Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. Outemu Silent Ocean
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Outemu Silent Ocean switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Outemu Silent Ocean mechanical keyboard switches, we find two linear switches that offer distinct features for different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Black boasts a heavy linear switch with a 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial typing experience. Its medium-high pitch auditory feedback and vibrant RGB lighting effects make it stand out. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean offers a quieter typing experience, making it ideal for those who prioritize a silent environment. While the G Pro 3.0 Black is known for its 'Clacky', 'Creamy', 'Subdued', 'Silky', and 'Subtle' attributes, the Silent Ocean's characteristics are yet to be defined. 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
65g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.60 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 comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Outemu Silent Ocean, one noticeable difference is in the top housing material. The G Pro 3.0 Black features a proprietary INK blend top housing, which produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile described as clacky. On the other hand, the Silent Ocean's polycarbonate top housing creates a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. The stiffness of polycarbonate plastic leads to a more clear and resonant sound compared to the INK blend top housing. While both offer a satisfying sound experience, the choice between the two will ultimately depend on personal preference for sound profile.
Another point of comparison between the two switches lies in their bottom housing materials. The G Pro 3.0 Black utilizes a POM bottom housing, creating a deeper and relatively more muted sound profile. In contrast, the Silent Ocean features a nylon bottom housing which elicits a deeper and fuller sound profile. The softness of nylon plastic allows for more sound absorption, resulting in a duller and rounder sound compared to the POM bottom housing. Depending on whether one prefers a deeper, fuller sound or a more muted sound, the choice between these two materials will impact the overall typing experience.
While there are differences in both the top and bottom housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Outemu Silent Ocean, the qualities each material brings can affect the overall sound and feel of the switch. The split between the top and bottom housing means that the bottom housing will have more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing a key, while the top housing will have more influence on the sound when releasing a key. Ultimately, both switches offer unique sound profiles based on their housing materials, providing users with a variety of options to cater to their specific preferences in typing experience.
Weight
Comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch, we find that the G Pro 3.0 Black has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Silent Ocean's lighter 45 grams. However, both switches have a similar bottom out force, with the G Pro 3.0 Black at 70 grams and the Silent Ocean at 65 grams, making them both medium-heavy in this aspect. The G Pro 3.0 Black provides a more substantial typing experience with its heavier actuation force, while the Silent Ocean offers a lighter touch for longer periods of typing or gaming sessions. Whether a user prefers a lighter or heavier typing experience will ultimately determine which switch is the better choice for them.
Travel distance
Both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch have a travel distance of 4 mm, making them equal in this aspect. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either of these switches, users will experience a consistent travel distance of 4 mm. This similarity in travel distance ensures that users will get similar results in terms of keypress feel and actuation depth. Overall, both switches provide a comfortable and reliable typing experience with their identical travel distances.
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 Ocean 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 medium-high pitch sound, described as clacky and somewhat subdued. This combination provides users with a sharp and snappy yet somewhat dampened auditory experience. On the other hand, the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch's sound qualities are unknown, leaving a question mark on its sound signature. Moving on to the feel, the G Pro 3.0 Black is praised for its creamy and silky typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery sensation with a balanced medium-heavy feel. Meanwhile, the feel of the Silent Ocean switch remains a mystery, leaving potential users uncertain about the typing experience it provides.
In conclusion, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch boasts a distinct sound profile and a luxurious typing feel, the information about the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch is incomplete. As a newcomer, opting for the G Pro 3.0 Black would likely result in a satisfying and premium typing experience, especially if you prefer a heavier actuation force and a clacky sound with a smooth feel. Due to the unknown qualities of the Outemu Silent Ocean switch, choosing this option may involve more uncertainty in terms of the sound and feel it offers. Ultimately, it's important to consider your personal preferences and priorities when selecting the right mechanical keyboard switch for your setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a medium-heavy linear switch that offers a more substantive typing experience with a balanced feel and a medium-high pitch sound, then the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black would be a great choice. Additionally, if you appreciate a creamy, silky, or subtle typing feel, the G Pro 3.0 Black delivers in that aspect as well. On the other hand, if you prefer a slightly lighter bottom-out force, a quieter typing experience, and are indifferent to sound and feel descriptions, the Outemu Silent Ocean linear switch might be more suitable for you. Ultimately, the decision between the G Pro 3.0 Black and the Silent Ocean hinges on your specific preferences for typing feel, sound, and bottom-out force.