Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. Outemu Brown
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Outemu Brown switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black, a linear switch, with the Outemu Brown, a tactile switch, there are some distinct differences to consider. The G Pro 3.0 Black is praised for its premium quality and affordability, offering a heavier linear switch experience with a 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force. This switch is ideal for those who prefer a more substantial typing feel and enjoy a medium-high pitch auditory experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Brown provides a tactile typing experience without the audible click, making it a versatile option for those seeking a more subtle and smooth keystroke. 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
53g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 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
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
The housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Outemu Brown switches offer distinct characteristics that contribute to the overall typing experience. The G Pro 3.0 Black features a proprietary INK blend top housing that provides a clacky and pointed sound profile, while the Outemu Brown utilizes a polycarbonate top housing to produce a sharper and crisper sound. Both materials offer unique sound profiles, with the polycarbonate of the Brown switch delivering a higher-pitched tone compared to the G Pro 3.0 Black's INK blend.
In terms of bottom housing materials, the G Pro 3.0 Black's POM housing creates a deeper and more muted sound profile, contrasting with the nylon bottom housing of the Outemu Brown switch, which elicits a fuller and rounder sound. The softer nature of nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller sound profile that enhances the typing experience. The difference in bottom housing materials showcases how the choice of material can significantly impact the overall sound and feel of a switch.
While the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Outemu Brown switches offer distinct sound profiles, the combination of different housing materials in each switch demonstrates the importance of both top and bottom housings in creating a unique typing experience. The split between the bottom and top housings allows for a balance of impact on both the bottom-out sound and the sound when releasing a key. Whether it be POM and nylon or INK blend and polycarbonate, the housing materials of these switches play a crucial role in shaping the overall sound and feel of each keystroke.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch reveals some key differences. The G Pro 3.0 Black has a higher actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Brown's 53 grams, making it slightly heavier in terms of triggering a keystroke. However, when it comes to bottoming out, the G Pro 3.0 Black also requires more force at 70 grams compared to the Brown's 65 grams. Both switches can be considered medium-heavy in terms of actuation and bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Outemu Brown switch, which has a slightly lighter actuation force. Conversely, those looking for a more substantial typing feel may opt for the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black with its higher actuation and bottom out forces. Overall, both switches offer a different typing experience based on their respective actuation and bottom out forces, catering to individual preferences for typing or gaming purposes.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches will provide a similar typing experience in terms of how far the key travels from the top to the bottom. The travel distance of 4 mm for both switches ensures that users will get consistent feedback and actuation for each key press. Overall, the travel distance for both switches is equal, making them equally suitable for individuals looking for a specific typing experience.
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 Brown 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 clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy typing experience that is crisp and bright. In contrast, the Outemu Brown tactile switch offers a more subdued sound, which is dampened and subtle in comparison. When it comes to feel, the G Pro 3.0 Black is praised for its creamy and silky typing experience, characterized by smooth and buttery keystrokes that glide effortlessly. On the other hand, the feel of the Outemu Brown switch is unknown. Overall, while the G Pro 3.0 Black and the Outemu Brown switches may offer different sound and feel qualities, choosing between them ultimately depends on individual preference and typing style, ensuring that both switches can provide a satisfying typing experience for newcomers to mechanical keyboards.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Outemu Brown tactile switch, it's important to consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a heavier typing feel with a more pronounced auditory feedback, the G Pro 3.0 Black may be the better choice for you. Its medium-heavy bottom-out force and clacky sound profile offer a more substantial typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a smoother, more subtle tactile feedback with a lighter touch, the Outemu Brown switch may be more suited to your needs. Ultimately, the decision between these switches comes down to personal preference in typing feel and sound profile.
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