SP-Star Meteor Orange vs. Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options stand out: the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3). The Meteor Orange is best known for its exquisitely gentle and seductive tactility, providing a soft typing experience accompanied by a neutral sound profile. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro is the epitome of a classic budget switch, boasting smoothness and an incredibly satisfying buttery feel. With its low, "thocky" sound and thick resistance, it excels in both gaming and typing scenarios, making it a versatile choice. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities, so you can ultimately decide on the best switch for your specific needs and preferences.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
50g
Bottom-out force
57g
Bottom-out force
62g
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
The housing materials of the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) are both made of nylon, which is a classic switch housing material. This means that they share similar characteristics in terms of sound profile. When typing on both switches, the use of nylon housing elicits a deeper and fuller sound, as nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound than harder plastics. This results in a duller and rounder sound, providing a satisfying typing experience for users of both switches. Therefore, it can be concluded that the housing materials of the Meteor Orange and the Milky Yellow Pro will deliver similar results in terms of sound.
However, it is important to note that if the top and bottom housings of a switch are different, the qualities brought by each housing material will be split between the top and the bottom of the switch. When pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing will have more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel. On the other hand, the top housing will play a greater role in the sound when releasing a key. This means that while the overall sound profile may be similar due to the nylon housing in both switches, the specific nuances in sound and feel may vary depending on the specific design choices of the top and bottom housings.
In terms of overall performance and user experience, both the SP-Star Meteor Orange and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) provide a solid typing experience due to their nylon housing materials. The nylon housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile, resulting in a more satisfying typing experience. However, since the materials are the same for both switches, it can be expected that the differences in sound and feel between the two will be minimal. The choice between the two switches may come down to other factors such as aesthetics, pricing, or personal preference in terms of switch weight or actuation force.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, there are some notable differences. The Meteor Orange switch has an unknown actuation force, making it difficult to determine its lightness or heaviness in this aspect. However, it has a bottom out force of 57 grams, which can be considered medium-light.
On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) switch has an actuation force of 50 grams, indicating a lighter force required to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, it measures at 62 grams, which is in the medium range.
Considering weight as a factor, those who prefer a lighter typing experience may find the Milky Yellow Pro switch more suitable. The lighter actuation force of 50 grams allows for a smoother and more effortless keystroke, making it ideal for longer typing sessions or extended gaming periods.
In contrast, the Meteor Orange switch, although with an unknown actuation force, offers a slightly heavier bottom out force at 57 grams. This provides a more substantial push feel, which some users may prefer for a more tactile and satisfying typing experience.
Overall, while the Milky Yellow Pro switch is lighter in terms of actuation force, resulting in a lighter typing experience, the Meteor Orange switch offers a slightly heavier bottom out force, providing a more substantial feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference and the desired typing or gaming experience.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch is the same as that of the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, both measuring 4 mm. Therefore, pressing down on a key with either of these switches will result in a similar travel experience.
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 Yellow Pro (KS-3) has an MSRP of $2.33 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Milky Yellow 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
In terms of sound, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch is best described as having a neutral sound profile. This means that it has a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for various purposes and skill levels. Additionally, it is characterized as having a thocky sound, producing a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch is known for its bassy sound, offering a deeper and richer sound profile during key presses. It also has a low-pitched tone, contributing to a more bass-heavy and mellow sound. Like the Meteor Orange, it also exhibits a thocky sound characteristic. However, it is important to note that the sound produced by a switch is influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen, so individual results may vary.
In terms of feel, the Meteor Orange tactile switch provides a mild typing experience with a gentle touch. It offers a more approachable typing experience, as its qualities fall within a safe middle-ground zone. Additionally, it is described as having a polished finish, resulting in a smooth and refined typing experience. The Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch, on the other hand, is known for its buttery feel, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience. It offers a seamless and effortless typing sensation. However, some users may prefer a textured (or scratchy) switch, which has noticeable friction when pressed. Preferences for texture can vary among users, with some preferring a subtle texture and others desiring a smoother, friction-free typing experience.
Taking into account the available information, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch and the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) linear switch offer contrasting experiences in terms of sound and feel. The Meteor Orange has a neutral sound profile with a thocky characteristic, providing a moderate and satisfying sound. It offers a mild typing experience with a polished finish, resulting in a refined and smooth feel. On the other hand, the Milky Yellow Pro offers a bassy and thocky sound profile with a low-pitched tone. It provides a buttery feel, delivering a smooth and fluid typing experience. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique qualities that cater to different preferences and needs. However, it is important to consider additional factors such as personal typing style, keyboard setup, and keycap choice to achieve the desired sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a softer and more seductive tactility, coupled with a neutral sound profile, the SP-Star Meteor Orange tactile switch would be the ideal choice for you. With its medium-light bottom out force of 57 grams, these switches provide a gentle typing experience suitable for both beginners and advanced users, whether at home or in a work environment. On the other hand, if you're looking for a budget-friendly all-rounder linear switch that excels in both gaming and typing, the Gateron Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) is perfect. With its medium bottom out force of 62 grams and a satisfyingly thick resistance, these switches offer a smooth and "thocky" sound, making them versatile for different purposes. Ultimately, your decision should consider your preference for sound and feel, as the Meteor Orange offers a softer and more polished experience, while the Milky Yellow Pro (KS-3) provides a buttery and textured typing sensation.
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