SP-Star Meteor White vs. Durock T1
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor White and the Durock T1 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the SP-Star Meteor White, a linear switch, and the Durock T1, a tactile switch. The Meteor White is best known for its gentle linear feel, making it easy to push and offering a soft typing experience. It emits a gentle, pitter-patter sound profile, adding to its overall subdued nature. In contrast, the T1 is highly regarded for its exceptional typing comfort. With a medium bump when pressing down, it provides tactile feedback that resembles rain falling on a window. While both switches share attributes such as being polished and having a neutral feel, they differ in terms of sound and typing experience. However, let's dive in deeper beyond these generalities so you can make the best decision in choosing the ideal switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
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
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Meteor White and the Durock T1 switches have distinct differences. The Meteor White features a nylon top housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon. This results in a duller and rounder sound when typing. On the other hand, the T1's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffer nature of polycarbonate contributes to a more clear and resonant sound, especially when paired with RGB lighting for an aesthetically pleasing experience.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Meteor White and the T1 use nylon as the material. This classic switch housing material delivers a deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to the nylon top housing, as the softer plastic absorbs more sound than harder plastics. As a result, both switches offer a dull and round sound when typing.
When it comes to the overall sound and feel of the switches, the combination of the top and bottom housings plays a crucial role. If the top and bottom housings differ, the impact on the sound and feel will be split between them. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when you press down on the switch, while the top housing has more influence on the sound when you release a key. Both the Meteor White and the T1 provide their own unique characteristics based on the materials used in their top and bottom housings.
In summary, the SP-Star Meteor White and the Durock T1 switches diverge in terms of their housing materials. The Meteor White utilizes a nylon top housing for a deeper and fuller sound, whereas the T1 employs a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper and crisper sound, especially when paired with RGB lighting. However, both switches share a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preferences for sound and aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force between the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, we find some notable differences. The actuation force of both switches is unavailable, meaning that the exact force required to trigger a keystroke is unknown. However, the bottom out force of the Meteor White is 57 grams, categorizing it as medium-light. In contrast, the bottom out force of the T1 is 67 grams, making it medium-heavy. Therefore, the T1 requires slightly more force to press all the way down compared to the Meteor White.
Considering the weight of these switches, individuals may have different preferences. Some might favor a lighter switch like the Meteor White, as it allows for longer typing periods without inducing fatigue. This lighter weight is particularly beneficial for those using a keyboard for work or engaging in prolonged gaming sessions. On the other hand, there are users who desire a more substantial typing experience and prefer a stronger push feel. For them, the T1 with its heavier bottom out force may be the preferred choice.
While we don't have specific information regarding the actuation forces, it is important to note that having similar actuation forces can also lead to comparable results in typing experiences. Therefore, if the actuation forces of both switches were the same, users could expect similar tactile feedback and responsiveness from both the Meteor White and T1 switches. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on individual preferences and the desired typing experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, it is interesting to note that both switches have an equal travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, the distance you would feel is the same. Therefore, in terms of travel distance, both switches would provide similar results. It is worth mentioning that this distance is the standard for many mechanical switches, ensuring a comfortable typing experience for users. Thus, while the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch may offer different typing experiences due to their linear and tactile characteristics, respectively, their travel distance remains the same.
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 Durock T1 has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the T1 for $4.90.
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. When it comes to sound, it has a pitter-patter sound profile that is subdued and easy on the ears. This switch falls into the neutral category in terms of sound, offering a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile. It doesn't produce a deep thocky sound, but rather a softer and more gentle sound when pressed and released. Keep in mind that the sound of the switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
In terms of feel, the Meteor White linear switch provides a mild typing experience. It falls into the mild category of mechanical keyboard switches, offering a more gentle typing feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Its qualities are approachable to most people, as it stands in a safe middle-ground zone. Additionally, it has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. This polished finish can be attributed to the materials used in the switch or possible factory lubrication.
On the other hand, the Durock T1 tactile switch offers a different sound and feel experience. The sound of this switch is low-pitched, providing a more bass-heavy and mellow tone compared to higher-pitched switches. It is also considered to be in the neutral category, offering a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile suitable for various purposes. The sound of the T1 switch reminds some users of rain falling on a window, giving it a soothing quality.
In terms of feel, the T1 tactile switch is described as stepped and accented. Stepped switches have two stages in their tactile feedback, with some pre-travel and/or post-travel. This means that the tactile bump is less pronounced compared to hypersensitive switches. It offers a medium amount of tactility that is neither overwhelming nor subtle, referred to as an accented switch. Similar to the Meteor White, the T1 switch also has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
In conclusion, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities. The Meteor White has a gentle and soft sound profile, providing a subdued pitter-patter sound. Its feel is mild and polished, offering a safe and approachable typing experience. On the other hand, the T1 switch has a low-pitched sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window. Its feel is stepped and accented, providing a medium amount of tactile feedback. While these two switches have different characteristics, they both fall into the neutral category in terms of sound and offer a smooth typing experience due to their polished finishes. Depending on personal preference, both switches can provide satisfying results.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Durock T1 tactile switch, there are a few factors to consider. If you prefer a softer and more gentle typing experience with a medium-light bottom out force, the Meteor White may be the better choice for you. It offers a pitter-patter sound profile and is easy to push, providing a subdued and soft overall feel. On the other hand, if you value comfort and enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force, the T1 switch might be more suitable. It offers a medium bump when pressing down and produces a sound reminiscent of rain falling on a window. Both switches fall under the neutral sound descriptor, making them suitable for various purposes, whether at home or work. The Meteor White is best described as having a mild and polished feel, with reduced friction and smooth key travel, while the T1 has a stepped and accented feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and sound profile.
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