SP-Star Meteor White vs. Outemu Gold
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor White and the Outemu Gold switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the SP-Star Meteor White and the Outemu Gold offer distinct features to cater to different preferences. The SP-Star Meteor White is a linear switch known for its gentle and subdued typing experience. With an easy-to-press feel and a soft pitter-patter sound profile, this switch falls under categories like 'Neutral', 'Mild', 'Thocky', and 'Polished'. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold is a clicky switch with no specific standout feature. While the Meteor White provides a smooth and quiet typing experience, the Gold switch offers a tactile feedback with audible clicks. If you prefer a gentle and quiet typing experience, the Meteor White may be the better choice for you. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
Gold plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The SP-Star Meteor White and the Outemu Gold both have nylon top housings, which create a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of the plastic. On the other hand, the Gold's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper, higher-pitched sound, given its stiffer composition. While both materials offer varying sound profiles, the use of polycarbonate in the Gold switch allows for a more clear and resonant sound, making it ideal for those who prioritize clarity in their typing experience. In contrast, the Meteor White's nylon top housing creates a duller and rounder sound, which may appeal to those seeking a softer typing experience.
In terms of the bottom housing, both the Meteor White and the Gold feature nylon materials. As a result, both switches elicit a similar deep and full sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon plastic. The use of nylon in the bottom housing of both switches ensures a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel. This similarity between the two switches in their bottom housing materials suggests that users can expect comparable typing experiences in terms of sound output and tactile feedback, highlighting the importance of bottom housing material in determining overall typing experience.
When comparing the impact of different housing materials on the sound and feel of a switch, it becomes evident that the top and bottom housings play distinct roles in shaping the overall typing experience. The qualities brought by each housing material, whether it be nylon or polycarbonate, contribute to the tactile feedback and sound output of the switch. While the bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, the top housing has a more pronounced impact on the sound when a key is released. Understanding the significance of both top and bottom housing materials in determining typing experience can help users make informed decisions when selecting switches that best suit their preferences.
Weight
In comparing the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, it is evident that the actuation force and bottom out force play a significant role in determining the typing experience. With the Meteor White having a bottom out force of 57 grams, it falls into the medium-light category. On the other hand, the Gold switch has a slightly lower actuation force of 45 grams but a heavier bottom out force of 60 grams, putting it in the medium range. Those who prefer a lighter touch may find the Meteor White more suitable for longer typing or gaming sessions, while individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Outemu Gold for its heavier bottom out force. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences, ensuring a satisfying typing experience based on individual preferences.
Travel distance
Both the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. When pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. This means that whether you are typing on a keyboard with Meteor White linear switches or Gold clicky switches, you can expect a consistent feel in terms of how far the keys travel when pressed. Overall, both switches offer a similar typing experience when it comes to travel distance.
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 Outemu Gold comes in at $3.10 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
In terms of sound, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch offers a neutral and thocky sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users and purposes. On the other hand, the Outemu Gold clicky switch does not have a specific sound description available. Please note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Meteor White switch provides a mild and polished typing experience, offering a gentle feel that is approachable to most users. The smooth and refined finish of the switch results in reduced friction and smooth key travel. As for the Outemu Gold switch, there is no specific feel description provided.
Overall, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch seems to offer a softer and more gentle typing experience with a subdued sound profile compared to the Outemu Gold clicky switch, for which specific details are not available. Depending on your preferences, you can expect similar results in terms of sound and feel with the Meteor White switch, while the Gold switch may offer a different experience that is not described in the available information.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Outemu Gold clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your preference for typing experience. If you are looking for a soft, gentle linear switch with a subtle sound profile, the Meteor White would be the ideal choice. Its medium-light bottom out force and subdued typing feel make it a comfortable option for everyday use. On the other hand, if you prefer a clicky switch with a moderate bottom out force and a satisfying sound profile, the Gold switch may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, consider your typing style and the environment in which you will be using the keyboard to make the best decision for your needs.
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