Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow vs. SP-Star Meteor Orange
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and SP-Star Meteor Orange offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow stands out as a budget-friendly option known for its linear switch design. Typing on these switches produces a higher-pitched clacky sound and a bouncy feel. In contrast, the Meteor Orange switches are hailed for their gentle tactility and neutral sound profile. With a soft and seductive feel, they provide a satisfying typing experience. Both switches have their own distinct qualities that make them appealing to different users. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
67g
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
15.4mm long spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the SP-Star Meteor Orange differ in their housing materials. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, while the Meteor Orange utilizes a nylon top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, making it ideal for users who prefer a more clear and resonant sound. On the other hand, nylon elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, creating a duller and rounder sound. Therefore, those who prefer a deeper and richer typing experience may lean towards the Meteor Orange.
In terms of aesthetics, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow's polycarbonate top housing is translucent, making it a great choice for users who plan to use RGB lighting. This allows for a visually striking effect, especially when combined with colorful keycaps. On the other hand, the Meteor Orange's nylon top housing does not offer this translucency. Therefore, for users who prioritize visual customization and RGB lighting, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow may be the preferable option.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both switches again utilize nylon. As previously mentioned, nylon is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its ability to absorb more sound. Therefore, regardless of whether it is the G Pro 3.0 Yellow or the Meteor Orange, users can expect a similar sound experience when it comes to bottom-out typing sounds.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow and the SP-Star Meteor Orange ultimately comes down to personal preference. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow offers a clearer and more resonant sound profile with its polycarbonate top housing, while the Meteor Orange provides a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon top housing. Both switches share the common nylon bottom housing, ensuring a consistent deeper sound experience. As such, users should consider their desired sound profile and aesthetic preferences when making a decision between these two switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch and the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch, there are noticeable differences. The G Pro 3.0 Yellow has an actuation force of 50 grams, which means that a relatively light force is needed to trigger a keystroke. On the other hand, the actuation force of the Meteor Orange is unavailable, so it is difficult to determine how it compares in this regard. When it comes to the bottom out force, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow requires 67 grams of force, making it somewhat heavier. In contrast, the Meteor Orange has a bottom out force of 57 grams, which is comparatively lighter.
Considering the importance of weight, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may gravitate towards the Meteor Orange switch. This allows for comfortable typing over longer periods, making it suitable for extended work or gaming sessions. On the other hand, individuals seeking a more substantial push feel may find the G Pro 3.0 Yellow more appealing, as it offers a heavier bottom out force. This can provide a satisfying and tactile typing experience for those who prefer a stronger push. It's important to note that, without specific information on the Meteor Orange's actuation force, it is difficult to make a direct comparison in this aspect. However, if the actuation forces of both switches are similar, users can expect comparable results in terms of triggering a keystroke.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow 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 with either of these switches, you will feel a consistent 4 mm distance traveled. Both switches provide a responsive and satisfying typing experience with their equal travel distances, ensuring that you will receive similar results regardless of which switch you choose to use.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow has an MSRP of $3.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Yellow for $2.78.
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 Yellow switches offer a higher pitched clacky sound profile. These switches produce a sharp and crisp sound that may be preferable for those who do not enjoy richer and bassier sound profiles. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches have a neutral sound profile, meaning they offer a moderate sound with no extreme characteristics. This makes them suitable for a wide range of users, whether beginners or advanced typists, and can be used in various settings such as home or work. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches are described as having a polished feel. This indicates that these switches have a smooth and refined finish, leading to a sleek typing experience. The reduced friction and smooth key travel contribute to a seamless typing sensation. Additionally, the Yellow switches are described as creamy, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience. This could be due to factory lubing or specific materials used in the switch construction. Overall, typing on these switches feels polished and effortless.
On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange switches provide a mild typing experience. These switches offer a more gentle feel compared to switches with more pronounced characteristics. They fall into a safe middle-ground zone, making them approachable and comfortable for most users. Similar to the G Pro 3.0 Yellow switches, the Meteor Orange switches also have a polished feel. This means that they are smooth and refined, resulting in a sleek and frictionless typing experience. The combination of reduced friction and gentle tactile feedback creates a satisfying typing sensation.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switches stand out for their higher-pitched and clacky sound profile, as well as their polished and creamy feel. These budget-friendly switches offer an excellent linear typing experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switches excel in their soft and seductive tactility, neutral sound profile, and polished yet mild feel. Both switches provide different subjective qualities, allowing users to choose the one that aligns with their preferences. However, if a user is looking for a similar result in terms of sound and feel, they can expect a neutral and polished experience with both switches, while the Yellow switches offer a higher pitched clacky sound and a creamier typing feel compared to the Meteor Orange switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a budget-friendly option with a medium-heavy bottom out force, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Yellow linear switch is the way to go. These switches provide a higher pitched clacky sound profile and a fairly bouncy type feel, which can be quite enjoyable for typists. On the other hand, if you value a gentle tactile experience and a medium-light bottom out force, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch would be your best bet. These switches offer a soft and seductive tactility, along with a neutral sound profile. Additionally, the Meteor Orange switches provide a polished feel, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference, considering factors such as sound, feel, and budget.
Mentioned in this article
