Durock Black Lotus vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red
An in-depth look at the Durock Black Lotus and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options are the Durock Black Lotus and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red. The Black Lotus is well-known for its silky smooth feel and unparalleled precision, reducing housing and stem wobble for maximum typing pleasure. With a substantial 55g actuation weight, it strikes the perfect balance between heft and ease of use. Additionally, the unique light column provides in-switch lighting that can be fully removed, allowing for customization options. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Red from Gateron's G Pro line-up offers a budget-friendly linear switch that delivers a smooth typing experience. With a medium-light actuation force, it strikes a balance between responsiveness and ease of use. The frosted light diffuser of the G Pro Red allows for brighter and more vibrant RGB lighting effects, while its medium-high pitch provides a satisfying auditory experience. Both switches offer their own advantages, but 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
55g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
63.5g
Bottom-out force
50g
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
Modified PC & UPE Blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Gold-plated
Spring
20.5mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Durock Black Lotus and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switches have distinct characteristics that contribute to their overall performance. Both switches feature a top housing made of a modified PC blend and polycarbonate, respectively. The modified PC & UPE Blend housing of the Black Lotus provides a unique and premium feel, while the polycarbonate top housing of the G Pro 3.0 Red creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. Additionally, the translucency of the polycarbonate makes it ideal for RGB lighting, enhancing the visual appeal of the switch. Despite these differences, both top housings offer durability and a satisfying typing experience.
Moving on to the bottom housing, both switches utilize nylon as the material of choice. The nylon bottom housing of the Black Lotus and the G Pro 3.0 Red elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile, thanks to its softer and more sound-absorbent nature. This characteristic creates a duller and rounder sound when typing on switches using nylon. Consequently, the bottom housing has a significant influence on the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, adding to the typing experience.
In summary, while the Black Lotus and the G Pro 3.0 Red switches have different top housings – a modified PC & UPE Blend and polycarbonate, respectively – they both deliver durability and a premium feel. The Black Lotus offers a unique and luxurious tactile experience, while the G Pro 3.0 Red provides a sharper and crisper sound profile, particularly when releasing a key. On the other hand, their nylon bottom housings contribute to a deeper and fuller sound, creating a more rounded typing experience. Ultimately, regardless of the differences, both switches excel in their performance and offer satisfying results.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch, there are noticeable differences. The Black Lotus has a slightly heavier actuation force of 55 grams compared to the G Pro 3.0 Red's 45 grams. This means that the Black Lotus requires a bit more force to trigger a keystroke. In terms of bottom out force, the Black Lotus is also slightly heavier with a force of 63.5 grams compared to the G Pro 3.0 Red's 50 grams. Therefore, when typing on the Black Lotus, users can expect a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel. However, if a lighter switch is preferred for more extended typing or gaming sessions, the G Pro 3.0 Red would be a better choice. Despite the differences in force, both switches offer a medium to light actuation and bottom out force, respectively, making them suitable for various typing preferences.
Travel distance
The Durock Black Lotus linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key equipped with either of these switches, you will feel a consistent 4 mm of travel. Both switches provide a similar typing experience in terms of the distance the switch travels from the top to the bottom. Therefore, you can expect comparable results in terms of key press feedback and tactile feel when using either the Durock Black Lotus or the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switches.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Durock Black Lotus has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Black Lotus for $4.57.
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red 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 Red 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
In terms of sound, the information provided does not specify the sound profile of the Durock Black Lotus switch. However, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red switch is described as having a neutral sound profile. A neutral switch means that it has a moderate sound profile suitable for most purposes, whether you are a beginner or advanced user, and whether you plan to use the switch at home or work. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the choice of keyboard and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, both switches offer a silky and smooth typing experience. The Black Lotus switch is described as silky, buttery, mild, and polished. This indicates that it offers an exceptionally smooth keystroke, minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys, and has a refined finish for sleek typing experience. Similarly, the G Pro 3.0 Red switch is also described as creamy, mild, polished, and silky. These descriptors suggest that the G Pro Red switch provides a smooth, buttery typing experience, with reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Based on the available information, both switches offer a similar experience in terms of sound and feel. Both switches are described as having a smooth and refined typing experience, minimizing resistance and providing a silky sensation when typing. The G Pro 3.0 Red switch is budget-friendly, making it an attractive choice for those looking for a good linear switch without breaking the bank. Overall, whether you choose the Durock Black Lotus or the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red, you can expect a satisfying typing experience with smoothness and minimal resistance.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you prioritize a medium-heavy bottom out force and value the unique light column feature, the Durock Black Lotus linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. These switches offer a silky smooth feel and unparalleled precision, reducing housing and stem wobble for maximum typing pleasure. With a substantial 55g actuation weight, they strike a balance between responsiveness and comfort. On the other hand, if you prefer a light bottom out force and want to elevate your typing performance without breaking the bank, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Red linear switch is a budget-friendly option. These switches provide a smooth typing experience with their medium-light actuation force, and their frosted light diffuser allows for brighter and more vibrant RGB lighting effects. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on your preferences for bottom out force, light column feature, and budget.
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