SP-Star Meteor Orange vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) offer unique features catering to different preferences. The Meteor Orange switch is praised for its gentle tactility and neutral sound profile, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a softer typing experience. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro switch stands out for its affordability and smooth, buttery keystrokes that produce a pleasing low-pitched "thock" sound. While the Meteor Orange switch leans towards a tactile typing experience, the Milky Red Pro switch provides a linear feel. 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
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
52g
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
Nylon
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3), it is evident that both switches utilize nylon for their top and bottom housings. This choice of material results in a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing on either switch, as nylon is known for its ability to absorb sound and create a duller, rounder sound compared to harder plastics. The similar use of nylon in both switches ensures that users can expect a consistent typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
Despite both switches using nylon for their housing materials, there may be slight differences in the sound profile produced by the top and bottom housings of each switch. The qualities of the housing material are distributed between the top and bottom of the switch, with the bottom housing having a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. This may result in subtle variations in the typing experience between the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3), as the distribution of the nylon material can influence the overall sound profile of each key press.
Overall, the choice to use nylon for both the top and bottom housings of the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) ensures a consistent typing experience in terms of sound profile and feel. While there may be nuanced differences in the impact of the housing material on the overall sound of each switch, users can expect a similar typing experience when using either switch. The use of nylon as a housing material highlights the importance of material selection in creating a specific sound profile and tactile feel for mechanical switches, catering to the preferences of users who value these aspects in their typing experience.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch differ slightly. The Meteor Orange has no specified actuation force and a bottom out force of 57 grams, making it medium-light in terms of typing pressure. In contrast, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) has an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 52 grams, also falling in the medium-light category. In terms of weight, both switches are fairly similar, with the Milky Red Pro having a slightly lighter actuation force. For those who prefer a lighter touch for longer typing sessions or gaming, the Milky Red Pro might be the better choice. However, for those looking for a bit more resistance and feedback in their typing experience, the SP-Star Meteor Orange could be the more suitable option. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
Both the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance of travel from the top to the bottom. As a result, both switches offer a consistent typing experience in terms of keypress depth. So, whether you're using the Meteor Orange tactile switch or the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, you can expect similar results in terms of travel distance. This makes them both suitable options for individuals looking for a standard keypress depth in their mechanical keyboards.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
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.
The Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) has an MSRP of $2.61 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) for $2.30.
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, the SP-Star Meteor Orange switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch both have a "thocky" quality to their sound profile, providing a deep and satisfying noise when pressed. However, the Meteor Orange switch is described as having a more neutral sound profile, suitable for a range of users and environments, while the Milky Red Pro switch offers a bassier and lower-pitched sound, adding a richness to the typing experience. Both switches will offer a pleasing auditory experience, with the Milky Red Pro likely providing a bit more depth in tone.
Moving on to feel, the Meteor Orange switch is known for its mild tactility, offering a gentle typing experience that is approachable to most users. Additionally, the switch is described as polished, providing a smooth and refined finish that enhances the overall typing sensation. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch is coined as "buttery", indicating a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is seamless and effortless. While both switches offer a comfortable typing experience, the Milky Red Pro switch may provide a slightly smoother feel due to its buttery nature.
In conclusion, both the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Meteor Orange switch excels in its soft and seductive tactility, paired with a neutral sound profile, making it suitable for a wide range of users. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro switch stands out for its smooth and affordable typing experience, featuring a bassier and thocky sound profile that adds a level of richness to the typing sensation. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference in terms of sound profile and typing feel, but both options are sure to provide a satisfying typing experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, consider the following guidelines. Opt for the Meteor Orange if you prefer a slightly higher bottom out force of 57 grams and enjoy a gentle and soft tactility with a neutral sound profile. Additionally, if you appreciate a polished and mild typing experience, the Meteor Orange is a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lower bottom out force of 52 grams and desire a smooth and affordable typing experience with a pleasing low-pitched "thock" sound, then the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is the way to go. The Milky Red Pro (KS-3) offers a buttery keystroke sensation that is seamless and effortless. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferences for bottom out force, tactility, sound profile, and typing experience.
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