Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. Outemu Blue Jade
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Outemu Blue Jade switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Outemu Blue Jade mechanical keyboard switches, the decision ultimately boils down to your preference for typing experience. The G Pro 3.0 Black stands out for its linear switch design, offering a smooth and consistent keystroke with its 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force. This switch is ideal for those who desire a more substantial typing feel and enjoy a medium-high pitch auditory experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade switch is a clicky switch that provides tactile feedback and an audible click with each key press, appealing to those who enjoy a more pronounced typing sound and feel. While both switches have their unique characteristics and benefits, determining the best switch for you will depend on your personal typing style and 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
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
65g
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
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
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Outemu Blue Jade, it's clear that the G Pro 3.0 Black utilizes a proprietary INK blend for its top housing, while the Blue Jade features a nylon top housing. The G Pro 3.0 Black's INK blend top housing produces a pointed and high-pitched sound profile, described as clacky, while the Blue Jade's nylon top housing creates a deeper and fuller sound profile due to its softer plastic that absorbs more sound. However, both switch variants offer unique sound characteristics that can enhance the typing experience for users seeking different auditory feedback.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the G Pro 3.0 Black boasts a POM bottom housing, known for creating a pleasing and unique sound profile that is deeper and relatively more muted. On the other hand, the Blue Jade's nylon bottom housing also contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile thanks to its softer plastic that absorbs sound effectively. While both housings differ in material, they both emphasize a deeper sound experience that can appeal to users looking for a more substantial and satisfying typing sound.
When considering the impact of the top and bottom housings on the overall sound and feel of the switches, it's important to note how each material contributes to the tactile experience. The bottom housing, whether POM or nylon, plays a significant role in the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing the key. Meanwhile, the top housing, whether INK blend or nylon, influences the sound when releasing a key. While the G Pro 3.0 Black and the Blue Jade may utilize different housing materials, their similar focus on creating a distinct sound profile showcases the versatility and customization available in mechanical keyboard switches.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, there are some key differences to consider. The G Pro 3.0 Black has a higher actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Blue Jade's 50 grams, making it slightly heavier in terms of initial keypress. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the G Pro 3.0 Black requiring 70 grams and the Blue Jade needing 65 grams to fully press down. This means that while the G Pro 3.0 Black may feel slightly heavier at the start of a keystroke, the overall experience of pressing down and bottoming out the keys will be quite similar between the two switches. This makes them ideal choices for those who prefer a medium-heavy typing experience, with a balance between lightness for extended typing sessions and a stronger push feel for a more substantial typing feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to personal preference in terms of initial keypress weight.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch have a travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key with either of these switches, you will feel the same distance traveled from the top to the bottom. In terms of travel distance, there is no difference between the two switches, as they both offer a comfortable and consistent typing experience with the same amount of key travel. Therefore, you can expect similar results in terms of key travel distance while using either of these 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 Outemu Blue Jade 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 characterized by a medium-high pitch sound profile, which can be described as clacky and subdued. This means that when pressed, it produces a sharp, snappy sound with a crisp and bright tone, while also offering a more subtle sound compared to most switches. On the other hand, the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch's sound qualities are unknown, so it's hard to draw a direct comparison in this aspect. Moving on to feel, the G Pro 3.0 Black switch provides a creamy and silky typing experience, where the keys glide with ease, offering a smooth and buttery sensation. It also has a gentle resistance for a light typing feel suitable for shared spaces. Unfortunately, the feel of the Outemu Blue Jade switch is unknown, making it challenging to contrast with the G Pro 3.0 Black. Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch stands out for its premium quality, balanced medium-heavy feel, medium-high pitch sound, and creamy typing experience, making it a desirable choice for users seeking a satisfying typing experience. While the Outemu Blue Jade switch lacks available information for a direct comparison, users can expect similar outcomes in sound and feel if seeking a switch with a clicky sound and tactile feedback.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch or the Outemu Blue Jade clicky switch, it all comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy linear switch with a balanced feel, a clacky and slightly subdued sound profile, and a creamy or silky typing experience, then the G Pro 3.0 Black may be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a clicky switch with a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a loud, crisp sound when typing, the Blue Jade may be more suitable. Ultimately, both switches have their own unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so it's important to consider what aspects are most important to you in order to make the best decision for your typing experience.
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