Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. SP-Star Meteor White
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the SP-Star Meteor White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the SP-Star Meteor White mechanical keyboard switches, there are clear distinctions to consider. The G Pro 3.0 Black offers a heavier actuation and bottom-out force, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a medium-heavy feel and a medium-high pitch auditory experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor White provides a gentler typing experience with easy-to-push keys and a soft, pitter-patter sound profile. While the G Pro 3.0 Black is clacky and creamy, the Meteor White is neutral and thocky. 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
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black features a proprietary INK blend top housing that gives it a pointed and high-pitched sound profile, often described as clacky. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor White utilizes a nylon top housing which produces a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. While the G Pro 3.0 Black emphasizes a thinner and higher-pitched sound, the Meteor White leans towards a duller and rounder sound overall.
In terms of bottom housing, the G Pro 3.0 Black is equipped with a POM housing that creates a deeper and relatively muted sound profile. Conversely, the Meteor White utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which also contributes to the deeper and fuller sound experience characteristic of nylon material. The bottom housing of a switch plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel, impacting the overall typing experience.
Overall, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and SP-Star Meteor White have different housing materials, they both offer unique sound profiles and tactile experiences to users. The INK blend top housing of the G Pro 3.0 Black provides a clacky and higher-pitched sound, while the Meteor White's nylon top housing delivers a deeper and fuller sound. Similarly, the POM bottom housing of the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a muted sound profile, while the nylon bottom housing of the Meteor White contributes to a deeper typing experience. Regardless of the differences, both switches strive to provide a satisfying and unique typing experience for users.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch, it is clear that they have different actuation and bottom out forces. The G Pro 3.0 Black has a higher actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a more medium-heavy option. In contrast, the Meteor White has an unknown actuation force but a lower bottom out force of 57 grams, which places it in the medium-light category. This means that the G Pro 3.0 Black will provide a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Meteor White will offer a lighter touch for longer typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch both have a travel distance of 4mm, making them equal in this aspect. Despite their similarities in this regard, they may still provide different typing experiences due to other factors such as actuation force or overall feel. Regardless, both switches offer a consistent and precise typing experience with a moderate travel distance, making them suitable choices for those who prefer a more responsive and tactile typing experience.
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 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.
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 comparing the sound qualities of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch, we see a noticeable difference. The G Pro 3.0 Black has a clacky sound profile, characterized by a sharp and snappy noise when pressed, which adds a sense of crispness to the typing experience. On the other hand, the Meteor White switch offers a more subdued sound, with a gentle pitter-patter noise that is soft and pleasant to the ears. Depending on personal preference, some users may prefer the more vibrant clacky sound of the G Pro 3.0 Black, while others might enjoy the quiet and understated sound of the Meteor White.
In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Black provides a medium-heavy typing experience with a smooth and buttery feel, known as 'creamy'. This switch offers a substantial resistance that is satisfying for those who prefer a more substantial keypress. In contrast, the Meteor White switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, providing a gentle and approachable feel that falls within a safe middle-ground zone. The smooth and refined finish of the Meteor White switch ensures a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Users who prefer a light and polished typing feel may lean towards the Meteor White switch, while those who enjoy a more substantial and buttery feel may opt for the G Pro 3.0 Black.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Black provides a clacky sound and a creamy feel, appealing to users who enjoy a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Meteor White switch offers a subdued sound and a polished feel, providing a gentle and approachable typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, users can choose between the two switches to achieve their desired typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer high-quality performance and durability, ensuring a satisfying typing experience regardless of the choice made.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switches, consider your preference for typing experience. If you prefer a more substantive and slightly heavier feel with a clacky sound profile, the G Pro 3.0 Black may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a softer and lighter typing experience with a more subdued sound profile, the Meteor White may be more suited to your liking. Additionally, if you enjoy a buttery and smooth typing feel, the G Pro 3.0 Black offers options such as creamy or silky descriptors, while the Meteor White provides a more mild and polished typing experience. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you desire.
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