Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. Everglide Lightning Silver V3
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 mechanical keyboard switches, both switches offer unique features catering to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Black stands out for its heavier actuation and bottom-out forces, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, the Lightning Silver V3 boasts a clacky and high-pitched sound signature, along with a smooth typing feel. While both switches offer enhanced RGB lighting with light diffusers, they differ in their tactile feedback and overall typing experience. 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
48g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.50 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Lengthened gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3, it is evident that both switches offer unique sound profiles attributed to their respective materials. The G Pro 3.0 Black utilizes a proprietary INK blend top housing, which produces a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound described as clacky. In contrast, the Lightning Silver V3 features a polycarbonate top housing, known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. Despite their differences, both materials contribute to the overall sound experience of the switch, allowing users to customize their preferences accordingly.
Furthermore, the G Pro 3.0 Black's POM bottom housing is praised for creating an incredibly pleasing and unique sound profile on the deeper side. Meanwhile, the Lightning Silver V3 incorporates a polycarbonate bottom housing, known for its sharper and higher-pitched sound due to its stiffer plastic composition. While both materials enhance the sound characteristics of the switches, they offer distinct tonal qualities that cater to different user preferences. Whether one prefers a deeper, muted sound or a crisper, resonant sound, each switch provides a customizable experience based on housing material choices.
It is important to note that the top and bottom housings of a switch play a significant role in determining the overall sound and feel of the keystrokes. The qualities of the housing materials are split between the top and bottom of the switch, impacting the sound profile during key press and release. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. Understanding the impact of housing materials on the switch's performance allows users to make informed decisions when selecting a switch that aligns with their preferences for sound and tactile feedback.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch, it is apparent that the G Pro 3.0 Black is heavier in terms of both actuation and bottom out force. The G Pro 3.0 Black requires 60 grams of actuation force and 70 grams to bottom out, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. In contrast, the Lightning Silver V3 is lighter, with an actuation force of 48 grams and a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium-weight option. Those who prefer a lighter touch for extended typing sessions or gaming may lean towards the Lightning Silver V3, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may opt for the G Pro 3.0 Black. Both switches offer a smooth linear feel, so users can expect similar typing results despite the difference in force requirements. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of typing feel and force.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. This makes the G Pro 3.0 Black the switch with the longer travel distance compared to the Lightning Silver V3. The difference may not seem significant, but it can make a difference in the overall typing or gaming experience. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Lightning Silver V3 with its shorter travel distance, while those who appreciate a more substantial keypress may lean towards the G Pro 3.0 Black. Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal preference in terms of key feel and responsiveness.
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 Everglide Lightning Silver V3 has an MSRP of $5.55 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Lightning Silver V3 for $4.10.
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 best described as having a clacky and medium-high pitched sound when pressed. This offers a sharp and snappy typing experience, perfect for those who enjoy a more defined auditory feedback. On the other hand, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch also exhibits a clacky sound but with a higher pitch. This results in a sharper and crisper sound profile, ideal for those who prefer a more distinct and bright sound when typing. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard layout and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switch is described as offering a creamy, silky, and subtle typing experience. This means that users can expect a smooth and buttery sensation, with minimal resistance when pressing and releasing keys, making it effortless to glide through each keystroke. On the other hand, the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 switch is known for its silky feel, providing an exceptionally smooth typing experience with enhanced overall smoothness and reduced resistance. Both switches offer a premium typing feel, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable typing experience for users.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch offer unique sound and feel characteristics that cater to different preferences. While the G Pro 3.0 Black provides a clacky sound with a medium-high pitch and a creamy, silky, and subtle typing feel, the Lightning Silver V3 delivers a clacky, high-pitched sound and a silky typing experience. Depending on individual preferences for sound and feel, both switches offer premium quality and performance, ensuring a satisfying typing experience for newcomers in the mechanical keyboard community.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch or the Everglide Lightning Silver V3 linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing needs. If you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a balanced feel and a medium-high pitch sound, then the G Pro 3.0 Black is a solid choice. On the other hand, if you are looking for a lighter switch with a clacky, high-pitched sound and a silky smooth typing experience, then the Lightning Silver V3 may be more suited to your liking. Both switches offer unique features and characteristics that cater to different preferences, so take into consideration what you value most in a keyboard switch when making your decision. Ultimately, the choice is yours to make based on what feels and sounds best to you.
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