Gateron Aliaz vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron Aliaz and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron Aliaz and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown mechanical keyboard switches, both of which are tactile switches, there are some key differences to consider. The Aliaz switch is tailored for quiet environments such as the office, offering a medium-heavy weight for a substantial keystroke feel and pronounced typing feedback without the noise. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Brown is known for its budget-friendly option that doesn't compromise on quality, providing a gentle bump in tactile sensation that won't disrupt your typing flow. With a frosted light diffuser for enhanced RGB lighting and a satisfying auditory feedback, the G Pro 3.0 Brown adds an extra layer of joy to typing sessions. 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
60g
Actuation force
55g
Bottom-out force
75g
Bottom-out force
63g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The Gateron Aliaz and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown both feature a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the relatively stiffer nature of polycarbonate, leading to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting. However, while both switches share this top housing material, the bottom housings differ. The Aliaz features a polycarbonate bottom housing, while the G Pro 3.0 Brown has a nylon bottom housing. This variation results in a different typing experience, with nylon providing a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer nature.
In terms of housing materials, the Gateron Aliaz and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown showcase the impact that different plastics can have on the overall sound and feel of a switch. While both switches have a polycarbonate top housing for a sharp and resonant sound profile, the Aliaz's polycarbonate bottom housing maintains this consistent feel, while the G Pro 3.0 Brown's nylon bottom housing offers a deeper and fuller sound thanks to its softer nature. The switch's bottom housing has a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key.
In summary, the choice of housing material plays a crucial role in the overall typing experience of a switch. Both the Aliaz and the G Pro 3.0 Brown utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, resulting in a sharp and clear sound profile that is perfect for RGB lighting. However, the difference in bottom housing material, with the Aliaz featuring polycarbonate and the G Pro 3.0 Brown featuring nylon, leads to variations in sound and feel. Understanding the impact of different housing materials allows users to choose a switch that aligns with their preferences for sound profile and typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch, it is apparent that the Aliaz is the heavier option with an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 75 grams, while the G Pro 3.0 Brown is the lighter option with an actuation force of 55 grams and a bottom out force of 63 grams. This means that the Aliaz requires more force to trigger a keystroke and to bottom out compared to the G Pro 3.0 Brown. Those who prefer a substantial typing experience may opt for the Aliaz, while those looking for a lighter typing feel for longer periods may choose the G Pro 3.0 Brown. Both switches offer different levels of resistance, catering to the preferences of different users. Ultimately, the actuation and bottom out forces play a significant role in determining the typing experience and feel of each switch.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, users will experience the same amount of travel distance. The similarity in travel distance between these two switches ensures that users will get a consistent typing experience regardless of which switch they choose. Overall, the travel distance of both the Gateron Aliaz and G Pro 3.0 Brown switches is the same, offering users a familiar feel when typing.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron Aliaz has an MSRP of $8.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Aliaz for $5.50.
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown has an MSRP of $2.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Brown for $2.77.
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 Gateron Aliaz is known for producing a muted sound, making it ideal for quiet office environments where noise is a concern. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown offers a medium-high pitch sound that adds an extra layer of joy to your typing sessions. Both switches provide different auditory feedback, with the Aliaz focusing on minimizing noise and the G Pro Brown offering a more satisfying sound experience, depending on personal preference and your setup.
In terms of feel, the Gateron Aliaz offers a silky and polished typing experience, emphasizing smoothness and reduced friction for an overall refined feel. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown provides an easy-to-press and mild tactile sensation, with gentle resistance that minimizes finger fatigue during extended typing sessions. Additionally, the G Pro Brown has a stepped feel, offering a more nuanced keystroke experience with distinct pre-travel and post-travel stages. Both switches provide a tactile sensation, but the Aliaz leans towards smoothness and refinement while the G Pro Brown focuses on ease of typing and a gentle tactile bump.
In conclusion, the Gateron Aliaz and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown switches offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The Aliaz excels in providing a quiet and substantial typing experience with a focus on smoothness and reduced noise, making it suitable for office environments. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Brown offers an economical solution without compromising quality, with a focus on gentle tactile feedback and a satisfying sound experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on whether you prioritize a quiet and refined typing experience (Aliaz) or a more tactile and subtly satisfying typing feel (G Pro 3.0 Brown).
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron Aliaz tactile switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Brown tactile switch, consider your typing environment and personal preferences. If you are looking for a switch tailored for a quiet office setting with a medium-heavy weight for a pronounced typing feedback, the Aliaz switch may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a budget-friendly switch with a delightful and subtle tactile sensation, easy-to-press keys, and a medium-high pitch for a satisfying auditory feedback, the G Pro 3.0 Brown may suit your needs better. Ultimately, the decision comes down to whether you prioritize a quiet typing experience with a substantial feel or a more economical option with a gentle bump and enhanced typing flow.