SP-Star Meteor White vs. Gateron Type L
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor White and the Gateron Type L switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch to the Gateron Type L linear switch, both offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The Meteor White is praised for its gentle and soft feel, making it easy to press with a subtle pitter-patter sound profile. On the other hand, the Type L from Gateron is highlighted for being the lightest in its series, requiring only 45g to bottom out and producing a deeper sound signature. While the Meteor White is categorized as neutral, mild, thocky, and polished, the Type L falls under neutral, subdued, feathery, and easy to press. Choosing between these switches ultimately depends on personal preference and typing style. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
38g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
Both the SP-Star Meteor White and the Gateron Type L switches utilize nylon as their housing material, which leads to a deeper and fuller sound profile while typing. The nylon material is softer and absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. This similarity in housing material ensures that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound production from both switches.
While the top housing of the Meteor White and the Type L switches share the same nylon material, the bottom housing may differ. If the top and bottom housings are indeed different, the qualities each housing material brings to the switch will be divided between the top and bottom components. The bottom housing will have more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing will affect the sound when releasing a key. This difference in housing materials can result in subtle variations in typing experience between the two switches.
Overall, the choice of nylon housing for both the Meteor White and the Type L switches highlights the preference for a material that enhances sound quality during typing. While the top and bottom housing materials may play a role in specific aspects of the typing experience, the shared use of nylon ensures that users can enjoy a deep and full sound profile regardless of the slight differences in housing design. Ultimately, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with a similar level of sound immersion.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, it is clear that the Type L is the lighter option overall. The Meteor White has a bottom out force of 57 grams, which is medium-light, while the Type L has a lower bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a lighter option. The actuation force of the Type L is also lighter at 38 grams, compared to the Meteor White, which has an actuation force of None grams. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, the Gateron Type L may be the better choice. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel with a stronger push, the Meteor White may be the preferred option. Both switches offer different experiences due to their varying actuation and bottom out forces, allowing users to choose based on their personal preference for typing or gaming activities.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch is the same, both measuring at 4mm. This means that both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of the distance the key travels when pressed. As a result, users can expect consistent tactile feedback and responsiveness with either switch. Whether typing on a keyboard with the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch or the Gateron Type L linear switch, the travel distance will be identical, ensuring a seamless typing experience regardless of the switch used.
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 Type L comes in at $4.70 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, both the SP-Star Meteor White and the Gateron Type L switches fall under the category of neutral, which means they have moderate sound profiles suitable for various purposes. The Meteor White is described as having a thocky sound, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying tone. On the other hand, the Type L offers a more subdued sound, dampened and subtle in comparison. Ultimately, the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard and keycaps being used.
In terms of feel, the Meteor White switch is considered mild and polished, offering a gentle typing experience with a smooth and refined finish. This ensures a comfortable typing feel that falls in a safe middle-ground zone. Conversely, the Type L switch is described as feathery and easy-to-press, requiring minimal exertion and providing a light actuation force for reduced finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Both switches aim to enhance the typing experience through their respective characteristics.
In conclusion, while the SP-Star Meteor White and Gateron Type L switches have different sound and feel profiles, they both offer qualities that cater to a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience. The Meteor White excels in offering a thocky sound and a gentle, polished feel, while the Type L provides a subdued sound and an easy-to-press, feathery feel. Selecting between these switches will ultimately depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and the typing experience desired.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Gateron Type L linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a switch with a medium-light bottom out force and a soft, pitter-patter sound profile, along with a neutral or thocky sound signature, the Meteor White may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom out force and a sound profile that elegantly veers towards the deeper end of the acoustic spectrum, along with a neutral or subdued sound signature, then the Type L could be the switch that suits your preferences. Ultimately, the decision will come down to your personal typing style, sound preference, and desired typing experience.
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