SP-Star Meteor White vs. Jwick Taro
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor White and the Jwick Taro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that often come to mind are the SP-Star Meteor White and the Jwick Taro. The Meteor White is a linear switch renowned for its gentle and subdued nature. With an easy actuation force and a soft pitter-patter sound profile, this switch provides a comfortable typing experience. On the other hand, the Taro is a tactile switch that offers a cozy and snappy typing experience. It provides a medium-level tactility and produces acute and crisp clacks. While both switches offer their own unique qualities, it's essential to dive deeper to determine which one is best suited for your preferences and 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
3.70 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
No
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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Meteor White and the Jwick Taro differ significantly. The Meteor White utilizes a nylon top housing while the Taro opts for a polycarbonate top housing. Nylon, being a softer plastic, absorbs more sound and creates a duller and rounder sound profile. In contrast, the polycarbonate top housing of the Taro produces a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. From an aesthetic standpoint, the Taro's clear polycarbonate housing allows for better RGB lighting effects. Overall, the choice between these two materials will result in contrasting sound profiles and visual effects.
In terms of the bottom housing, the Meteor White and the Taro share the same nylon material. Therefore, both switches will elicit a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to the relatively softer plastic that absorbs more sound. The bottom housing primarily influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed down. Hence, users can expect similar results in terms of the sound and tactile feedback when using both the Meteor White and the Taro, as they both feature the same nylon bottom housing.
In summary, the choice of housing materials greatly impacts the sound profile and aesthetics of the SP-Star Meteor White and the Jwick Taro. While the Meteor White's nylon housing creates a damped and round sound, the Taro's polycarbonate housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. In terms of the bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon and therefore offer a similar deep and full sound profile. Understanding these differences in housing materials allows users to choose a switch that aligns with their preferred sound and visual experience.
Weight
When comparing the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch, one notable difference lies in their actuation and bottom out forces. The actuation force of both switches is unavailable, making it uncertain whether they require the same amount of force to activate a keystroke. However, in terms of bottom out force, the Meteor White switch weighs in at 57 grams, which falls into the medium-light range. In contrast, the Taro switch requires a heavier force of 67 grams to bottom out, categorizing it as medium-heavy.
Considering the significance of weight in switch selection, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Meteor White switch suitable. It allows for longer periods of typing without causing excessive strain, making it an ideal choice for work-related tasks or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial push feel and desire a tactile response may lean towards the Taro switch. Its heavier bottom out force provides a more pronounced typing experience, lending a sense of solidity to each keystroke.
Although the actuation force remains unknown for both switches, it is possible that they could yield similar results in terms of ease of triggering a keystroke if they share a similar actuation force. However, without concrete information, it is difficult to make an accurate comparison in this aspect. In conclusion, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch offers a lighter bottom out force, while the Jwick Taro tactile switch provides a heavier and more tactile typing experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch is 4.0 mm, while the Jwick Taro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. In terms of distance, the Meteor White has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Taro. The Meteor White's travel distance of 4.0mm falls within the range of the most traditional travel distances, providing a familiar typing experience. On the other hand, the Taro's travel distance of 3.7mm is slightly shallower, which may be preferred by gamers who prioritize faster response times. The shorter travel distance of the Taro allows for quicker key presses. However, some individuals may find this abruptness uncomfortable, preferring the heartier depth provided by the longer travel distance of the Meteor White. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference; if responsiveness is a priority, the shorter travel distance of the Taro may be favorable, but for those seeking a more substantial feel, the Meteor White's longer travel distance would be the better option.
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 Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
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 gently pitter-patter sound profile. It can be described as neutral, having a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile. This makes it suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work. On the other hand, the Jwick Taro tactile switch produces acute and crisp clacks with a medium-level of tactility. Similar to the Meteor White, it is also described as having a neutral sound profile. It's important to note that the sound produced by these switches is also influenced by other factors such as the type of keyboard board used and the keycaps chosen.
Regarding feel, the Meteor White provides a mild and approachable typing experience. Its qualities fall within a safe middle-ground zone, making it suitable for most users. Additionally, it is described as having a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Taro switch, on the other hand, offers a buttery and seamless keystroke experience. It provides a smooth and fluid typing sensation. It is also worth mentioning that the Taro switch has a stepped feel, meaning it has two stages of tactile feedback. This sets it apart from the Meteor White, which lacks such a pronounced tactile characteristic.
Taking all the available information into consideration, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch offer different subjective qualities. The Meteor White provides a subdued and soft experience both in terms of sound and feel. It is suitable for those seeking a gentle and easy-to-push switch. On the other hand, the Taro switch offers a cozy and snappy typing experience with acute and crisp clacks. It provides a medium-level of tactility and a buttery, seamless keystroke. When comparing the sound profiles, both switches fall under the neutral category. However, it is important to remember that the overall sound of the switches is influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and the keycaps used.
Conclusion
To sum up, the choice between the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Jwick Taro tactile switch depends on your preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and type feel. If you prefer a lighter bottom out force, the Meteor White with its 57 grams would be a good choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force, the Taro with its 67 grams would be more suitable.
In terms of sound profile, the Meteor White offers a soft and gentle pitter-patter sound, while the Taro provides acute and crisp clacks. If you prefer a subdued and cozy typing experience, the Taro would be a good fit. However, if you prefer a more neutral sound profile, then the Meteor White is the way to go.
When it comes to type feel, the Meteor White offers a mild and polished experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. If you prefer a smoother and refined typing experience, this switch would be a good choice. On the other hand, the Taro provides a buttery and stepped feel, offering a seamless and effortless typing sensation with a mild tactile feedback.
Ultimately, the best switch for you depends on your personal preferences for bottom out force, sound profile, and type feel. Consider your desired typing experience and whether you prefer a lighter or heavier switch, a soft or crisp sound, and a gentle or more pronounced tactile feedback. By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision on whether to choose the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch or the Jwick Taro tactile switch.
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