Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. Gateron Mini i
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Gateron Mini i switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and Gateron Mini i are two popular choices that offer unique characteristics. The G Pro 3.0 Black, a linear switch, is favored for its heavy actuation and bottom-out force, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer a solid feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i, a tactile switch, offers a gentle tactility without sacrificing the satisfying feedback of typing, making it a great option for extended periods of comfortable typing in a professional setting. While the G Pro 3.0 Black is characterized by a clacky and creamy feel, the Mini i excels in being bouncy and easy-to-press. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches will depend on personal preferences and usage scenarios. 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
40g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.40 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 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
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
22mm double-stage spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Gateron Mini i both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their overall sound profiles. The G Pro 3.0 Black's proprietary INK blend top housing is known for its pointed and high-pitched sound profile, giving it a clacky feel. In contrast, the Mini i's nylon top housing provides a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to the material's softness and ability to absorb more sound. While both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, they do so in distinct ways due to their top housing material differences.
In terms of bottom housing, the G Pro 3.0 Black utilizes POM material, resulting in a deeper and more muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Mini i's nylon bottom housing complements its top housing by offering a fuller sound profile with a duller and rounder tone. The bottom housing material plays a significant role in the overall sound and feel of a switch when pressed, shaping the bottom-out sound experience for the user. Both switches showcase how different bottom housing materials can enhance the overall typing experience in unique ways.
Despite their differences in housing materials, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Gateron Mini i provide a satisfying typing experience with distinct sound profiles. The top and bottom housings of each switch contribute to their overall sound and feel, with the top housing influencing the sound upon key release and the bottom housing impacting the bottom-out sound. While the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a clacky and sharp sound profile with its INK blend top housing and POM bottom housing, the Mini i provides a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon top and bottom housings. Ultimately, both switches showcase how the choice of housing materials can affect the overall typing experience in different ways.
Weight
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch has a higher actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Gateron Mini i tactile switch. The G Pro 3.0 Black has a medium-heavy actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, while the Mini i has a lighter actuation force of 40 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams. This means that the G Pro 3.0 Black will require more force to press down on the keys compared to the Mini i. For those who prefer a lighter typing experience for longer periods of time, the Mini i would be the better choice. However, for individuals who prefer a stronger push feel and a more substantial typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Black would be the preferred option. Regardless of the differences in actuation and bottom out forces, both switches offer quality performance for different preferences in typing pressure.
Travel distance
The travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch is 4 mm, while the Gateron Mini i tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.4 mm. The G Pro 3.0 Black has a slightly longer travel distance compared to the Mini i tactile switch. The 4.0mm travel distance of the G Pro 3.0 Black is more traditional and provides a deeper key press feel, which may be preferred by some users. On the other hand, the Mini i tactile switch offers a shorter 3.4mm travel distance, making it ideal for gamers who prioritize faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for 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 Gateron Mini i comes in at $6.00 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 described as clacky, producing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch is neutral in sound, offering a moderate sound profile suitable for various settings. The G Pro 3.0 Black will provide a more pronounced and percussive auditory experience, while the Mini i will offer a more subtle and muted sound signature ideal for office environments.
Moving on to feel, the G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch is described as creamy and silky, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience with medium-heavy actuation forces. In contrast, the Gateron Mini i tactile switch offers a bouncy and easy-to-press feel, with light actuation forces perfect for long typing sessions. The G Pro 3.0 Black will deliver a more substantial and luxurious typing feel, while the Mini i will offer a softer and responsive typing experience, reducing finger fatigue during extended use.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Gateron Mini i tactile switch cater to different preferences in sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Black provides a clacky and substantial typing experience with medium-heavy actuation forces, while the Mini i offers a neutral sound profile and a bouncy, easy-to-press typing feel. Depending on your preference for sound and typing experience, you can choose between the two switches to achieve your desired level of feedback and comfort during typing sessions.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch or the Gateron Mini i tactile switch, your decision should be based on your preferred typing experience. If you are someone who values a medium-heavy typing feel with a more substantial key press and a somewhat clacky sound profile, then the G Pro 3.0 Black may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter typing experience with gentle tactility and a more subtle sound profile, then the Mini i switch would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision between these two switches comes down to your personal preference for typing feel and sound, so choose the one that aligns best with your preferences.
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