Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. Outemu Silent Green
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Outemu Silent Green switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Outemu Silent Green mechanical keyboard switches, one can see distinct differences in their design and performance. The G Pro 3.0 Black stands out for its premium quality and budget-friendly price point, offering a heavier linear switch experience with a balanced 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the Silent Green switch lacks specific standout features but is known for its silent operation. The G Pro 3.0 Black provides a more tactile and audible typing experience, while the Silent Green offers a quieter typing experience. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
60g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-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 Silent Green, we can see that both switches feature polycarbonate top housings. The polycarbonate material used in the top housing of both switches creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is because polycarbonate is a stiff plastic that leads to a clear and resonant sound. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate makes it ideal for switches that plan to utilize RGB lighting. While the G Pro 3.0 Black boasts a proprietary INK blend top housing that is characterized by a slightly different sound profile, the use of polycarbonate in the Silent Green aligns with similar sound characteristics in terms of pitch and clarity.
On the other hand, the G Pro 3.0 Black features a POM bottom housing, which creates a deeper and relatively more muted sound profile. This unique sound quality is distinct from the sharper, crisper sound produced by the polycarbonate bottom housing of the Outemu Silent Green. The difference in bottom housing materials between the two switches results in varying tactile and auditory experiences when pressing down on the keys. The bottom housing plays a significant role in determining the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing has a larger impact on the sound produced when releasing a key.
In essence, the choice of housing materials between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Outemu Silent Green influences the overall sound profile and feel of the switches. While both switches utilize polycarbonate for the top housing, the G Pro 3.0 Black's INK blend top housing offers a slightly different sound characteristic compared to the Silent Green. The use of POM in the bottom housing of the G Pro 3.0 Black further distinguishes its sound profile from the Silent Green's all-polycarbonate construction. Ultimately, the housing materials play a critical role in shaping the typing experience and sound output of mechanical switches, providing users with a variety of options to suit their preferences.
Weight
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch has a higher actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Outemu Silent Green linear switch. The G Pro 3.0 Black requires 60 grams of force to actuate a keystroke and 70 grams to bottom out, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the Silent Green only needs 45 grams to actuate and 60 grams to bottom out, putting it in the medium category. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Silent Green for longer typing sessions or gaming, while 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 for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Outemu Silent Green linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key using either of these switches, you will experience the same amount of travel distance. Both switches provide a consistent typing experience in terms of how far the key travels from the top to the bottom. This makes them suitable choices for individuals who prefer a specific travel distance when typing or gaming. Ultimately, whether you choose the G Pro 3.0 Black or the Outemu Silent Green, you can expect a similar level of satisfaction and performance in terms of 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 Silent Green 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 known for its clacky sound profile, which provides a sharp and snappy auditory experience. This produces a crisp, bright, and percussive sound when pressed. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Green linear switch's sound characteristics are unknown, so it's difficult to directly compare the two in this aspect. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by factors like the keyboard board and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch is praised for its creamy and silky typing experience. Users can expect a smooth and buttery sensation when typing, as the keys effortlessly glide under their fingers with minimal resistance. This contributes to an overall pleasant and satisfying typing feel. Conversely, the feel of the Outemu Silent Green linear switch is unspecified, making it challenging to draw a direct comparison between the two switches in this regard.
Taking all the available information into account, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch stands out for its premium quality, balanced medium-heavy feel, clacky sound profile, and smooth typing experience. On the other hand, details about the Outemu Silent Green linear switch are limited, making it hard to make a direct comparison in terms of sound and feel. If you are looking for a linear switch with a heavier actuation force, a clacky sound, and a creamy typing feel, the G Pro 3.0 Black could be a suitable choice. However, if you are specifically seeking a silent switch option, further research on the Outemu Silent Green may be necessary to determine if it aligns with your preferences. Ultimately, both switches may offer similar results in certain aspects, but it's essential to consider your priorities and preferences before making a decision.
Conclusion
To sum up, when considering whether to choose the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch or the Outemu Silent Green linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences. If you prefer a heavier typing experience with a more pronounced tactile and auditory feedback, the G Pro 3.0 Black may be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you prioritize a smoother and quieter typing experience with a lighter actuation force, the Silent Green could be the ideal choice. Consider your typing style, environment, and desired feel and sound when making your decision between these two switches. Ultimately, both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different preferences, so choose the one that best aligns with your needs and preferences.