Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red vs. SP-Star Meteor White
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the SP-Star Meteor White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the SP-Star Meteor White. The G Pro 3.0 Red, a linear switch, aims to provide a smooth typing experience with its medium-light actuation force, striking a balance between responsiveness and ease of use. It also offers a frosted light diffuser for brighter and more vibrant RGB lighting effects, and its medium-high pitch delivers a satisfying auditory experience. On the other hand, the Meteor White is a gentle linear switch, known for its subdued nature. It is easy to push and offers a soft, pitter-patter sound profile. Both switches have their unique characteristics and advantages. 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
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
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the SP-Star Meteor White differ in their housing materials, with the G Pro 3.0 Red featuring a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, while the Meteor White has a nylon top housing and a nylon bottom housing as well.
In terms of sound profile, the polycarbonate top housing of the G Pro 3.0 Red creates a sharper and higher-pitched sound, thanks to its relatively stiffer plastic composition. This leads to a more clear and resonant sound profile when typing or gaming. On the other hand, the nylon top housing of the Meteor White produces a deeper and fuller sound. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound profile. Therefore, users can expect a contrasting auditory experience between these two switches.
Similarly, the bottom housings of both switches are made of nylon, which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile compared to harder plastics. As a result, the typing experience on both switches will share this characteristic sound quality. Both the G Pro 3.0 Red and the Meteor White offer a satisfying typing experience with their nylon bottom housings, providing users with a similar sound profile and feel when it comes to bottoming out keys.
While the top and bottom housings of the switches are different, it is important to note that the respective qualities of each housing material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. When pressing down on either switch, the bottom housing's characteristics will impact the bottom-out sound and feel. Conversely, releasing a key will be more influenced by the top housing. Therefore, depending on the desired sound and feel, users can choose between the sharper and clearer sound of the G Pro 3.0 Red's polycarbonate top housing or the deeper and fuller sound of the Meteor White's nylon top housing.
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 White linear switch, there are some notable similarities and differences. In terms of actuation force, the G Pro 3.0 Red requires 45 grams of force, while the Meteor White's actuation force is unknown. However, both switches can provide a relatively light typing experience, allowing for longer periods of typing without fatigue.
Where the switches differ is in their bottom out force. The G Pro 3.0 Red requires 50 grams of force to fully press down, providing a slightly heavier and more substantial typing experience when compared to its actuation force. In contrast, the Meteor White has a bottom out force of 57 grams, making it slightly heavier than the G Pro 3.0 Red in this aspect.
For those who prefer a lighter typing feel, both switches can offer a similar result due to their lower actuation forces. However, if someone desires a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing experience, they may lean towards the G Pro 3.0 Red with its heavier bottom out force. Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red can be considered the lighter option, while the SP-Star Meteor White offers a slightly heavier typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches provide a consistent and familiar key press experience in terms of the distance they travel from the top to the bottom. Whether you choose the G Pro 3.0 Red or the Meteor White, you can expect a similar tactile feedback and key press feeling as both switches offer the same travel distance.
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 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 it comes to sound, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and SP-Star Meteor White switches fall into the neutral category, which means they have a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile. This makes them suitable for a wide range of users, whether beginners or advanced, and for both home and work environments. However, it's important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Red is described as creamy, mild, polished, and silky. This suggests that it offers a smooth and buttery typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. The keystrokes feel effortless and gliding, enhancing the overall smoothness of the typing feel. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor White is described as mild and polished, indicating a more gentle typing experience with a sleek and refined finish. These switches also provide reduced friction and smooth key travel. Overall, both switches offer a comfortable and approachable typing experience.
In conclusion, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and SP-Star Meteor White switches have similar subjective qualities in terms of sound and feel. They both fall into the neutral category in terms of sound, offering a moderate sound profile suitable for most purposes. In terms of feel, both switches provide a smooth and gentle typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. While the G Pro 3.0 Red is described as creamy and silky, the Meteor White is described as mild and polished. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will come down to personal preference and other factors such as budget and specific typing needs. It's important to consider the sound and feel in conjunction with other aspects such as actuation force, durability, and compatibility.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option that provides a smooth typing experience, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch would be a great choice. With its light bottom out force of 50 grams, it strikes a balance between responsiveness and ease of use. The frosted light diffuser allows for vibrant RGB lighting effects, while the medium-high pitch provides a satisfying auditory experience. This switch is described as having a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, or if you plan to use it at home or work. In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Red is described as creamy, mild, polished, and silky, offering a smooth and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
On the other hand, if you prefer a more subdued and gentle typing experience, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch would be a suitable option. With a bottom out force of 57 grams, it offers a medium-light feel. The pitter-patter sound profile of the Meteor White switch adds to the soft typing experience. Like the G Pro 3.0 Red, the sound profile of the Meteor White is described as neutral, making it versatile for different users and environments. In terms of feel, the Meteor White switch is described as mild and polished, providing a gentle typing experience with smooth and refined key travel.
Ultimately, your choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red and the SP-Star Meteor White linear switches will depend on your preferences for key feel and sound. Consider whether you prioritize a light and responsive typing experience with vibrant RGB lighting (G Pro 3.0 Red) or a more subdued and gentle typing experience with a softer sound profile (Meteor White). Both switches offer a neutral sound profile and a polished feel, ensuring a comfortable typing experience.
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