Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. Haimu Neo White
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Haimu Neo White switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Haimu Neo White mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches offer unique features that cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Black by Gateron stands out for its heaviest linear switch within the G Pro series, providing a more substantive typing experience with 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force. Its medium-high pitch auditory experience and frosted light diffuser for vibrant RGB lighting effects make it an appealing choice for those who enjoy a clacky and creamy typing sensation. On the other hand, the Haimu Neo White switches offer a medium weight and smooth actuation due to the rare use of a Ly stem, providing a satisfying and smooth keystroke experience with slightly reduced total travel. Categorized as mild and neutral, the Neo White switches cater to users looking for a more subdued and silky typing feel. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
58g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Ly
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Double-staged spring
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Haimu Neo White differ significantly in their housing materials, with the former featuring a proprietary INK blend top housing while the latter utilizes a polycarbonate top housing. The G Pro 3.0 Black is known for its pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, which is described as clacky. In contrast, the Neo White's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature. However, both switches offer a satisfying sound experience, albeit with slightly different characteristics.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the G Pro 3.0 Black showcases a POM bottom housing, resulting in a deeper and relatively muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Neo White features a nylon bottom housing, which produces a deeper and fuller sound profile. The differences in bottom housing materials further contribute to the unique sound experience offered by each switch. While the POM bottom housing of the G Pro 3.0 Black creates a more subdued sound, the nylon bottom housing of the Neo White produces a rounder and duller tone.
Overall, the use of distinct housing materials in the G Pro 3.0 Black and the Neo White not only affects the sound profile of each switch but also contributes to their overall feel and typing experience. While the top and bottom housings of these switches differ in material composition, the impact of each housing material is felt in different aspects of typing. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key, while the top housing plays a significant role in the sound when releasing a key. Despite these differences, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with unique sound profiles.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Haimu Neo White linear switch have some key differences. The G Pro 3.0 Black has a slightly heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Neo White, which has an unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the G Pro 3.0 Black requires 70 grams while the Neo White only requires 58 grams. This makes the Neo White a lighter option overall, which may appeal to those who prefer a lighter typing experience for extended periods of time. On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Black provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces, which some users may prefer for a more tactile feel. 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 4 mm, while the Haimu Neo White linear switch has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.6 mm. The G Pro 3.0 Black offers a more traditional travel distance, ideal for those who prefer a bit more depth when pressing down on a key. On the other hand, the Neo White provides a slightly shallower travel distance, which may be favored by gamers looking for faster response times. Both switches offer a smooth linear feel, but the G Pro 3.0 Black has a longer travel distance compared to the Neo White. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on personal preference regarding travel distance and key press feel.
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 Haimu Neo White comes in at $2.70 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch is known for its slightly subdued yet clacky noise profile, delivering a crisp and bright sound with each keystroke. On the other hand, the Haimu Neo White linear switch offers a more neutral sound, providing a moderate sound profile suitable for various environments. Both switches will provide satisfying auditory feedback, but the G Pro 3.0 Black may offer a bit more tactile feedback for those who prefer a sharper sound.
In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switch is renowned for its creamy and silky typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery sensation with each keystroke. In contrast, the Haimu Neo White linear switch provides a more mild typing experience that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone in terms of feel. Both switches offer a pleasant typing experience, with the G Pro 3.0 Black leaning towards a more luxurious and smooth feel, while the Neo White offers a more approachable typing experience for a wider range of users.
Overall, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Haimu Neo White linear switches offer their own unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Black provides a heavier actuation force and a slightly clacky sound profile, along with a creamy and silky typing experience. On the other hand, the Neo White switch offers a more neutral sound and a mild typing sensation, making it a versatile option for a broader range of users. Depending on your preference for sound and feel, both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience, ensuring that you'll get similar results with either choice.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch or the Haimu Neo White linear switch, you should weigh your preference for typing experience and sound profile. If you prefer a heavier typing experience with a more pronounced actuation force and bottom-out force, along with a clacky and slightly more pronounced sound profile, then the G Pro 3.0 Black may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother and slightly lighter typing experience with a more neutral sound profile, the Haimu Neo White switch may be more suitable for your needs. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches comes down to personal preference and the type of typing experience you are looking for.