Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. SP-Star Meteor Orange
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and typing style. On one hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black offers a heavy and satisfying linear typing experience with its 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force. This switch is ideal for those who prefer a more substantial feel when typing and enjoy a medium-high pitch auditory experience. Additionally, the RGB lighting effects are enhanced by the frosted light diffuser, providing a vibrant and radiant display. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange switch offers a gentle and tactile typing experience with a soft and seductive tactility. With a neutral sound profile, these switches are perfect for those who enjoy a more subdued and polished typing experience. 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
60g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
57g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the SP-Star Meteor Orange, we can see that they differ in terms of sound profile. The G Pro 3.0 Black's INK blend top housing provides a pointed and higher-pitched sound, giving it a more clacky feel. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange's nylon top housing offers a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to the softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to the G Pro 3.0 Black.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the G Pro 3.0 Black uses POM material, creating a deeper and relatively more muted sound profile. In contrast, the Meteor Orange's nylon bottom housing also contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to its top housing. Despite being made of different materials, both switches deliver a rich and full sound experience, with the G Pro 3.0 Black offering a unique sound and the Meteor Orange providing a classic sound with its nylon housing.
Overall, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and SP-Star Meteor Orange have different housing materials, they both offer a satisfying typing experience with distinct sound profiles. The G Pro 3.0 Black's distinctive INK blend top housing gives it a clacky feel, while the Meteor Orange's nylon housing provides a fuller sound. Whether you prefer a sharper sound profile or a deeper one, both switches offer a high-quality typing experience that can cater to a variety of preferences.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, we find that the G Pro 3.0 Black has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, while the Meteor Orange has a lighter actuation force of None grams and a bottom out force of 57 grams. This makes the G Pro 3.0 Black a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier forces, while the Meteor Orange offers a lighter touch for longer typing periods. The actuation force of the G Pro 3.0 Black provides a strong push feel, which some users may prefer for a more significant typing experience, whereas the Meteor Orange's lighter actuation force offers a more comfortable typing experience for extended periods. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of how far the switch travels from top to bottom. This could result in comparable actuation and bottoming out feelings for both switches, offering consistent performance for users who prefer either linear or tactile switches. Overall, the travel distance for both switches is the same, providing users with a familiar typing experience regardless of which switch they choose.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Black for $2.77.
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.
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 Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch is known for its clacky nature, providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch offers a more neutral sound profile, with a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes. Both switches offer different auditory experiences, catering to different preferences when it comes to typing sounds.
Moving on to feel, the G Pro 3.0 Black switch is described as creamy and silky, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with a medium-heavy feel. In contrast, the SP-Star Meteor Orange switch is described as mild and polished, providing a gentler typing experience in a safe middle-ground zone. Both switches focus on delivering a comfortable typing feel, but with varying levels of smoothness and gentleness, catering to different preferences in tactile feedback.
Overall, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch offer different sound and feel experiences, both switches are designed to provide a satisfying and comfortable typing experience for users. Whether you prefer a clacky switch with a heavier feel or a more neutral switch with a gentler touch, both options have their own unique qualities that cater to different typing preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a more substantial typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom-out force, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch is the way to go. It offers a balanced feel with a clacky sound profile and a creamy, silky typing sensation. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter bottom-out force and a gentler tactile typing experience, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch is the better choice. It has a thocky sound profile and a mild, polished typing feel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for typing feel, sound profile, and bottom-out force. Choose the switch that aligns the most with your typing style and preferences to enhance your overall typing experience.
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