes.
On the other hand, if you desire a unique typing experience with a bassy raindrop sound, the KTT Rose linear switch would be an excellent option. With a bottom out force of 63.5 grams, the Rose switch offers a medium-heavy actuation force that provides a substantial but not heavy typing experience. The sound profile of the Rose switch is described as low-pitched and neutral, offering a more mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches.
In terms of feel, both the Meteor White and Rose switches offer a mild and polished typing experience. This means you can expect a gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel from either switch.
Ultimately, your choice between the SP-Star Meteor White and KTT Rose switches will depend on your personal preferences. If you prefer a softer and more subdued experience, the Meteor White switch would be the ideal option. On the other hand, if you desire a unique and bassy typing experience, the Rose switch would be the perfect choice for you. Consider your sound and feel preferences and select the switch that aligns with your needs.
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