Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. Gateron G Pro 3.0 White
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White mechanical keyboard switches, you are presented with two distinct options catering to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Black is ideal for those seeking a more substantial typing experience, thanks to its heavier 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force, making it a popular choice for individuals who prefer a medium-heavy feel. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 White is tailored for those who appreciate a lighter touch, with an actuation force of only 38g, allowing for effortless and sensitive keystrokes. Both switches feature a frosted light diffuser for enhanced RGB lighting effects and provide a medium-high pitch auditory feedback. 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
38g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
45g
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
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
20mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and White switches both offer unique housing materials that contribute to their individual sound profiles. The G Pro 3.0 Black features a proprietary INK blend top housing, creating a thin and higher-pitched sound that is often described as clacky. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 White utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, known for its sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This difference in top housing materials leads to distinct auditory experiences for users of each switch.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the G Pro 3.0 Black utilizes a POM bottom housing that creates a deep and muted sound profile. This contrasts with the G Pro 3.0 White's nylon bottom housing, which produces a fuller and rounder sound. The choice of bottom housing material impacts the overall sound and feel of the switch when pressed down, with POM offering a unique sound profile compared to the nylon bottom housing of the White variant.
While the top and bottom housing materials differ between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and White switches, the unique qualities of each material are split between the top and bottom of the switch. The bottom housing material has a greater impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when a key is pressed, while the top housing material influences the sound when a key is released. Despite these differences, both switches offer high-quality housing materials that cater to different preferences in terms of sound profile and tactile feedback.
Weight
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch features a higher actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In comparison, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a lighter option. The difference in weight between the two switches is significant, with the Black switch requiring more force to actuate and bottom out compared to the White switch. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation and bottom out forces of the White switch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may appreciate the heavier feel of the Black switch for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same level of travel distance. As a result, you can expect similar results in terms of keypress feedback and typing experience between the two switches. So, whether you choose the Black or White version, you can enjoy the same level of key travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black 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 Black for $2.77.
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White 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 White for $3.27.
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, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and White switches offer a clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy auditory feedback when pressed. The difference lies in the Black switch having a more subdued sound compared to the White switch, which offers a more neutral sound profile. However, it's important to note that the sound a switch produces can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switch is praised for its creamy and silky typing experience, providing a smooth and buttery sensation with each keystroke. In contrast, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switch offers an easy-to-press and feathery feel, requiring minimal force to activate and reducing finger fatigue during long typing sessions. Both switches exhibit a subtle typing feel, ensuring a gentle resistance and a light touch suitable for various typing preferences.
In conclusion, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and White linear switches differ slightly in sound and feel characteristics, they both excel in providing a premium typing experience at an affordable price point. Whether you prefer a heavier and more subdued sound with a creamier feel, or a lighter and more neutral sound with an easy-to-press sensation, both switches offer excellent options for different typing preferences. Ultimately, choosing between the two will depend on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch or the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a heavier typing experience with a medium-heavy feel, then the G Pro 3.0 Black with its 70g bottom out force may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch with a gentle and effortless typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 White with its 45g bottom out force would be more suitable. Additionally, if you enjoy a more clacky sound profile, both switches offer that option. Ultimately, the choice between the G Pro 3.0 Black and White switches will depend on your preference for typing feel, sound profile, and actuation force.
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