Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. Cherry MX Silent Red
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Cherry MX Silent Red switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When considering mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Cherry MX Silent Red stand out as top contenders in the linear switch category. The G Pro 3.0 Black from Gateron offers a premium typing experience at an affordable price, with a heavier 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force for those who prefer a more substantial feel. Its medium-high pitch and RGB lighting effects enhance the overall typing experience. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red provides a similar typing feel to the MX Red but operates silently, making it perfect for quiet environments. Both switches have their unique characteristics and 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
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.90 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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 Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and Cherry MX Silent Red both use different materials for their top and bottom housings, with the G Pro 3.0 Black using a proprietary INK blend for the top housing and POM for the bottom housing, while the MX Silent Red uses nylon for both the top and bottom housings. The INK blend top housing of the G Pro 3.0 Black is known for its relatively high-pitched and clacky sound profile, while the nylon top housing of the MX Silent Red produces a deeper and fuller sound. On the other hand, the POM bottom housing of the G Pro 3.0 Black creates a deeper and more muted sound compared to the nylon bottom housing of the MX Silent Red.
Despite the differences in housing materials, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and Cherry MX Silent Red aim to provide a satisfying typing experience with unique sound profiles. The G Pro 3.0 Black's use of the INK blend top housing and POM bottom housing results in a combination of high-pitched clacky sounds and deeper, muted tones, providing a balance of sound qualities. In comparison, the MX Silent Red's consistent use of nylon for both top and bottom housings delivers a fuller and rounder sound profile, thanks to the material's softer nature that absorbs more sound.
While the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and Cherry MX Silent Red have different housing materials for their switches, both aim to enhance the typing experience by offering unique sound profiles. The split between top and bottom housing materials in the G Pro 3.0 Black results in a blend of high-pitched clacky sounds and deeper tones, providing a varied sound experience. Conversely, the MX Silent Red's consistent use of nylon throughout the switch offers a fuller and rounder sound profile, creating a more uniform typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound and feel during typing.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, it is clear that the G Pro 3.0 Black is heavier in both regards. The G Pro 3.0 Black has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a medium-heavy typing experience. On the other hand, the MX Silent Red is lighter with an actuation force of 45 grams, but the bottom out force is unknown. The difference in weight between the two switches offers users the opportunity to choose between a lighter typing experience for extended use or a heavier push feel for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch has a travel distance of 4mm, while the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch has a travel distance of 3.7mm. In this case, the Cherry MX Silent Red has a shorter travel distance compared to the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black. Gamers who prioritize faster response times may prefer the Cherry MX Silent Red due to its shorter travel distance, while those who enjoy a more substantial keypress may opt for the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black with its slightly longer travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing or gaming style.
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 Silent Red has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the MX Silent Red for $4.15.
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 linear switch offers a clacky and slightly subdued typing experience, with a sharp and snappy sound profile that is not overly loud but still present. On the other hand, the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch provides a muted, thocky, and low-pitched sound that significantly reduces noise output compared to traditional mechanical switches, making it ideal for quiet environments. Both switches offer distinct auditory experiences, catering to different preferences in terms of typing noise.
In regard to feel, the G Pro 3.0 Black switch is described as creamy, silky, and subtle, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with a balanced medium-heavy feel. Conversely, the MX Silent Red switch is noted for its slightly textured feel, providing a different tactile sensation compared to the creamy smoothness of the Gateron switch. While the specifics of the Cherry MX Silent Red switch's feel may vary depending on user preference for texture, both switches ultimately offer a satisfying typing experience with their own unique tactile characteristics.
Taking all the available information into consideration, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch provide distinctive qualities in terms of sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Black offers a clacky sound and creamy feel that may appeal to those looking for a more substantial typing experience, while the MX Silent Red provides a muted sound and slightly textured feel that prioritizes quiet operation. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, and the overall typing experience desired.
Conclusion
In closing, when choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Cherry MX Silent Red linear switch, consider your preferences for typing experience and environment. If you enjoy a more substantial feel with a balanced medium-heavy force and a clacky sound profile, the G Pro 3.0 Black would be a great choice. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly heavier switch that operates silently with a muted, thocky sound and a textured feel, the MX Silent Red may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your decision should be based on what feels most comfortable and satisfying for your typing needs and surroundings.
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