SP-Star Meteor Orangevs. Gazzew U4T
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Gazzew U4T switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing the perfect mechanical keyboard switch, there are a plethora of options available, each with its own unique characteristics. Two switches that stand out in the tactile category are the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Gazzew U4T. The Meteor Orange switches are renowned for their exquisitely gentle nature, providing users with a soft and seductive tactility. In addition, these switches offer a neutral sound profile, ensuring a distraction-free typing experience. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4Ts boast a fusion of thockiness and sharp tactility, resulting in an assertive tactile feedback that satisfies both auditory and tactile senses. Paired with a bassy "thock" sound profile, the U4Ts provide an unparalleled typing experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
$5.50
$5.00 per 10 switches
$6.50 per 10 switches
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
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
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Proprietary Gazzew blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel 17.5mm Korean spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Gazzew U4T switches have distinct characteristics that contribute to their overall sound profiles. The Meteor Orange utilizes a nylon top housing, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound when typing. This is due to nylon's softer nature, allowing it to absorb more sound and create a duller and rounder sound profile. In contrast, the U4T features a proprietary Gazzew blend top housing that is often referred to as "boba plastic." This unique plastic blend is also soft and contributes to a rich and deep sound profile.
Similarly, when it comes to the bottom housings, both switches utilize nylon, which is a classic switch housing material. Nylon's softer composition lends itself to eliciting a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. It absorbs more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. On the other hand, the U4T introduces its proprietary Gazzew blend bottom housing, also known as "boba plastic." This material adds to the switches' rich and deep sound profile due to its softness.
While the housing materials for the top and bottom of the switches differ, their impact on the overall sound profile is split between the bottom-out and the release of a key. The bottom housing primarily influences the bottom-out sound and feel when the switch is pressed, while the top housing has a more significant impact on the sound when the key is released. Therefore, while the specific materials may differ, both the SP-Star Meteor Orange and Gazzew U4T switches aim to provide a satisfying and immersive typing experience with their respective housing materials.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch, we find some similarities and differences. Starting with the actuation force, unfortunately, the specific value for both switches is unavailable. However, for those seeking a lighter typing experience, the lighter force requirement of the Meteor Orange may be more appealing. This can allow for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue. On the other hand, if one prefers a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, the Gazzew U4T may be preferred as it has a slightly heavier bottom out force of 62 grams compared to the 57 grams of the Meteor Orange. While both switches fall into the medium range for bottom out force, the U4T is slightly heavier. Therefore, those who desire a more pronounced tactile response may opt for the U4T. Overall, the choice between the two switches depends on individual preferences in terms of desired actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Gazzew U4T tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key, both switches will travel a distance of 4 mm from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance guarantees that you will get similar results in terms of the feedback and sensation you experience when using either switch. Whether you opt for the SP-Star Meteor Orange or the Gazzew U4T, you can be assured that the travel distance will be consistent and provide a satisfying typing experience.
Sound tests
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Meteor Orange has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor Orange for $5.00.
The Gazzew U4T comes in at $6.50 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.
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Typing experience
In terms of sound, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch has a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you are using it at home or work. Additionally, the Meteor Orange switch is also described as thocky, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed, resembling a deep "thud" or a soft "knock" when the key is pressed and released. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch is described as bassy and thocky. It offers a deeper and richer sound profile, characterized by a lower frequency range resembling the depth and richness associated with bass tones. Similar to the Meteor Orange switch, the U4T also produces a satisfying thocky sound when pressed. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch is also influenced by other factors like the keyboard board and keycaps being used.
When it comes to feel, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch is described as mild and polished. Being a mild switch, it offers a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. Its qualities stand in a safe middle-ground zone, making it approachable to most users. Additionally, the Meteor Orange switch has a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. This smoothness is achieved through either the materials used or factory lubing, reducing friction and providing smooth key travel. On the other hand, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch is described as sharp. This means that it has a high feedback intensity, with a strong and crisp tactile bump that can be distinctly felt with each keypress.
In conclusion, the SP-Star Meteor Orange and Gazzew U4T tactile switches offer different subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. The Meteor Orange switch has a soft and seductive tactility, a neutral sound profile with a thocky characteristic, a mild feel, and a polished finish. On the other hand, the U4T switch embodies a harmonious fusion of thockiness and sharp tactility, providing a bassy thock sound profile and a sharp tactile feedback. Both switches aim to deliver auditory and tactile satisfaction, with the Meteor Orange being more gentle and the U4T being more intense. However, it is important to consider personal preferences and other factors such as keyboard and keycap choices to achieve the desired experience.
Try switches before you buy them
We understand that finding the perfect keyboard switches can be a challenging and time-consuming process. This led us to design Milktooth's try at-home program that allows you to sample and test different switches in the comfort of your own home, ensuring you make the right choice for your typing preferences.
You can try 10 switches at home for 5 days, and your switches come pre-installed on switch testers. Of course, you’re more than free to install them into your own board to try as well for the most representative typing experience.
Gone are the days of going through countless forums and reviews to find the ideal switches. Now, you can experience the tactile feedback, actuation points, and sound profiles firsthand, empowering you to make an informed decision without any pressure or time constraints.
We understand the importance of finding the perfect typing experience, and our try at-home program eliminates the risk of making a costly mistake. Experiment with different switch variants, test them in various typing scenarios, and fine-tune your keyboard to match your individual preferences.
The try at-home program costs only $10, which includes shipping both ways. By trying before you buy, you can make the most informed purchasing decision possible. Simply click the "try at home" button on any given switch webpage to get started.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-light switch with soft and seductive tactility, along with a neutral sound profile, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch would be a great choice for you. These switches provide a gentle typing experience and offer a safe, middle-ground feel. Additionally, their polished finish ensures a sleek and smooth key travel. On the other hand, if you prefer a medium switch with a harmonious fusion of thockiness and sharp tactility, the Gazzew U4T tactile switch would be the better option. These switches provide an assertive tactile feedback and produce a bassy 'thock' sound profile, adding auditory and tactile satisfaction to each keystroke. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your preference in terms of sound and feel.
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