Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. Gateron Ink Black V2
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Gateron Ink Black V2 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Gateron Ink Black V2 mechanical keyboard switches, both of which are linear switches, several key differences and similarities come to light. The G Pro 3.0 Black is known for its heaviest linear feel within the G Pro series, appealing to those seeking a more substantial typing experience with its 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the Ink Black V2 offers a smooth downstroke and rich clack, making it a community favorite for its classic linear switch characteristics. While the G Pro 3.0 Black boasts a medium-high pitch auditory experience and vibrant RGB lighting effects, the Ink Black V2 is characterized by a low-pitched sound profile and polished feel. 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
60g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
70g
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
Proprietary INK blend
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Color coated
Housing materials
When comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Gateron Ink Black V2, both switches feature a proprietary INK blend top housing that results in a similar pointed and high-pitched sound profile, often described as clacky. However, the G Pro 3.0 Black stands out with a POM bottom housing that creates a unique, deep, and relatively muted sound profile. In contrast, the Ink Black V2 utilizes the same proprietary INK blend for its bottom housing, ultimately showcasing a consistent high-pitched sound profile throughout.
The differences in housing materials between the G Pro 3.0 Black and the Ink Black V2 highlight how the bottom housing can significantly impact the bottom-out sound and feel of a switch, while the top housing plays a crucial role in the sound when a key is released. The POM bottom housing of the G Pro 3.0 Black provides a deeper and more muted sound experience, giving users a unique tactile feedback compared to the Ink Black V2's high-pitched clacky sound profile throughout. Both switches offer distinct sound profiles based on their housing materials, catering to different preferences for typing or gaming experiences.
In essence, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Gateron Ink Black V2 both use a proprietary INK blend for their top housing, the introduction of a POM bottom housing in the G Pro 3.0 Black sets it apart in terms of sound profile. The Ink Black V2, on the other hand, maintains a consistent high-pitched sound profile across both top and bottom housings. Ultimately, users can expect similar results in terms of a clacky sound profile with both switches, with the G Pro 3.0 Black offering a deeper and more muted experience due to its unique POM bottom housing.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch, we find that both switches have the same actuation force of 60 grams and bottom out force of 70 grams, making them equal in this aspect. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of typing experience and feel when using either of these switches. Despite both switches having the same weight specifications, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Gateron Ink Black V2 offer a medium-heavy actuation and bottom out force, providing a balance between a lighter touch for extended typing sessions and a more substantial push feel for a satisfying typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between the two switches may come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and desired force feedback.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 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 the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance ensures that you will get similar results in terms of key feel and responsiveness when using either switch. In conclusion, both switches offer a consistent and reliable typing experience with a travel distance that is neither shorter nor longer than the other.
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 Ink Black V2 has an MSRP of $7.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Ink Black V2 for $7.24.
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 Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch has a clacky and subdued sound profile, offering a crisp and bright tone with a medium-high pitch. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch provides a low-pitched, bassy, and chirpy sound, giving off a richer and deeper tone with a unique squeak. The choice between the two would depend on personal preference, with the G Pro 3.0 Black providing a sharper and snappier sound, while the Ink Black V2 offers a mellower and more distinctive acoustic experience.
When it comes to feel, the G Pro 3.0 Black switch is described as creamy, silky, and subtle, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with a gentle resistance. In contrast, the Gateron Ink Black V2 switch is characterized as mild and polished, providing a more gentle typing feel with a smooth and refined finish. Both switches aim to offer an overall smooth typing experience, with the G Pro 3.0 Black leaning towards a slightly heavier feel with its medium-heavy actuation force, while the Ink Black V2 maintains a more approachable and middle-ground typing sensation.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch both offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the G Pro 3.0 Black leans towards a more substantial and clacky typing experience with a medium-high pitch, the Ink Black V2 provides a smoother and deeper sound profile with a low-pitched bassy tone. In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a creamier and silkier typing experience with a subtle resistance, while the Ink Black V2 delivers a milder and more polished feel. Ultimately, both switches cater to different preferences in sound and feel, ensuring that users can find a switch that suits their individual typing style and preferences.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Gateron Ink Black V2 linear switch, consider the following guidelines. If you prefer a heavier typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom-out force, the G Pro 3.0 Black would be the ideal choice for you. This switch offers a balanced feel with a medium-high pitch sound profile and a frosted light diffuser for vibrant RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, if you are looking for a smoother downstroke with a rich clack sound, the classic and community-favorite Ink Black V2 would be more suitable. This switch provides a medium-heavy bottom-out force with a low-pitched, bassy sound profile. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your preferred typing experience and sound profile.
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