Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. SP-Star Polaris Gray
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the SP-Star Polaris Gray switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the SP-Star Polaris Gray mechanical keyboard switches, both linear switches with distinct characteristics, it's important to consider the differences in typing experience they offer. The G Pro 3.0 Black stands out for its heavyweight feel, appealing to those who enjoy a more substantial typing feedback with its 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray switch is favored for its bouncy typing experience and clean, clacky sound profile. While the G Pro 3.0 Black provides a medium-high pitch auditory experience with vibrant RGB lighting effects, the Polaris Gray offers a low-pitched sound and a polished typing feel. Ultimately, choosing between these switches depends on personal preferences and typing styles. 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
67g
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
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the SP-Star Polaris Gray both use polycarbonate material for their top housing, which results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile. This is due to the stiffness of polycarbonate, which enhances the clarity and resonance of the sound produced. However, the G Pro 3.0 Black has a proprietary INK blend top housing that is specifically designed to create a thin, high-pitched sound that is described as clacky. This unique blend offers a satisfying sound profile that sets it apart from the Polaris Gray.
In terms of the bottom housing, the G Pro 3.0 Black features a POM housing that creates a deeper and more muted sound profile. This contrasts with the Polaris Gray's polycarbonate bottom housing, which also contributes to the sharper and crisper sound profile of the switch. Both housing materials bring their own unique qualities to the overall sound and feel of the switch, with POM offering a different experience compared to polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate in the Polaris Gray allows for RGB lighting to shine through, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the switch.
While both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housing, the differences in their bottom housing materials result in distinct sound profiles. The G Pro 3.0 Black's split between POM and INK blend top housing creates a unique combination of deep and clacky sound qualities. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray's consistent use of polycarbonate throughout the housing allows for a sharper and crisper sound profile overall. Depending on personal preference for sound and feel, both switches offer a different experience based on the materials used for their top and bottom housings.
Weight
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it a medium-heavy switch. In contrast, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch has an actuation force that is unspecified and a bottom out force of 67 grams, also falling into the medium-heavy category. While we don't have the specific actuation force for the Polaris Gray switch, both switches provide a similar typing experience due to their comparable bottom out forces. When it comes to weight preferences, individuals who prefer a lighter touch may lean towards the G Pro 3.0 Black switch for longer typing or gaming sessions, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing feel may opt for the slightly heavier Polaris Gray switch. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches may come down to personal preference and typing style.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that both switches will offer a similar typing experience in terms of the distance the key travels from top to bottom. The consistency in travel distance between the two switches ensures that users will get consistent feedback regardless of which switch they choose. This makes them both great options for those looking for a linear switch with a predictable 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 SP-Star Polaris Gray has an MSRP of $5.60 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Polaris Gray for $5.00.
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 best characterized as having a clacky sound profile, offering a sharp and snappy sound when pressed. This creates a crisp, bright, and percussive auditory experience. On the other hand, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch is described as having a low-pitched and thocky sound, featuring a more bass-heavy and mellow tone with a deep, rich, and satisfying sound when pressed. Depending on personal preference, the G Pro 3.0 Black may appeal to those who enjoy a sharper sound, while the Polaris Gray may suit those who prefer a deeper and more resonant sound.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch provides a creamy and silky typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery sensation when typing. This smoothness enhances the overall typing feel and minimizes resistance, allowing for effortless keystrokes. In comparison, the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch offers a mild and polished typing experience, providing a gentle typing feel with reduced friction and smooth key travel. Both switches offer a pleasant typing experience, with the G Pro 3.0 Black leaning towards a smoother and more effortless feel, while the Polaris Gray focuses on being approachable and polished.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch cater to different preferences in terms of sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 Black excels in providing a clacky sound and a creamy, silky typing experience, perfect for those who enjoy a sharper sound and a smoother feel. On the other hand, the Polaris Gray delivers a low-pitched, thocky sound and a mild, polished typing feel, appealing to individuals who prefer a deeper sound profile and a gentler typing experience. Each switch offers unique qualities that cater to different preferences, ensuring that users can find a switch that matches their desired typing experience.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the SP-Star Polaris Gray linear switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you desire a more substantial and tactile typing feel with a medium-heavy bottom-out force, the G Pro 3.0 Black would be a suitable choice. Its balanced actuation and bottom-out force, along with a medium-high pitch sound profile, provide a satisfying typing experience. On the other hand, if you prefer a bouncier typing feel with a slightly lower bottom-out force, the Polaris Gray switch is the way to go. Its clean and clacky sound profile, combined with a neutral and thocky feel, offers a different typing experience that may appeal to those seeking a smoother and more refined typing feel. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preference for typing experience and sound profile.
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