Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. Outemu Phoenix
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Outemu Phoenix switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Outemu Phoenix mechanical keyboard switches, one can immediately notice the distinct differences in their characteristics. The G Pro 3.0 Black, a linear switch, boasts a heavy actuation and bottom-out force, providing a more substantial typing experience for those who prefer precision and weightier key presses. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix, a clicky switch, stands out for its unique under-skirt click mechanism, offering a crystalline and sparkling typing experience unmatched by other switches. While the G Pro 3.0 Black excels in providing a balanced medium-heavy feel and vibrant RGB lighting effects, the Phoenix shines with its crunchy and polished sound profile. 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
N/A
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.30 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
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black features a top housing made of their proprietary INK blend, which results in a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile that is described as clacky. In contrast, the Outemu Phoenix utilizes a polycarbonate top housing, creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. While both materials offer a satisfying sound, the G Pro 3.0 Black's INK blend may provide a slightly different tone compared to the Phoenix's polycarbonate top housing.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the G Pro 3.0 Black stands out with its POM bottom housing, which produces a deeper and relatively more muted sound profile. On the other hand, the Phoenix features a polycarbonate bottom housing, contributing to a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound. Despite the differences in sound characteristics between the two bottom housings, both materials offer unique sound profiles that can enhance the overall typing experience for users of each switch.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Outemu Phoenix may come down to personal preference in sound profile. While the G Pro 3.0 Black combines an INK blend top housing with a POM bottom housing for a balanced sound experience, the Phoenix uses polycarbonate for both top and bottom housings, resulting in a sharper and clearer sound profile throughout. Whether one prefers a deeper and muted sound or a sharper and crisper sound, both switches offer high-quality housing materials that can cater to different typing preferences.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch differ in weight. The G Pro 3.0 Black has a higher actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Phoenix, which has an unknown actuation force. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the Phoenix requires 62 grams, whereas the G Pro 3.0 Black requires 70 grams. This makes the G Pro 3.0 Black heavier in terms of bottom out force. Those who prefer a lighter typing experience may lean towards the Phoenix, as its bottom out force is slightly lighter. However, for individuals who prefer a more substantial push feel, the G Pro 3.0 Black may be the better choice. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, we can see that the G Pro 3.0 Black has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Phoenix has a slightly shorter travel distance of 3.3 mm. The G Pro 3.0 Black offers a more traditional 4 mm travel distance, providing a slightly deeper keypress feel. On the other hand, the Phoenix with its 3.3 mm travel distance offers a shallower keypress, which may appeal to gamers looking for faster response times. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for keypress depth and responsiveness. Both switches offer their own advantages, with the G Pro 3.0 Black catering to those who prefer a longer travel distance and the Phoenix catering to those who prefer a shorter travel distance for quicker input.
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 Phoenix comes in at $4.15 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 offers a clacky and somewhat subdued typing experience, characterized by a sharp and snappy sound with a medium-high pitch that isn't overly loud. On the other hand, the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch provides a crunchy sound profile reminiscent of stepping on piles of autumn leaves. Depending on personal preference, the G Pro 3.0 Black may be more suitable for those who prefer a crisp and bright sound without being too disruptive, while the Phoenix switch appeals to individuals looking for a more tactile and audibly satisfying typing experience.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black switch offers a creamy and silky typing experience, thanks to its medium-heavy actuation force and smooth keystrokes. The switch provides a balanced typing feel with a gentle resistance, making it suitable for extended typing sessions. On the contrary, the Outemu Phoenix switch is described as polished, offering a refined and sleek typing experience with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches provide a comfortable typing feel, but the G Pro 3.0 Black may appeal more to those seeking a slightly heavier actuation force and a smoother keystroke.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch offer distinct sound and feel qualities that cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Black provides a clacky and subdued sound profile with a creamy and silky typing feel, suitable for those looking for a medium-heavy switch with smooth keystrokes. Meanwhile, the Outemu Phoenix switch delivers a crunchy sound and polished feel, ideal for individuals seeking a tactile and refined typing experience. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preference, with both options offering unique qualities that can enhance your typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Outemu Phoenix clicky switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you prefer a medium-heavy typing feel with a balanced actuation force and a more substantial typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Black is the right choice for you. Additionally, if you appreciate a clacky and subdued sound profile, this switch may be more suitable. On the other hand, if you enjoy a unique clicky switch with a crystalline feel and sound, the Phoenix is the switch for you. Its under-skirt click mechanism provides a distinctive typing experience. Ultimately, the decision between these switches boils down to your personal preference for typing feel and sound profile.
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