Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. Outemu Lime (V3)
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Outemu Lime (V3) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to compare and contrast are the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Outemu Lime. The G Pro 3.0 Black is a linear switch, known for its heavy actuation and bottom-out force, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. It also offers a medium-high pitch auditory experience and vibrant RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the Outemu Lime is a tactile switch that is lightweight, provides a gentle tactile feedback, and is silenced for a quieter typing experience. This switch is perfect for those who enjoy a light touch with a touch of tactility. Both switches have their unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, 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
35g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
45g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black features a proprietary INK blend top housing that creates a pointed and high-pitched sound profile, often described as clacky. In contrast, the Outemu Lime utilizes a nylon top housing which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the material's softer nature that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to the G Pro 3.0 Black.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the G Pro 3.0 Black's POM material creates a unique deep and muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Lime's nylon bottom housing contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, similar to its top housing. Both switches benefit from the absorptive qualities of nylon, resulting in a richer sound experience overall compared to the G Pro 3.0 Black's more distinct clacky sound.
Overall, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Outemu Lime differ in their housing materials, they both offer unique sound profiles that cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Black leans towards a sharper and more defined clacky sound, whereas the Lime provides a deeper and fuller sound due to its nylon housing. Despite these differences, both switches deliver satisfying typing experiences that showcase the impact of housing materials on the overall sound and feel of a switch.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch, it's clear that the actuation and bottom out forces vary significantly between the two. The G Pro 3.0 Black has a higher actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. On the other hand, the Outemu Lime has a much lighter actuation force of 35 grams and a bottom out force of 45 grams, making it a lighter switch overall. This means that the G Pro 3.0 Black will provide a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Outemu Lime will offer a lighter touch, perfect for longer typing sessions or gaming. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to personal preference regarding 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 Outemu Lime tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm. The G Pro 3.0 Black offers a longer travel distance, making it slightly more traditional in terms of key press feel, while the Lime provides a shorter travel distance, catering to those who prioritize faster response times. Gamers may favor the Lime switch for its quick actuation, while users looking for a more substantial key press may lean towards the G Pro 3.0 Black. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of key press depth 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 Outemu Lime (V3) comes in at $3.40 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
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch is characterized by a clacky sound, offering a sharp and snappy auditory experience. In contrast, the Outemu Lime tactile switch provides a muted sound profile, minimizing the noise typically associated with mechanical keyboards. The difference in sound between the two switches is quite noticeable, with the G Pro 3.0 Black being more pronounced while the Lime offers a softer and quieter typing experience.
Moving on to the feel, the G Pro 3.0 Black switch is known for its creamy and silky typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery sensation when typing. On the other hand, the Outemu Lime switch provides a feathery touch, requiring little exertion from your fingers and reducing finger fatigue. Both switches have a subtle typing feel that is comfortable for extended typing sessions, but the G Pro 3.0 Black leans towards a more luxurious and refined experience compared to the lightweight and approachable feel of the Lime.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Black provides a clacky sound and a creamy, silky typing experience, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial and refined feel. On the other hand, the Outemu Lime switch offers a muted sound and a feathery touch, perfect for tactile fans looking for a lightweight and gentle typing experience. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between a more pronounced and luxurious typing experience with the G Pro 3.0 Black or a quieter and more approachable feel with the Outemu Lime.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Outemu Lime tactile switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a medium-heavy feel with crisp and bright sound, the G Pro 3.0 Black may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a feathery light typing experience with a touch of tactility and a quieter sound profile, the Lime switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing preferences and the overall feel and sound that you find most comfortable and satisfying.
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