Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver vs. SP-Star Meteor Orange

Overview

Embark on a gaming odyssey with the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switch, a linear switch that offers unmatched value from their budget-friendly G Pro line-up. With a shorter travel distance of 3.4mm, compared to the standard 4mm, these switches provide lightning-fast responsiveness, giving you a competitive advantage during your gaming sessions. The vibrant RGB lighting, enhanced by the frosted light diffuser, illuminates your gaming setup and adds an exhilarating auditory element with its medium-high pitch. On the other hand, we have the SP-Star Meteor Orange switch, a tactile switch known for its exquisite gentleness. With a soft and seductive tactility, these switches offer a neutral sound profile that enhances your typing experience. Both switches have their unique advantages, but which one is the best fit for you? Let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities to help you make the best decision for your typing or gaming needs.

By the numbers

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver Linear

SP-Star Meteor Orange Tactile

$3.40

$3.27 per 10

$5.50

$5.00 per 10

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Housing materials

The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches differ in terms of their housing materials. The G Pro 3.0 Silver features a polycarbonate top housing, while the Meteor Orange utilizes a nylon top housing. The polycarbonate material of the G Pro 3.0 Silver creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. It is a relatively stiffer plastic, allowing for a more clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Meteor Orange produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Despite these differences, both switches offer unique sound characteristics depending on the type of keypress.

Similarly, the bottom housings of the G Pro 3.0 Silver and the Meteor Orange are made of different materials. The G Pro 3.0 Silver utilizes a nylon bottom housing, while the Meteor Orange also employs a nylon bottom housing. Both housing materials contribute to a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on the switches. Because nylon is a softer plastic compared to harder plastics, it absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Thus, regardless of the switch model, users can expect a similar auditory experience in terms of sound profile when it comes to the bottom-out sound and feel.

It is important to note that if a switch possesses different top and bottom housings, the qualities associated with each material will be distributed between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch when pressed down. On the other hand, the top housing largely affects the sound when the key is released. This distinction highlights how the housing materials of a switch can have a nuanced influence on the overall auditory experience during typing or gaming.

Weight

When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, there are some notable differences. The G Pro 3.0 Silver has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams, making it easier to trigger a keystroke with a lighter touch. In contrast, the actuation force of the Meteor Orange switch is unknown, so it is difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect.

Moving on to the bottom out force, the G Pro 3.0 Silver requires a force of 50 grams to fully press the key down. This slightly heavier bottom out force provides a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange switch has a bottom out force of 57 grams, making it slightly heavier than the G Pro 3.0 Silver. Although the actuation force for the Meteor Orange switch is unknown, we can infer that it will likely have a similar or heavier actuation force compared to the G Pro 3.0 Silver, based on its higher bottom out force.

Considering weight as an important factor, those who prefer a lighter switch may opt for the G Pro 3.0 Silver, as its actuation and bottom out forces are both on the lighter side. This lighter weight allows for longer typing sessions without causing fatigue, making it suitable for both work and gaming purposes. On the other hand, individuals who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may lean towards the Meteor Orange switch, with its slightly higher bottom out force. This heavier force provides a satisfying tactile feedback while typing, adding to the overall typing experience.

In summary, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch has a lighter actuation force and bottom out force compared to the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch. While the actuation force of the Meteor Orange switch is unknown, its higher bottom out force suggests a similar or heavier actuation force. Ultimately, the decision between these switches depends on personal preference for a lighter or heavier typing experience.

Travel distance

Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of the distance you feel when pressing down on a key for both switches. The travel distance refers to the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom, which ultimately determines the actuation point and overall typing experience. This 4 mm travel distance ensures consistent and comfortable key presses, making both switches suitable options for gamers and typists alike.

Price comparison

Typing experience

In terms of sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches offer a bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound profile. These switches produce a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed, resembling a soft "knock" or deep "thud". On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches have a neutral sound profile and also produce a thocky sound when pressed. The neutral sound profile of the Meteor Orange switches means they have a moderate sound level and are suitable for various purposes. However, it's important to note that the sound produced by a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.

In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches are described as buttery and creamy. These switches provide a smooth and fluid typing experience, with a seamless and effortless sensation. The typing experience on these switches can be likened to gliding your fingers across the keys with ease, as they effortlessly melt into each keystroke. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches offer a mild and polished typing experience. They provide a gentle tactile feedback compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics, and the polished finish results in reduced friction and smooth key travel.

Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver and SP-Star Meteor Orange switches offer different subjective qualities. The G Pro 3.0 Silver switches provide a bassy sound profile and a buttery, creamy typing experience. They are specifically designed for gaming enthusiasts, offering shorter travel distance and lightning-fast responsiveness. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange switches have a neutral sound profile and a mild, polished feel. They are suitable for a variety of purposes and provide a gentle tactile feedback. Depending on your preferences and use case, both switches can offer a satisfying typing experience. However, it's important to consider other factors such as personal preference, keyboard board, and keycaps when making a decision.

Conclusion

To sum up, if you are looking for a budget-friendly switch that provides lightning-fast responsiveness for gaming, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch is the way to go. With a shorter travel distance and vibrant RGB lighting, this switch offers exceptional value and a competitive advantage. The G Pro 3.0 Silver has a bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound profile, giving your gaming sessions a deep and satisfying auditory element. In terms of feel, this switch is described as buttery and creamy, providing a seamless and effortless typing experience.

On the other hand, if you prefer a tactile switch with a moderate actuation force and sound profile, the SP-Star Meteor Orange switch is the right choice. These switches offer a gentle and neutral typing experience suitable for both beginners and advanced users. With a thocky sound profile, pressing and releasing the keys will give you a deep "thud" or a soft "knock" sensation. The Meteor Orange switch is described as mild and polished, providing a safe and approachable typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.

Ultimately, the decision between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch depends on your preferences and specific needs. Consider the gaming advantages and exceptional value offered by the G Pro 3.0 Silver, as well as the gentle and refined typing experience provided by the Meteor Orange. Both switches have their unique benefits, allowing you to choose the one that suits your personal style and requirements.

Mentioned in this article

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver Linear

$3.40

$3.27 per 10

Learn more

SP-Star Meteor Orange Tactile

$5.50

$5.00 per 10

Learn more