Gateron G Pro 3.0 White vs. SP-Star Meteor Orange
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White 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 White and the SP-Star Meteor Orange. These switches offer distinct features that cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 White is a linear switch, designed for delicate typists who appreciate a light touch. With an actuation force of only 38g, this switch ensures effortless and sensitive keystrokes. It also boasts a frosted light diffuser, allowing for brighter RGB lighting, and a medium-high pitch for a satisfying auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange is a tactile switch, known for its exquisite gentleness. Its soft and seductive tactility is complemented by a neutral sound profile, providing a pleasant typing experience. While these general pointers provide a starting point for selecting the best switch for you, let's now delve deeper into the specifics so that you can make the most informed decision.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the SP-Star Meteor Orange differ in their housing materials, with the former featuring a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, while the latter has a nylon top and bottom housing. The polycarbonate top housing of the G Pro 3.0 White creates a sharper and crisper sound profile, attributed to the stiff nature of polycarbonate. This material allows for a more resonant sound, making it ideal for those who prioritize sound clarity. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate makes it perfect for showcasing RGB lighting effects. In contrast, the nylon top housing of the Meteor Orange offers a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer composition. Nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound experience, which may be preferred by those who enjoy a more muted typing sound.
Both the G Pro 3.0 White and the Meteor Orange share a nylon bottom housing, contributing to a similar typing experience in terms of sound profile. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, creating a deeper and fuller sound when pressing down on the keys. This feature is desirable for users who appreciate a tactile and satisfying typing experience. Thus, regardless of the switch's color, the nylon bottom housing in both options ensures a similar outcome in terms of sound and feel.
It is worth noting that the housing materials of the G Pro 3.0 White and the Meteor Orange play a significant role in the overall sound when releasing a key. While the polycarbonate top housing of the G Pro 3.0 White creates a sharper sound when letting go of a key, the nylon top housing of the Meteor Orange contributes to a rounder and less pronounced sound. This distinction would be a deciding factor for users who are particular about the sound when releasing keys.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. The G Pro 3.0 White has a relatively light actuation force of 38 grams, making it easier for quick and effortless keystrokes. Additionally, it requires a bottom out force of 45 grams, providing a satisfying yet relatively light typing experience. On the other hand, the exact actuation force of the Meteor Orange switch is unknown, but it does have a higher bottom out force of 57 grams, making it slightly heavier than the G Pro 3.0 White. Although the difference in actuation force cannot be determined, it can be assumed that the Meteor Orange switch may have a similar or slightly heavier actuation force compared to the G Pro 3.0 White. Ultimately, the choice between these switches would depend on personal preference and typing style. Those who prefer a lighter feel may opt for the G Pro 3.0 White, ideal for extended typing or gaming sessions, while those seeking a more substantial typing experience might prefer the slightly heavier Meteor Orange switch.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key fitted with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance as the switch travels from the top to the bottom. Therefore, whether you choose the G Pro 3.0 White or the Meteor Orange, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White has an MSRP of $3.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 White for $3.27.
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 White linear switch is described as having a clacky sound profile. This means that when pressed, it produces a sharp and snappy sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate sound profile, suitable for most intents and purposes. It does not have any specific descriptors like clacky or thocky, suggesting that it has a more balanced and subtle sound signature. 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.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switch offers a few different descriptors. It is described as creamy, easy-to-press, feathery, mild, silky, and subtle. This suggests that it provides a smooth and buttery typing experience, with a light actuation force that makes typing effortless and comfortable. The feathery and mild descriptors also indicate that it reduces finger fatigue and strain during extended typing sessions. The Meteor Orange tactile switch, on the other hand, is described as mild and polished. This means that it offers a more gentle typing experience compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. It has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in a sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Taking all the available information into account, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch have different subjective qualities. The G Pro 3.0 White offers a clacky sound profile and a variety of descriptors that suggest a smooth and easy-to-press typing experience. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange switch has a neutral sound profile and is described as mild and polished, indicating a gentle and refined typing experience. While they have some similarities in terms of sound being neutral, it is clear that they provide different typing experiences. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches would depend on personal preference and the specific typing experience desired.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are a delicate typist looking for an incredibly light actuation force and a budget-friendly option, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch is the perfect choice for you. With its light bottom out force of 45 grams and creamy, easy-to-press feel, you can expect a smooth and buttery typing experience without breaking the bank. The G Pro 3.0 White also offers a clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed.
On the other hand, if you prefer a switch with a medium-light bottom out force of 57 grams and a gentle tactile feedback, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch is the ideal option. This switch offers a mild typing experience with a polished, smooth finish, resulting in reduced friction and sleek key travel. The Meteor Orange switch also provides a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for most intents and purposes.
Ultimately, your choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the SP-Star Meteor Orange will depend on your personal preferences and typing style. Whether you prioritize a light and effortless typing feel or a gentle tactile feedback, both switches offer their unique advantages. So consider your typing needs and make an informed decision based on the information provided. Happy typing!
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