Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. Outemu Dustproof Blue
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Outemu Dustproof Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Outemu Dustproof Blue offer distinct qualities to consider. The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black is a linear switch that boasts a heavier actuation and bottom-out force, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Its medium-high pitch auditory feedback, combined with a frosted light diffuser for enhanced RGB lighting effects, sets it apart as a premium option at an affordable price point. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Blue is a clicky switch known for its tactile feedback and audible click with each press. While the G Pro 3.0 Black exudes a 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'Subdued', 'Silky', and 'Subtle' feel, the Dustproof Blue offers a unique experience without any specific categorization provided. 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
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
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black uses a combination of INK blend top housing and POM bottom housing, providing a unique sound experience with a pointed and high-pitched sound profile along with a deeper and muted sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Blue utilizes a polycarbonate top housing and a nylon bottom housing, resulting in a sharper and crisper sound profile with a deeper and fuller sound when typing. The use of different materials in the top and bottom housings allows for a split in the qualities each material brings to the overall switch experience.
Despite the differences in housing materials between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Outemu Dustproof Blue, both switches offer a satisfying typing experience with unique sound profiles. The INK blend top housing of the G Pro 3.0 Black creates a clacky and high-pitched sound, while the polycarbonate top housing of the Dustproof Blue produces a sharper and higher-pitched sound. Similarly, the POM bottom housing of the G Pro 3.0 Black results in a deeper and more muted sound, while the nylon bottom housing of the Dustproof Blue provides a rounder and duller sound. Overall, both switches offer a range of sound options depending on user preferences.
In terms of aesthetics, the Outemu Dustproof Blue stands out with its translucent polycarbonate top housing, making it ideal for use with RGB lighting. On the other hand, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black may not offer the same visual appeal but compensates with its unique sound profile. While the materials used in the top and bottom housings differ between the two switches, they both contribute to the overall typing experience, with the bottom housing affecting the bottom-out sound and feel, and the top housing impacting the sound when releasing a key. Overall, whether you choose the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black or the Outemu Dustproof Blue, you can expect a satisfying typing experience with distinct sound profiles.
Weight
In comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, we see that the actuation force of the G Pro is slightly heavier at 60 grams compared to the Dustproof Blue's 50 grams, making the G Pro the heavier of the two. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the G Pro requires 70 grams while the Dustproof Blue needs 65 grams, making them equally medium-heavy in this aspect. Both switches offer a satisfying push feel for typing, but the G Pro may provide a slightly more substantial typing experience due to its higher actuation force. Ultimately, the choice between the two may come down to personal preference, with some users preferring the lighter actuation force of the Dustproof Blue for longer typing sessions, while others may enjoy the heavier actuation force of the G Pro for a more substantial typing experience.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch both have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when you press down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience the same level of travel distance. The 4 mm travel distance of both switches provides a consistent typing experience for users, offering a satisfying and responsive feel. Overall, the travel distance of the G Pro 3.0 Black and Dustproof Blue switches is identical, ensuring that users can expect similar results in terms of key press feel and response.
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 Dustproof 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
In terms of sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch is renowned for its clacky nature, providing a sharp and snappy sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive when pressed. This auditory experience sets it apart from other switches, offering a more distinct and energetic typing sound. On the other hand, the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch's sound profile is unknown, so it is difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard chassis and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch is known for its creamy sensation, providing a smooth and buttery typing experience that feels like gliding your fingers effortlessly across the keys. The silky nature of this switch minimizes resistance when pressing and releasing keys, enhancing the overall smoothness of the typing feel. In contrast, the feel of the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch is not provided, making it challenging to directly compare the tactile experience between the two switches.
Taking into account the available information, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch excels in both sound and feel categories, offering a clacky sound profile and a creamy typing experience. While the specifics of the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch's sound and feel remain unknown, it is important to note that individual preferences play a significant role in determining the ideal switch for each user. Ultimately, both switches may deliver similar results in terms of performance and satisfaction, depending on the user's personal preferences and typing style.
Conclusion
To sum up, when it comes to choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Outemu Dustproof Blue clicky switch, you should opt for the G Pro 3.0 Black if you prefer a more substantive typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom-out force of 70 grams. This switch provides a balanced feel, a medium-high pitch sound, and a frosted light diffuser for vibrant RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, if you enjoy a clicky typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom-out force of 65 grams, the Dustproof Blue may be more suitable for you. Ultimately, your preference for typing feel and sound will determine which switch is the best fit for your needs.
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