Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. Gateron Ink Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Gateron Ink Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Gateron Ink Red mechanical keyboard switches, it becomes evident that both offer unique advantages for different types of users. The G Pro 3.0 Black is ideal for those who prefer a heavier typing experience, with its 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force providing a substantial feel. On the other hand, the Ink Red is perfect for individuals with a lighter typing style, thanks to its lower actuation force. While the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a medium-high pitch auditory experience and vibrant RGB lighting effects, the Ink Red provides a smooth and clacky sound profile. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
Gold-plated
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and Gateron Ink Red both utilize a proprietary INK blend top housing which results in a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile. This clacky sound is satisfying for many users. However, the G Pro 3.0 Black features a POM bottom housing that creates a deeper and more muted sound profile compared to the Ink Red's top housing. This difference in bottom housing material leads to a variation in sound experience between the two switches.
In terms of housing materials, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and Gateron Ink Red both offer unique qualities. While the G Pro 3.0 Black's POM bottom housing creates a deep and muted sound, the Ink Red's proprietary INK blend bottom housing provides a similar high-pitched sound profile to its top housing. This difference in bottom housing material influences the overall sound profile and feel of each switch, catering to different preferences based on sound and typing experience.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and Gateron Ink Red showcase the impact of housing materials on the sound and feel of mechanical switches. While both switches share a similar proprietary INK blend top housing with a clacky sound profile, the use of different bottom housing materials results in distinct typing experiences. Whether you prefer a deeper and more muted sound or a consistently high-pitched tone, these variations in housing materials cater to different preferences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch, it is evident that the G Pro 3.0 Black is the heavier option. With an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, the G Pro 3.0 Black provides a medium-heavy typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Red offers a lighter feel with an actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, categorizing it as a medium switch. Those looking for a lighter typing experience may prefer the Gateron Ink Red, as it requires less force to actuate and bottom out. In contrast, individuals who prefer a more substantial push feel may lean towards the G Pro 3.0 Black for a heavier typing experience. Overall, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Gateron Ink Red linear switch both have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key using either switch, you will feel the key travel a total of 4 mm from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent typing experience in terms of travel distance, allowing for similar results in terms of key press feel and responsiveness. Whether you choose the G Pro 3.0 Black or the Ink Red, you can expect a similar tactile experience in terms of 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 Ink Red 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 Red for $7.35.
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
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch is known for its clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy auditory experience when pressed, thanks to its medium-high pitch. On the other hand, the Gateron Ink Red linear switch offers a more neutral sound with a slight chirpy undertone, adding a unique acoustic signature to the typing experience. Both switches emphasize smoothness in feel, with the G Pro 3.0 Black boasting a creamy and silky typing sensation, while the Ink Red provides a silky and polished feel with a mild touch. Overall, while the sound profiles differ between the two switches, the smooth and effortless typing experience can be expected from both, catering to users with different preferences in terms of sound and feel. Ultimately, choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and Gateron Ink Red boils down to personal preference in sound and typing experience, ensuring a satisfying keyboard experience for newcomers in the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch or the Gateron Ink Red linear switch, you should take into account your preference for typing experience. If you prefer a more substantial and tactile feel with a medium-heavy bottom-out force, the G Pro 3.0 Black would be the optimal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and lighter typing experience with a lower actuation force, the Ink Red would be more suitable. Additionally, consider the sound profile that appeals to you, whether it be the clacky and subdued sound of the G Pro 3.0 Black or the neutral and chirpy sound of the Ink Red. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the typing experience you desire.
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