Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. SP-Star Meteor Orange
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
Introducing two popular mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the SP-Star Meteor Orange. These switches offer unique features and characteristics that cater to different preferences and typing styles. The G Pro 3.0 Red, a linear switch, is well-known for its budget-friendly price and smooth typing experience. With a medium-light actuation force, it strikes a balance between responsiveness and ease of use. The frosted light diffuser allows for brighter and more vibrant RGB lighting effects, while the medium-high pitch provides a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange, a tactile switch, stands out for its exquisitely gentle nature. Its soft and seductive tactility offers a delightful typing experience, accompanied by a neutral sound profile. Whether you prefer the creamy, mild feel of the G Pro 3.0 Red or the gentle, thocky sensation of the Meteor Orange, both switches bring their unique qualities to the table. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The main difference between the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the SP-Star Meteor Orange lies in the top housing. The G Pro 3.0 Red utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which offers a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to polycarbonate being a relatively stiffer plastic, resulting in a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is ideal for RGB lighting purposes.
In contrast, the Meteor Orange features a nylon top housing. Typing on switches with nylon housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic than polycarbonate, which allows it to absorb more sound and create a duller and rounder sound. While it may not provide the same level of clarity as polycarbonate, the nylon top housing contributes to a more mellow and resonant sound.
When it comes to the bottom housing, both the G Pro 3.0 Red and the Meteor Orange utilize nylon. Typing on switches with nylon bottom housing also elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softness of nylon allows it to absorb more sound compared to harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, in terms of sound profile, the bottom housings of both switches deliver similar results.
Overall, the main difference between the G Pro 3.0 Red and the Meteor Orange lies in their top housing materials. The polycarbonate top housing of the G Pro 3.0 Red offers a sharper and crisper sound, while the nylon top housing of the Meteor Orange provides a deeper and fuller sound. However, both switches share the same nylon bottom housing, resulting in a similar sound profile when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel. So if you're looking for a switch with colorful RGB lighting and a clear and resonant sound, the G Pro 3.0 Red with its polycarbonate top housing would be a good choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a more mellow and resonant sound, the Meteor Orange with its nylon top housing would be a suitable option.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, it becomes apparent that each switch offers a different tactile experience. The G Pro 3.0 Red has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, allowing for a quicker response and faster typing speed. Furthermore, its bottom out force of 50 grams ensures a gentle and smooth keystroke experience. In contrast, the actuation force of the Meteor Orange switch is currently unavailable, making it difficult to directly compare to the G Pro 3.0 Red. However, it does have a slightly higher bottom out force of 57 grams, which indicates a slightly heavier typing experience.
Considering the weight of these switches is an important factor for users with different preferences. Those who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the G Pro 3.0 Red, as it allows for longer typing sessions without fatigue, making it ideal for work or extended gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial typing experience may find the heavier bottom out force of the Meteor Orange switch more satisfying. Although the actuation force of the Meteor Orange is unknown, the difference in bottom out force suggests a medium-light touch. Thus, while the G Pro 3.0 Red offers a lighter typing experience, the Meteor Orange switch provides a slightly heavier, yet still comfortable, keystroke.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key, you will feel the same distance of travel for both switches. Both switches offer a consistent and comfortable travel distance, ensuring a similar typing experience. Whether you choose the G Pro 3.0 Red or the Meteor Orange, you can expect the same level of performance and responsiveness due to their equal travel distances.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red 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 Red 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
When it comes to sound, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and SP-Star Meteor Orange switches have a neutral sound profile. This means that they have a moderate actuation force requirement and produce a moderate sound when pressed. These switches are suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use them at home or work. However, it is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red offers a creamy, mild, polished, and silky typing experience. The creamy aspect of these switches provides a smooth and buttery sensation, as if gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. Additionally, the mild characteristic makes the typing experience gentle and approachable to most users. The polished finish contributes to a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Lastly, the silky attribute enhances the overall smoothness of the typing feel, minimizing resistance when pressing and releasing keys.
On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches provide a mild and polished typing experience. Similar to the G Pro 3.0 Red, the mild characteristic ensures a gentle typing experience suitable for a wide range of users. The polished finish contributes to a sleek and refined typing experience, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
To summarize, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and SP-Star Meteor Orange switches offer a similar neutral sound profile. In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Red provides a wider range of qualities including creamy, mild, polished, and silky, enhancing the smoothness and ease of typing. However, the Meteor Orange switches offer a mild and polished typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference and the specific tactile and auditory qualities desired.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a budget-friendly linear switch that provides a smooth typing experience, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red is a great choice. With its medium-light actuation force, it strikes a balance between responsiveness and ease of use. This switch is also known for its frosted light diffuser, allowing for brighter and more vibrant RGB lighting effects, as well as its medium-high pitch which provides a satisfying auditory experience. The G Pro 3.0 Red is suitable for most intents and purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use it at home or work.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more gentle and tactile typing experience, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch is a fantastic option. With a slightly higher bottom out force of 57 grams, this switch offers a medium-light feel. It is described as having a soft and seductive tactility, providing a satisfying typing experience. In terms of sound, the Meteor Orange switch falls under the neutral category, suitable for most intents and purposes. Additionally, it has a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Ultimately, your choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the SP-Star Meteor Orange will depend on your preference for linear or tactile switches, as well as the specific typing experience you desire. Both switches are of high quality and can enhance your typing performance.
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