Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. Durock Ice King Tactile
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Durock Ice King Tactile switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Durock Ice King Tactile offer distinct typing experiences for users. The G Pro 3.0 Black stands out as a linear switch, known for its heavy actuation and bottom-out force that provides a satisfying typing feel. On the other hand, the Ice King Tactile offers a tactile switch experience, combining smoothness with a pronounced tactile bump for a unique typing sensation. While the G Pro 3.0 Black appeals to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience, the Ice King Tactile caters to individuals seeking a blend of smoothness and tactility. 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
58g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
68g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.50 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Nylon
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Gold-plated progressive long spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Durock Ice King Tactile switches both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The G Pro 3.0 Black incorporates a proprietary INK blend top housing that results in a pointed and higher-pitched sound, while the Ice King Tactile utilizes a nylon top housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound. In terms of bottom housing, the G Pro 3.0 Black employs a POM material that creates a unique and muted sound, whereas the Ice King Tactile utilizes nylon for its softer and more absorbing properties.
Despite their differences in housing materials, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Durock Ice King Tactile switches both aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with their unique sound profiles. The G Pro 3.0 Black's INK blend top housing delivers a clacky and sharp sound, while the Ice King Tactile's nylon top housing offers a deeper and rounder sound. Additionally, the POM bottom housing of the G Pro 3.0 Black contributes to a deeper and more muted sound, while the Ice King Tactile's nylon bottom housing enhances the fuller sound profile of the switch.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Durock Ice King Tactile switches comes down to personal preference in sound profile. Both switches offer a unique typing experience due to their distinct housing materials. Whether you prefer a sharper and clacky sound from the G Pro 3.0 Black or a deeper and fuller sound from the Ice King Tactile, these switches provide a variety of options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts looking to customize their typing experience.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch, it is clear that the G Pro 3.0 Black is slightly heavier with an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams compared to the Ice King Tactile's actuation force of 58 grams and bottom out force of 68 grams. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category, providing a balance between a light and heavy typing experience. The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black offers a slightly heavier typing feel, which can be preferred by those seeking a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Durock Ice King Tactile provides a slightly lighter touch, making it suitable for longer typing sessions or extended gaming periods. Both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, with the differences in force catering to individual preferences for typing intensity.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch, it is evident that the G Pro 3.0 Black has a longer travel distance of 4 mm compared to the 3.5 mm travel distance of the Ice King Tactile. The difference may seem minimal, but it can impact the overall typing experience. The G Pro 3.0 Black offers a slightly deeper keypress, providing a more satisfying tactile feedback, while the Ice King Tactile offers a quicker and more responsive keypress due to its shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference; if you prefer a deeper keypress, the G Pro 3.0 Black may be the better option, but if you prioritize speed and responsiveness, the Ice King Tactile would be more suitable.
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 Durock Ice King Tactile has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ice King Tactile for $4.20.
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, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch are described as subdued, offering a more subtle sound signature compared to other switches. This means that they are not completely silent but provide a dampened sound when pressed. However, the final sound experienced may also depend on other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch is characterized by its creamy and silky typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery sensation with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys. In contrast, the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch boasts a silky and frictionless feel, providing an exceptionally smooth and effortless typing experience with reduced friction and refined key travel. The Ice King Tactile switch also features a stepped design, adding a unique tactile element to the typing experience.
In conclusion, while both switches offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch focuses on a medium-heavy linear feel with a clacky sound, while the Durock Ice King Tactile tactile switch excels in providing a satisfying tactile typing experience with a subdued sound. Depending on your preference for linear or tactile switches, you can expect a premium typing experience with either option, with similar results in terms of sound and feel quality. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will come down to personal preference and the specific typing experience you are looking to achieve.
Conclusion
In summary, if you are a typist who values a medium-heavy typing experience with a balanced feel and a more audible sound profile, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch would be an excellent choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a creamy, silky smooth tactile typing experience with a pronounced bump and a more subdued sound signature, the Durock Ice King Tactile switch would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your choice between these switches should be based on your personal typing preferences and what kind of typing experience you are looking to achieve.
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