Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. Cherry MX Orange
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Cherry MX Orange switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and Cherry MX Orange each present their own unique attributes tailored to different typing preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Black, lauded for its premium quality at a budget-friendly price, is the heaviest linear switch in the G Pro series, providing a solid and satisfying feel with its 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force. Its medium-high pitch sound and frosted light diffuser enhance the RGB lighting experience, making it a visually striking choice. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange, reissued with enhancements, aims to deliver a nostalgic yet refined typing experience while maintaining durability and reliability, characteristics synonymous with the Cherry brand. Both switches appeal to users seeking linear responses—a smooth and uninterrupted keystroke—yet they cater to distinct tastes; the G Pro for those who value weight and visual flair, and the MX Orange for fans of classic robustness. 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
55g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
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 housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and Cherry MX Orange switches showcase notable differences in their design and resulting sound profiles. The G Pro 3.0 Black employs a proprietary INK blend for its top housing, resulting in a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound that many users describe as "clacky." This distinct acoustic character is particularly appealing to those who enjoy the auditory feedback associated with keystrokes. In contrast, the Cherry MX Orange features a nylon top housing that produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. The nylon's inherent properties absorb more sound and dampen the sharpness, leading to a more rounded and deeper typing experience. Thus, while both switches serve the purpose of providing tactile feedback, the auditory experience differs significantly, catering to varied preferences among users.
Looking at the bottom housing, both switches again reflect contrasting material choices. The G Pro 3.0 Black utilizes a POM (polyoxymethylene) bottom housing, which is known for generating a unique and muted sound, contributing to a deeper bottom-out feel with a distinct acoustic signature. Conversely, the Cherry MX Orange opts for a nylon bottom housing, which echoes the deeper sound profile of its top housing and enriches the overall typing experience. Here, both switches leverage nylon for the Bottom housing, which provides a consistently full sound and a muted feedback profile. This suggests that both switches have their strengths in sound quality, with the G Pro 3.0 Black delivering a unique muted quality due to its POM material, while the MX Orange maintains a consistent approach through its nylon construction.
Ultimately, the combination of housing materials in each switch plays a vital role in shaping the overall typing experience. For users who appreciate a high-pitched and clacky sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black excels with its proprietary INK blend. Conversely, the Cherry MX Orange offers a deeper acoustical experience, hallmarked by its nylon components, making it a favored choice for those seeking a softer auditory feedback. While the G Pro 3.0 Black's bottom housing influences the sound and feel during typing, the MX Orange provides a balanced consistency through its nylon housing. In scenarios where users desire a specific auditory experience, they can find satisfaction across both switches—albeit through different materials manifesting varied sounds during key presses.
Weight
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch in terms of actuation and bottom out forces, there are notable differences that cater to varying preferences in typing experience. The G Pro 3.0 Black features an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, indicating a medium-heavy tactile feedback that some users may find satisfying, particularly those who enjoy a more substantial push feel while typing or gaming. Conversely, the Cherry MX Orange has a lighter actuation force of 55 grams, but its bottom out force is not specified, leaving an unknown aspect for potential users. This means that while the G Pro 3.0 Black is the heavier option overall, the MX Orange may still appeal to those looking for less resistance with each keystroke. For individuals who prefer a lighter switch for extended typing sessions, the Cherry MX Orange would be a more suitable choice, although the lack of a bottom out force measure leaves some uncertainty on its overall feel when pressed fully. Ultimately, if both the actuation and bottom out forces were known to be the same, users could expect similar typing results, but given the current information, it is clear that the G Pro 3.0 Black is the heavier switch.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange linear switch share an identical travel distance of 4 mm. This equal travel distance means that users can expect similar keystroke feedback and response when pressing down on these switches. Whether gaming or typing, the overall experience will be comparable since both switches require the same amount of travel to register a key press. Therefore, if you're looking for a consistent feel in your keyboard, either of these switches will provide the same performance in terms of 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 Cherry MX Orange has an MSRP of $4.10 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Orange for $3.89.
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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switch offers a medium-high pitch auditory experience. Its sound can be described as clacky, delivering a sharp and snappy tone that is bright and percussive when pressed. This switch strikes a balance between audible feedback and subtlety, making it suitable for both casual use and busy environments. However, the sound profile of the Cherry MX Orange switches remains unknown, making it difficult to draw direct comparisons in auditory characteristics. While the G Pro 3.0 Black provides a lively sound, the experience will ultimately vary based on the keyboard, keycap choices, and personal preferences.
In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Black excels with its creamy and silky sensations during typing. The switch provides a smooth, buttery experience thanks to factory lubrication and specific materials, resulting in a silky glide that enhances comfort. Users can expect a minimal resistance that allows for seamless keystrokes, creating a pleasurable typing experience. In contrast, details regarding the tactile feel of the Cherry MX Orange switches are currently unspecified, leaving uncertainty about their typing dynamics.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch presents an engaging sound profile and offers a remarkably smooth feel, making it an excellent choice for enthusiasts who enjoy a heavy linear switch with vibrant auditory feedback. The Cherry MX Orange’s characteristics are less defined, particularly in terms of sound and feel, making it challenging to compare directly. Overall, the G Pro 3.0 Black stands out in essential areas where preferences are crucial; however, the MX Orange may provide a unique experience that awaits further exploration.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Cherry MX Orange, your personal preferences and typing environment will greatly influence your choice. If you're someone who enjoys a more substantial typing experience with a heavier actuation force, the G Pro 3.0 Black could be your ideal switch. It offers a satisfying medium-heavy feel, making it suitable for those who appreciate tactile feedback and want to avoid accidental key presses. The clacky auditory feedback and creamy, silky feel also make it a great choice for dedicated typists who enjoy the interaction with their keyboard. On the other hand, if you prefer a more subdued typing experience that is quieter and potentially better suited for shared or professional spaces, then the Cherry MX Orange would cater to your needs. While the MX Orange switch's detailed sound profile isn't provided, its design indicates it likely promotes a quieter keystroke, enabling you to work without disruptive noise. Ultimately, it's all about how you want your keyboard to feel and sound while you type, so considering your specific usage scenarios and tactile preferences will guide you to the right switch for your unique context.
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