Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. Outemu Blue
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Outemu Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When selecting a mechanical keyboard switch, the decision often boils down to personal preferences and typing style. In this case, let's compare the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black, a linear switch, with the Outemu Blue, a clicky switch. The G Pro 3.0 Black is praised for its premium quality at an affordable price, offering a heavier typing experience with a balanced 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force. It also provides a medium-high pitch auditory feedback and enhanced RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue switch is known for its distinct clicky sound, perfect for those who enjoy a tactile typing sensation. 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
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
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
Plate (3-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Outemu Blue, we can see that both switches offer unique characteristics based on their top and bottom housing materials. The G Pro 3.0 Black features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which provides a satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound profile, while the Outemu Blue utilizes a polycarbonate top housing to create a sharper and crisper sound. This difference in sound profile is attributed to the stiffness of polycarbonate versus the characteristics of the INK blend in the G Pro 3.0 Black. While both switches offer a distinct sound, the G Pro 3.0 Black leans towards a clacky sound, while the Outemu Blue offers a more resonant profile ideal for RGB lighting aesthetics.
Moving on to the bottom housing materials, the G Pro 3.0 Black uses a POM bottom housing to produce a deeper and more muted sound profile, while the Outemu Blue opts for a nylon bottom housing that creates a fuller and rounder sound. The softer nature of nylon allows for more sound absorption, resulting in a duller sound compared to the POM material in the G Pro 3.0 Black. This difference in sound is noticeable when typing on switches with these respective bottom housing materials, as each offers a unique typing experience based on their acoustic properties.
When considering the overall typing experience of these switches, the impact of the top and bottom housing materials becomes apparent. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel of the switch, while the top housing plays a significant role in the sound produced when releasing a key. While the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Outemu Blue may have different housing materials, they both contribute to a customized typing experience based on the specific characteristics of their top and bottom housing materials. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound profile, feel, and aesthetics.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, it is evident that the G Pro requires a heavier touch than the Blue. The G Pro has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Blue has a lighter actuation force of 50 grams, with the bottom out force being unknown. The G Pro provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier forces, while the Blue offers a lighter touch that allows for longer typing or gaming sessions. Both switches have their advantages, with the G Pro catering to those who prefer a stronger push feel, and the Blue accommodating users who prefer a lighter touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch have the same travel distance of 4mm. This means that both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of how far the keys travel from top to bottom when pressed. This makes them equally suited for users who prefer a consistent feel and feedback while typing. The similarities in travel distance between the two switches make them a good choice for those looking for a standard key press experience without any significant differences in 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 Outemu Blue comes in at $3.10 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
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch is known for its medium-high pitch sound profile, creating a clacky typing experience that is sharp, bright, and percussive. This sound is more pronounced compared to the subdued sound of other switches, adding a tactile element to the typing process. In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a creamy and silky typing sensation, thanks to the smooth and buttery actuation of the switch. This enhances the overall typing experience, allowing fingers to glide effortlessly across the keys with minimal resistance. The medium-heavy actuation force adds to the substantive feel of the switch, appealing to users who prefer a more robust tactile feedback.
On the other hand, the Outemu Blue clicky switch's sound profile and feel qualities are unknown. However, based on the information provided for the G Pro 3.0 Black, it can be inferred that the Outemu Blue switch is likely to offer a sharper and clickier sound profile with a more tactile typing experience due to its clicky nature. Without specific details, it is safe to assume that the Outemu Blue switch may cater to users who enjoy a more pronounced auditory and tactile feedback during typing.
Overall, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and Outemu Blue clicky switch may offer different sound and feel experiences, both switches are designed to provide a premium typing experience at a budget-friendly price point. Depending on personal preferences for sound, feel, and typing dynamics, users can choose between the clacky, creamy, and silky qualities of the G Pro 3.0 Black or the potentially sharper and clickier characteristics of the Outemu Blue switch. Ultimately, both switches offer a range of options for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts to customize their typing experience.
Conclusion
Therefore, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Outemu Blue clicky switch, consider the type of typing experience and sound profile you prefer. If you value a medium-heavy typing feel with a clacky and subdued sound signature, then the G Pro 3.0 Black may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clicky switch with a light typing feel, the Outemu Blue switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences and how you prioritize typing experience and sound feedback in your mechanical keyboard.
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