Huano Acacia vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red

Overview

When choosing a mechanical keyboard, the type of switch can greatly influence your overall typing experience. The Huano Acacia, a linear switch, is well-regarded for its medium-light weight and generous factory lubrication, offering users an exceptional typing feel straight out of the box with minimal stem wobble. This makes it an excellent option for those who prioritize smooth keystrokes and a comfortable touch without any additional setup. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch stands out as a budget-friendly option from Gateron’s G Pro lineup, designed to deliver a seamless typing experience with a similar medium-light actuation force. What makes the G Pro Red particularly appealing is its frosted light diffuser, which enhances RGB lighting visibility, alongside a satisfying auditory feedback thanks to its medium-high pitch. Both switches cater to those seeking smooth performance, but the choice between them may ultimately come down to preference for aesthetics versus tactile sensation. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.

By the numbers

Huano Acacia Linear

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red Linear

$3.39 per 10

$2.80

$2.77 per 10

Learn moreLearn more

Housing materials

The Huano Acacia and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switches both utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, leading to comparable sound characteristics. As polycarbonate is a stiff material, both switches exhibit a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This shared trait enhances the auditory feedback of each keypress, making them appealing to typists and gamers who appreciate a clear and resonant tone. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate allows for effective RGB lighting, illuminating the switches beautifully and complementing any aesthetic choice a user may desire. This shared top housing material results in similarities that cater to lighting and sound preferences in mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.

Conversely, while both switches use nylon for the bottom housing, the resulting sound profiles differ somewhat due to the inherent qualities of the materials. Nylon is recognized for its softer composition, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound when typing. In this context, both the Huano Acacia and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red share a similar foundational sound feel; however, the character of their sound profiles may vary when considering the overall experience. The bottom housing, being more influential in the bottom-out sound when a key is pressed, imparts a rounder sound quality that differs from the sharpness of the polycarbonate top. The combination of these materials leads to a diverse auditory experience, merging the crispness from the polycarbonate top with the depth from the nylon bottom.

Ultimately, the interaction between the polycarbonate top and nylon bottom housings in both switches creates a unique keyboard experience. The sonic qualities of each housing material influence the overall sound and feel of the switches, allowing users to enjoy a blend of resonant sharpness and deep warmth. For those looking for a cohesive typing experience, selecting either the Huano Acacia or the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red will yield similar overall performance thanks to their shared polycarbonate top housing, while the differences in the bottom housing will cater to individual sound preferences, making either option a viable choice for mechanical keyboard users.

Weight

When comparing the Huano Acacia linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch, both switches feature the same actuation force of 45 grams, indicating that users can expect a similar experience when triggering each keystroke. However, their bottom out forces differ; the Acacia requires a bottom out force of 55 grams, while the G Pro 3.0 Red has a lighter bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that while the actuation pressure is equal, the Acacia switch provides a heavier resistance when fully pressed down, resulting in a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer it. Thus, the Acacia switch is overall heavier compared to the G Pro 3.0 Red, which is lighter and may be more suitable for users who favor longer typing sessions or gaming without the strain of additional force.

Travel distance

When comparing the travel distances of the Huano Acacia linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch, a clear distinction emerges. The Huano Acacia boasts a travel distance of 3.5 mm, making it the shorter of the two, while the G Pro 3.0 Red features a travel distance of 4 mm, positioning it as the longer option. This difference means that users seeking faster response times, such as gamers, might favor the Acacia for its more responsive feel. Conversely, those who appreciate a more substantial typing experience may prefer the G Pro 3.0 Red, which offers a deeper travel distance. Ultimately, while both switches cater to different preferences, the Acacia’s shorter travel may be more suitable for users prioritizing speed, whereas the G Pro 3.0 Red could be ideal for those relishing a traditional keystroke depth.

Price comparison

Typing experience

The sound profile of the Huano Acacia linear switch is not explicitly detailed, leaving its auditory characteristics somewhat ambiguous. However, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch is characterized by a neutral sound profile. This neutrality means that the G Pro Red’s sound level is moderate, making it suitable for various environments, whether at home or in a professional setting. The G Pro Red’s sound may be pleasant enough for both beginners and experienced users, while the Acacia's lack of sound information suggests it may be similar but without specific descriptors to define its character.

When it comes to feel, the Huano Acacia switch boasts a medium-light weight and minimal stem wobble, allowing for a consistent typing experience enhanced by generous factory lubrication. This lubrication is key to achieving a smooth and enjoyable experience right out of the box. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Red switch offers a range of tactile qualities, including a creamy, mild, polished, and silky typing experience. The factory lubrication in the G Pro Red contributes to its smoothness, making your fingers glide effortlessly across the keys. While the Acacia provides a reliable and refined feel, the G Pro Red combines various smooth experiences that cater to a wider range of user preferences.

In summary, both the Huano Acacia and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switches aim to deliver a satisfying typing experience, but they do so in different ways. The G Pro Red boasts a neutral sound profile and a rich tactile feel with multiple smooth characteristics, while the Acacia’s strengths lie in its quality factory lubrication and minimal wobble, though its sound remains unspecified. Choosing between the two will likely boil down to personal preference in auditory feedback and the desired tactile sensation, but each switch promises an enjoyable typing experience in its own right.

Conclusion

To conclude, when choosing between the Huano Acacia linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch, consider your specific preferences and typing style. If you prefer a slightly heavier and more deliberate feel with a bottom out force of 55 grams, the Acacia switch may be your best bet. Its medium-light weight combined with generous factory lubrication and minimal stem wobble ensures an impressive typing experience right out of the box, making it a fantastic choice for typists who value a refined touch. On the other hand, if you are looking for a lighter, more responsive switch that requires a lower actuation force of 50 grams, then the G Pro 3.0 Red is likely to be more suitable. Its creamy and polished feel offers a smooth and effortless typing experience, enhanced by its ability to deliver vibrant RGB lighting effects with its frosted light diffuser. In summary, choose the Acacia for a slightly heavier touch and a refined typing experience, and opt for the G Pro 3.0 Red for a lightweight, budget-friendly option that provides a creamy, neutral feel suitable for both beginners and seasoned users.

Mentioned in this article

Huano Acacia Linear

$3.39 per 10

Learn more

Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red Linear

$2.80

$2.77 per 10

Learn more