Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. Outemu Milk Blue
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Outemu Milk Blue switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When looking at mechanical keyboard switches, two popular options to consider are the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black, a linear switch, and the Outemu Milk Blue, a clicky switch. The G Pro 3.0 Black stands out for its budget-friendly price point combined with premium quality construction. This switch is ideal for those seeking a heavier linear switch, offering a substantial typing experience with its 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force. Its medium-high pitch auditory feedback and enhanced RGB lighting effects make it a visually and audibly pleasing option. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue is a clicky switch, known for its satisfying tactile feedback and audible click. While the G Pro 3.0 Black caters to those who prefer a smoother and quieter typing experience, the Milk Blue switch is perfect for typists who enjoy a more pronounced key press feedback. 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 terms of housing materials, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Outemu Milk Blue offer contrasting experiences. The G Pro 3.0 Black features a proprietary INK blend top housing that produces a thin, higher-pitched sound with a satisfying clacky feel. On the other hand, the Milk Blue utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, which creates a sharper, crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature. While both offer unique sound profiles, the G Pro leans towards a more pointed and high-pitched sound compared to the Milk Blue's sharper and clearer tone.
When it comes to bottom housings, the G Pro 3.0 Black employs a POM material that produces a deep and muted sound profile. In contrast, the Milk Blue utilizes a nylon bottom housing, known for eliciting a fuller and rounder sound. The differences in bottom housing materials could lead to variations in typing experience, with the G Pro offering a more subdued and deeper sound while the Milk Blue provides a fuller and richer sound with its nylon material.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Outemu Milk Blue housing materials ultimately depends on personal preference. While the G Pro offers a unique sound profile with its INK blend top housing and POM bottom housing, the Milk Blue provides a sharper and crisper tone with its polycarbonate top housing and nylon bottom housing. Both switches have their advantages and drawbacks, so it's essential to consider the type of typing experience and sound profile you prefer when selecting between these two options.
Weight
In comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, it is evident that there are notable differences. The G Pro 3.0 Black has a slightly heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Milk Blue's 50 grams, making it a bit lighter to activate. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the G Pro 3.0 Black requires 70 grams to fully press down, while the Milk Blue's bottom out force is unknown. This makes the G Pro 3.0 Black a bit heavier overall in terms of typing experience. While some may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Milk Blue for longer typing sessions, others may opt for the heavier feel of the G Pro 3.0 Black for a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference regarding the weight of the key press.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Outemu Milk Blue clicky 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 when pressed. In terms of travel distance, there is no difference between the two switches, so users can expect consistent results from both. Both switches offer a standard travel distance, making them suitable choices for those looking for a familiar typing 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 Outemu Milk 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch is known for its clacky nature, providing a sharp and snappy sound that is crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch's sound quality is currently unknown. It is important to note that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch is praised for its creamy and silky typing experience, offering smooth and buttery keystrokes that effortlessly glide under the fingers. This switch provides a medium-heavy feel with a balanced actuation force, enhancing the overall typing experience. Conversely, the feel of the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch is currently unidentified.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch stands out for its clacky sound profile and creamy typing feel, providing a premium typing experience at a budget-friendly price point. While the sound and feel characteristics of the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch are currently unknown, based on the available information, it can be inferred that the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switch offers a satisfying typing experience with its unique sound and feel qualities. When opting for the Outemu Milk Blue switch, one can expect a similar level of performance in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch or the Outemu Milk Blue clicky switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy switch with a balanced feel and a clacky sound profile, the G Pro 3.0 Black would be a great choice for you. On the other hand, if you enjoy clicky switches and are looking for a switch with a unique feel and sound, the Outemu Milk Blue could be the switch for you. Remember to consider factors such as actuation and bottom-out force, sound profile, and typing feel when making your decision. Ultimately, the best switch for you is the one that aligns with your preferences and typing needs.
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