SP-Star Meteor White vs. Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3)
An in-depth look at the SP-Star Meteor White and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare are the SP-Star Meteor White and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3), both of which are linear switches. The Meteor White is celebrated for its gentle linear feel, making it easy to push with a soft sound profile that is best described as pitter-patter. On the other hand, the Milky Red Pro switches are praised for their smooth keystrokes and budget-friendly price, offering a buttery smooth typing experience with a low-pitched "thock" sound. While both switches aim to provide a pleasant typing experience, the Meteor White leans towards a subtle, neutral sound, while the Milky Red Pro captures a bassier tone. 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
Gold plated
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The housing materials of the SP-Star Meteor White and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) are both made of nylon, which is known for producing a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. The relatively softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound than harder plastics, resulting in a duller and rounder sound overall. This means that both switches will likely have a similar typing experience in terms of sound and feel.
However, it's important to note that even though both switches have nylon top and bottom housings, the specific design and construction of these housings may differ between the two models. This could result in subtle differences in sound and feel when typing on each switch. The bottom housing of a switch typically has more of an impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. These differences in housing design may lead to slight variations in the overall typing experience between the Meteor White and Milky Red Pro (KS-3).
Overall, while the SP-Star Meteor White and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) both feature nylon housing materials that offer similar sound profiles, the specific design of each switch's housing may influence the typing experience in subtle ways. It's essential to consider these potential differences in housing construction when deciding between the two switches, as they may impact your preferences for key feel and sound. Ultimately, testing out both switches side by side may be the best way to determine which one aligns more closely with your typing preferences.
Weight
Both the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch have relatively light actuation forces, with the Milky Red Pro being slightly lighter at 45 grams compared to the Meteor White's unknown force. However, when it comes to the bottom out force, the Meteor White requires 57 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Milky Red Pro's 52 grams. While both switches provide a medium-light typing experience, the Meteor White offers a slightly firmer feel due to its higher bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Milky Red Pro, while those who enjoy a bit more resistance may opt for the Meteor White for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the different actuation and bottom out forces cater to individual preferences for typing or gaming comfort.
Travel distance
Both the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This similarity ensures that users can expect consistent typing experiences with both switches in terms of travel distance. Overall, the travel distance of these switches is identical, so users can expect similar results regardless of which one they choose.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The SP-Star Meteor White has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Meteor White 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
In terms of sound, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch offers a neutral and thocky sound profile which is suitable for various typing environments. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch provides a bassy, thocky, and low-pitched sound that gives off a deep and rich typing experience. The Meteor White switch offers a more moderate sound, while the Milky Red Pro switch leans towards a deeper, bass-heavy tone during key presses. Keep in mind that the actual sound produced can also be influenced by other factors like the keyboard and keycaps being used.
When it comes to the feel of the switches, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch is known for its mild and polished typing experience. These switches offer a gentle and approachable feel, with a smooth and refined finish for a sleek typing sensation. On the other hand, the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch is described as buttery, providing a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that is seamless, effortless, and uniform. Both switches aim to offer a comfortable typing feel, with the Meteor White being more mild and polished, whereas the Milky Red Pro emphasizes a buttery smoothness for an enjoyable typing experience.
In conclusion, the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch both offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the Meteor White provides a softer and more subdued typing experience with a gentle pitter-patter sound profile, the Milky Red Pro offers a smooth and buttery typing sensation paired with a pleasing low-pitched "thock" sound. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound profile, typing feel, and overall typing experience. However, both switches are designed to offer a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience for users.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the SP-Star Meteor White linear switch and the Gateron Milky Red Pro (KS-3) linear switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a gentle, subdued typing experience with a soft sound profile, the Meteor White may be the best choice for you. It offers a neutral sound and a mild feel, providing a comfortable typing experience suitable for various purposes. On the other hand, if you are looking for a smooth and affordable option with a buttery keystroke and a low-pitched "thock" sound, the Milky Red Pro (KS-3) switch would be the ideal pick. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preference for typing feel and sound profile. Choose the switch that aligns with your typing style and preferences for the best overall experience.
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