Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. PH Studio Jacaranda
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the PH Studio Jacaranda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the PH Studio Jacaranda both offer unique features and characteristics that cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Black, a linear switch from Gateron, is renowned for its premium quality at an affordable price point. With a heavier actuation and bottom-out force, it provides a more substantial typing experience, appealing to those who prefer a medium-heavy feel. The frosted light diffuser enhances RGB lighting, creating vibrant effects. On the other hand, the Jacaranda linear switch by PH Studio stands out for its gentle 43.5g bottom-out force, ensuring comfortable typing without fatigue. It delivers a crisp and clacky sound signature, along with an extended 22mm spring for a bouncy sensation with each keystroke. 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
39g
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
3.50 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
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Single stage lengthened 22mm spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the PH Studio Jacaranda both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The G Pro 3.0 Black boasts a proprietary INK blend top housing that is known for its pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, described as clacky. On the other hand, the Jacaranda utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. While both materials offer their own unique sound characteristics, the G Pro 3.0 Black's INK blend provides a slightly less sharp and more satisfying sound compared to the Jacaranda's polycarbonate.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, the G Pro 3.0 Black features a POM bottom housing that produces a deeper and more muted sound profile. In contrast, the Jacaranda utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which offers a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition. This difference in bottom housing materials results in a noticeable contrast in sound when typing on the two switches. While the POM bottom housing of the G Pro 3.0 Black creates a unique sound experience, the nylon bottom housing of the Jacaranda offers a more traditional and full-bodied sound profile.
Overall, the housing materials used in the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the PH Studio Jacaranda play a significant role in determining the sound profile and typing experience of each switch. While both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Black's INK blend top housing provides a slightly softer and more clacky sound compared to the sharper and crisper sound of the Jacaranda's polycarbonate top housing. Similarly, the POM bottom housing of the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a deeper and more muted sound compared to the fuller and rounder sound produced by the nylon bottom housing of the Jacaranda. In the end, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch offer different weights in terms of actuation force and bottom out force. The G Pro 3.0 Black has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. In comparison, the Jacaranda has a lighter actuation force of 39 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a lighter option for typing. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may favor the Jacaranda switch, allowing for longer periods of typing without fatigue. In contrast, the G Pro 3.0 Black switch may be more suitable for those who enjoy a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.5 mm. The G Pro 3.0 Black offers a more traditional travel distance, providing a balance between responsiveness and depth. On the other hand, the Jacaranda's shorter travel distance may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference, with the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black offering a slightly longer travel distance for those who prefer a bit more depth, while the PH Studio Jacaranda provides a shorter travel distance for those seeking a quicker key press.
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 PH Studio Jacaranda has an MSRP of $3.90 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Jacaranda for $3.30.
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 offers a medium-high pitch sound that is somewhat subdued, providing a balance between audible feedback and a more subtle sound signature. On the other hand, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch produces a clacky sound that is high-pitched and resonant, delivering a sharp and crisp auditory experience with each keystroke. While both switches fall under the clacky category, the Jacaranda switch leans towards a sharper sound profile compared to the more subdued sound of the G Pro 3.0 Black.
Moving on to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch is described as offering a creamy and silky typing experience, characterized by smooth and buttery key presses with a subtle resistance. This switch aims to provide a luxurious sensation when typing, allowing fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys. Conversely, the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch is known for its silky feel, emphasizing exceptionally smooth key presses that reduce resistance when typing. Both switches prioritize a smooth typing experience, with the G Pro 3.0 Black catering to those who prefer a slightly heavier and more substantial feel compared to the lighter touch of the Jacaranda.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switches offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Black excels in providing a balanced medium-heavy typing experience with a medium-high pitch sound, while the Jacaranda stands out with its clacky, high-pitched sound and bouncy keystrokes due to its extended spring design. Ultimately, choosing between these switches would depend on personal preferences for typing feel, sound profile, and overall typing experience. Both switches promise a high-quality typing experience, and while there are differences in their subjective qualities, users can expect similar levels of premium performance and satisfaction from either option.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are someone who values a medium-heavy typing experience with a balanced feel and a medium-high pitch sound profile, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter typing experience that is easy on the fingers, accompanied by a clacky sound profile and a uniquely bouncy sensation due to the extended 22mm spring, then the PH Studio Jacaranda linear switch would be more suited to your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prefer a medium-heavy or light typing experience, as well as the sound and feel characteristics that align with your personal preferences.
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