Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. Gateron Jupiter Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Gateron Jupiter Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Gateron Jupiter Red mechanical keyboard switches, both being linear switches, there are distinct differences that cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Black stands out for its heavier actuation and bottom-out force, appealing to users who prefer a more substantial typing feel. On the other hand, the Jupiter Red offers a smoother keystroke with medium-heavy actuation, perfect for those seeking a consistent typing experience. While the G Pro 3.0 Black showcases vibrant RGB lighting effects through its frosted light diffuser, the Jupiter Reds boast softer backlight effects for a more polished look. 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
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
Spring steel
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Gateron Jupiter Red both exhibit distinct characteristics in their housing materials. The G Pro 3.0 Black features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which produces a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound, often described as clacky. In contrast, the Jupiter Red utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to the stiffness of the material. While the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a unique sound with its INK blend top housing, the Jupiter Red provides a clearer and resonant sound with its polycarbonate top housing, especially benefiting RGB lighting users due to its translucency.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, the G Pro 3.0 Black incorporates a POM bottom housing that produces a deeper and muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Jupiter Red utilizes a nylon bottom housing, which creates a fuller and rounder sound due to its softer plastic nature that absorbs more sound. The differences in bottom housing materials between the two switches result in distinct typing experiences, with the G Pro 3.0 Black offering a unique and deep sound while the Jupiter Red provides a fuller and round sound profile.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Gateron Jupiter Red, both switches showcase the impact of top and bottom housing materials on sound and feel. While the G Pro 3.0 Black's INK blend top housing and POM bottom housing create a unique sound combination, the Jupiter Red's polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing offer a clearer and fuller sound experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, it is evident that they offer different actuation and bottom out forces. The G Pro 3.0 Black has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the lighter 45 grams of the Jupiter Red. Additionally, the bottom out force of the G Pro 3.0 Black is 70 grams, while the Jupiter Red requires only 60 grams for bottoming out. This means that the G Pro 3.0 Black provides a slightly more substantial and tactile typing experience with a heavier push feel, ideal for those who prefer a firmer keypress. On the other hand, the Jupiter Red offers a lighter touch, allowing for longer typing sessions without fatigue. Both switches provide a different typing experience, catering to the preferences of individuals who may favor either a lighter or heavier actuation force.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. When comparing and contrasting their travel distance, it can be noted that both switches offer a consistent and similar typing experience with their identical travel distances. This means that users can expect similar results in terms of keypress feel and responsiveness when using either switch. Overall, both switches provide a satisfying typing experience with their smooth linear operation and medium 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 Jupiter Red comes in at $2.80 per 10 switches.
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 is known for its clacky sound profile, producing a sharp and snappy noise when pressed, adding a satisfying auditory feedback to typing sessions. On the other hand, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch offers a neutral sound profile, with a moderate actuation force requirement and sound level suitable for various environments. Both switches provide distinct sound experiences, with the G Pro 3.0 Black offering a more pronounced and percussive sound compared to the Jupiter Red's more balanced and subdued sound.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch boasts a creamy and silky typing experience, providing a smooth and buttery sensation when typing due to lubricant applied at the factory. This switch offers a luxurious feel with minimal resistance, allowing for effortless keystrokes. Similarly, the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch offers a polished and creamy typing experience, featuring a smooth and refined finish that enhances the overall typing feel. Both switches focus on providing a silky typing experience, minimizing resistance and ensuring a comfortable typing session.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the G Pro 3.0 Black stands out with its clacky sound profile and creamy typing experience, the Jupiter Red provides a more balanced and neutral sound, along with a polished typing feel. Both switches cater to different preferences, with the G Pro 3.0 Black appealing to those who appreciate a more pronounced sound and luxurious feel, while the Jupiter Red suits individuals seeking a smoother and more consistent typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preferences for sound and feel during typing sessions, ensuring a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience regardless of the choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch or the Gateron Jupiter Red linear switch, it ultimately depends on your personal preferences. If you prefer a heavier typing experience with a more pronounced sound and a vibrant RGB lighting effect, the G Pro 3.0 Black would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and more consistent keystroke with a softer backlight effect, the Jupiter Red would be more suitable. Consider your typing style, preference for sound, and desired typing feel to make the best decision for your needs. Ultimately, both switches offer excellent quality and performance, so you can't go wrong with either choice.