Outemu Crystal vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver
An in-depth look at the Outemu Crystal and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options to consider are the Outemu Crystal and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver. The Crystal switches are best known for their elastic feel and medium-light weight, offering a unique linear typing experience. They also provide a neutral sound profile when typing. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switches from Gateron's budget-friendly lineup are designed specifically for gaming. With a shorter travel distance of 3.4mm, compared to the standard 4mm, these switches offer lightning-fast responsiveness, giving gamers a competitive advantage. Additionally, the G Pro Silver switches feature vibrant RGB lighting and a medium-high pitch for an exhilarating auditory experience. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond these generalities, so you can determine the best switch for your specific needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
55g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The housing materials of the Outemu Crystal and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver share many similarities. Both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Polycarbonate is known for its stiffness, which creates a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate is perfect for RGB lighting, making it a preferred choice for those who want to add visual flair to their keyboards.
On the other hand, the bottom housings of these switches differ. The Crystal's polycarbonate bottom housing offers similar sound characteristics to its top housing. However, the G Pro 3.0 Silver features a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. Nylon is a softer plastic that absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. When pressing down on the switch, the qualities of the bottom housing become noticeable, as it affects the bottom-out sound and feel.
Overall, while both switches feature polycarbonate top housings with similar sound profiles, the difference lies in the bottom housings. The Outemu Crystal maintains its polycarbonate material throughout both the top and bottom, whereas the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver combines a polycarbonate top with a nylon bottom. The choice between the two depends on personal preferences for sound and feel, as well as the desired aesthetics of the keyboard setup.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch, some similarities and differences can be observed. Both switches have the same actuation force of 45 grams, meaning that the force required to trigger a keystroke is identical for both. This ensures that users will experience a consistent and responsive typing experience regardless of which switch they choose.
However, when it comes to the bottom out force, there is a distinction between the two switches. The Outemu Crystal has a bottom out force of 55 grams, making it slightly heavier than the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver, which has a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that users who prefer a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel may lean towards the Outemu Crystal, as it requires slightly more force to fully press the keys.
On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver provides a lighter bottom out force, making it more suitable for those who prefer a lighter switch. This can be beneficial for individuals who type for extended periods or engage in long gaming sessions, as the lighter force allows for reduced finger fatigue and increased comfort during prolonged use.
Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Crystal and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver depends on individual preferences. If a user desires a medium-light switch with a slightly heavier bottom out force, the Outemu Crystal would be a suitable option. Conversely, individuals seeking a lighter switch with a smoother and more comfortable typing experience may prefer the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch is the same, with both switches having a travel distance of 4 mm. Therefore, when pressing down on a key equipped with either switch, users can expect to feel a consistent 4 mm of travel distance. In terms of this specific feature, both switches offer similar results and can provide a comparable typing experience in terms of key depth and tactile feedback. Whether using the Outemu Crystal or the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver, users can enjoy the same level of key travel distance while typing or gaming.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver has an MSRP of $3.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 Silver for $3.27.
The Outemu Crystal comes in at $3.40 per 10 switches.
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 Outemu Crystal linear switch offers a unique acoustic experience. These switches have a chirpy sound, adding a distinct squeak during key presses. Additionally, they are described as high-pitched, producing a sharp and crisp sound. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch provides a different auditory experience. These switches are described as bassy and low-pitched, offering a deeper and richer sound profile with a lower frequency range. They are also characterized as thocky, producing a deep and satisfying sound. It is important to keep in mind that the sound of a switch can be influenced by other factors like the chosen keyboard and keycaps. Overall, the Crystal and G Pro 3.0 Silver switches offer contrasting sound profiles, with the Crystal being chirpy and high-pitched, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver is bassy, low-pitched, and thocky.
In terms of feel, the Outemu Crystal linear switch provides a polished typing experience. This means that the switch has a smooth and refined finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. The feel is described as elastic, providing a unique linear typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch offers a buttery and creamy typing sensation. These switches are smooth and fluid, offering a seamless and effortless keystroke experience. They provide a uniform typing sensation, with each keystroke effortlessly melting into the next. The Crystal switch focuses on a polished and elastic feel, while the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch prioritizes a buttery and creamy sensation.
In conclusion, the Outemu Crystal and Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switches differ in their subjective qualities. The Crystal switch offers a chirpy, high-pitched sound profile and a polished, elastic feel. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch provides a bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound profile, along with a buttery and creamy typing sensation. Both switches offer unique experiences that cater to different preferences. Depending on the desired sound and feel, users can choose between the Crystal or G Pro 3.0 Silver switches to achieve their desired typing or gaming experience. However, keep in mind that the sound and feel of a switch can vary based on other factors such as the chosen keyboard and keycaps.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a unique and linear typing experience with a medium-light weight, the Outemu Crystal linear switch is a great choice. These switches provide an elastic feel and a neutral sound profile when typing. On the other hand, if you are primarily focused on gaming and want lightning-fast responsiveness, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch is the way to go. With a shorter travel distance and vibrant RGB lighting, these switches offer an exceptional gaming experience without breaking the bank.
In terms of sound, the Crystal switch has a chirpy and high-pitched sound profile, adding a distinct acoustic element to your typing experience. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch offers a bassy, low-pitched, and thocky sound profile, providing a deep and rich auditory experience during gaming sessions.
When it comes to feel, the Crystal switch is polished, resulting in a sleek and refined typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch is described as buttery and creamy, offering a smooth and fluid keystroke experience that feels effortless and uniform.
Ultimately, the choice between the Outemu Crystal linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Silver linear switch depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize a unique typing experience with a medium-light weight, go with the Crystal switch. If you are more focused on gaming and want lightning-fast responsiveness and vibrant RGB lighting, the G Pro 3.0 Silver switch is the better option. Consider both the sound and feel characteristics and make a decision based on what you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
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