Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. Cherry MX Black
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Cherry MX Black switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Cherry MX Black mechanical keyboard switches, both offer a linear typing experience but with distinct characteristics. The G Pro 3.0 Black by Gateron boasts a heavier actuation and bottom-out force, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial typing feel. Its medium-high pitch and frosted light diffuser enhance the overall typing experience, making it suitable for users looking for a premium switch on a budget. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black with its classic textured smoothness and deep sound profile, thanks to Cherry's Hyperglide tooling, provides a different typing sensation. While both switches offer a linear feel, the G Pro 3.0 Black leans towards a medium-heavy touch, whereas the MX Black offers a more traditional stiffness. Ultimately, the choice between these switches would depend on individual 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
60g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
80g
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
No
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Cherry MX Black switches both have distinct characteristics when it comes to their housing materials. The G Pro 3.0 Black features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which results in a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is often described as clacky. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black utilizes a nylon top housing, which creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to the softer nature of nylon that absorbs more sound. While both switches offer a satisfying typing experience, the difference in sound profile can cater to different preferences.
In terms of the bottom housing, the G Pro 3.0 Black incorporates a POM housing that produces a deeper and more muted sound profile compared to the nylon bottom housing of the Cherry MX Black. The nylon bottom housing of the MX Black contributes to a fuller sound profile with its ability to absorb more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. These differences in housing materials showcase how subtle variations can impact the overall typing experience, with the G Pro 3.0 Black offering a unique sound profile that may appeal to those looking for a quieter typing experience, while the Cherry MX Black provides a fuller and rounder sound for a more robust typing feel.
While the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and Cherry MX Black switches offer differences in their housing materials, they both excel in providing a satisfying typing experience. The choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile and feel. Both switches showcase the importance of housing materials in creating distinct typing experiences, with the G Pro 3.0 Black leaning towards a clacky and muted sound profile thanks to its unique blend of INK and POM materials, while the Cherry MX Black offers a fuller and rounder sound with its nylon housing. Overall, both switches demonstrate the impact housing materials can have on the overall typing feel and sound profile.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, it is evident that the G Pro 3.0 Black has a lighter bottom out force of 70 grams compared to the MX Black's heavier 80 grams. However, both switches share the same actuation force of 60 grams, providing similar results in terms of triggering keystrokes. Some users may prefer the lighter bottom out force of the G Pro 3.0 Black for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others may opt for the heavier bottom out force of the MX Black for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key with either switch, you will experience the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. This similarity in travel distance ensures that users will get similar results in terms of feel and typing experience when using either switch. Whether you prefer the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black or the Cherry MX Black will depend on other factors such as actuation force, smoothness, and sound, as the travel distance is consistent between the two switches.
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 Cherry MX Black comes in at $4.00 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 offers a clacky and medium-high pitch sound, providing a sharp and snappy auditory experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Black linear switch delivers a low-pitched and deep sound profile, resulting in a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. Depending on personal preference, the G Pro 3.0 Black may suit those who enjoy a crisper and brighter sound, while the MX Black may appeal to individuals who prefer a deeper and more subdued typing noise.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch is known for its creamy and silky typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery sensation with a balanced medium-heavy feel. In comparison, the Cherry MX Black linear switch provides a textured and stiff feel, requiring a higher amount of force to actuate and potentially offering a slightly more tactile experience. Those who appreciate a smoother and subtler typing feel may lean towards the G Pro 3.0 Black, while users who prefer a bit more resistance and texture in their keystrokes may find the MX Black to be more to their liking.
Overall, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Cherry MX Black linear switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different typing preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Black excels in delivering a clacky sound and a creamy typing experience, while the MX Black stands out with its low-pitched sound and textured feel. Depending on whether you prioritize sound, feel, or a combination of both, you can achieve similar typing results with either switch by selecting the one that best aligns with your preferences. Ultimately, choosing between these two switches will come down to personal preference and what specific qualities you value most in a mechanical keyboard switch.
Conclusion
Therefore, when choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Cherry MX Black linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a medium-heavy bottom out force with a balanced feel and medium-high pitch sound, the G Pro 3.0 Black is the way to go. On the other hand, if you prefer a heavier bottom out force with a classic smooth texture and low-pitched sound profile, the Cherry MX Black is the better option for you. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal preference for typing feel and sound characteristics.
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