Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. Durock POM T1 (Sunflower)
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) mechanical keyboard switches, you'll find yourself faced with distinct characteristics that cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Black stands out for its heavy linear design, offering a balanced medium-heavy feel that enhances the typing experience with a satisfying clicky sound. On the other hand, the POM T1 (Sunflower) is praised for its intense tactility, delivering a sharp and clean clack that invigorates every keystroke. While the G Pro 3.0 Black provides a creamy and subtle typing experience, the POM T1 (Sunflower) offers a snappy and resonant feel. Each switch has its own unique qualities that appeal to different types of users, so choosing between them ultimately comes down to personal preference. 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
No
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
Proprietary
Top housing material
Proprietary INK blend
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
POM
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 Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) both feature POM housing material, known for creating a unique and pleasing sound profile. However, the G Pro 3.0 Black's proprietary INK blend top housing offers a pointed, high-pitched sound that is described as clacky, while the POM top housing in the POM T1 (Sunflower) creates a deeper and more muted sound. This key difference in sound profile may appeal to different preferences, with the G Pro 3.0 Black offering a sharper sound and the POM T1 providing a more subdued tone.
In terms of bottom housing material, both switches also utilize POM housing which contributes to the overall sound profile and feel of the switch. The POM bottom housing in both the G Pro 3.0 Black and the POM T1 (Sunflower) delivers a deeper sound profile that is relatively more muted compared to other housing materials. This consistent use of POM material in the bottom housing ensures a similar experience in terms of sound and feel when typing on these switches.
While the top and bottom housings play a significant role in determining the sound profile and feel of a switch, the impact of each housing material can be felt in different ways. The G Pro 3.0 Black's bottom housing has more influence on the bottom-out sound and feel when typing, while the top housing affects the sound when releasing a key. Similarly, the POM T1 (Sunflower) features a split between the qualities of the top and bottom housing materials, ensuring that both aspects contribute to the overall typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between these switches may come down to personal preference for sound profile and feel.
Weight
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch offer different weight options for users to consider. The G Pro 3.0 Black has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, providing a medium-heavy feel. In contrast, the POM T1 (Sunflower) has an unknown actuation force and a bottom out force of 67 grams, also falling into the medium-heavy category. This means that users can expect a similar typing experience in terms of pressure required for both switches. Some may prefer the G Pro 3.0 Black for its slightly lighter actuation force, allowing for longer typing sessions, while others may prefer the POM T1 for its slightly heavier bottom out force, providing a more substantial typing experience. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will come down to individual preference for typing feel.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when pressing down on a key equipped with either switch, you will experience a similar travel distance from the top to the bottom. Both switches provide consistent feedback and actuation at the same distance, making them suitable choices for those who prefer a standard travel distance in their mechanical keyboard switches. Overall, the travel distance of both switches is equal, ensuring a comparable typing experience for users.
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 Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) has an MSRP of $7.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the POM T1 (Sunflower) for $5.57.
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 described as clacky, offering a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, giving a crisp and bright auditory experience. On the other hand, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch is resonant, providing a higher-pitched sound profile that is clean and sharp. While subjective, the sound preference ultimately comes down to personal preference and the overall setup of the keyboard.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch is known for its creamy and silky typing experience, offering smooth and buttery keypresses that glide effortlessly. In contrast, the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch is sharp and accented, providing a high feedback intensity with a distinct tactile bump in each keypress. Again, the feel of a switch is subjective and dependent on individual preferences for typing experience.
Overall, choosing between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound and feel. Both switches offer unique characteristics that cater to different typing styles and preferences. Whether you prefer a clacky and medium-heavy linear switch or a resonant and sharp tactile switch, both options provide quality and performance that will enhance your overall typing experience. Ultimately, trying out both switches on a test keyboard or seeking advice from fellow mechanical keyboard enthusiasts can help you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Durock POM T1 (Sunflower) tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience. If you prefer a medium-heavy linear switch with a balanced feel and clacky sound profile, then the G Pro 3.0 Black is the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you seek maximum tactility with a sharp tactile bump and resonant sound profile, then the POM T1 (Sunflower) is the switch to go for. Ultimately, your decision should be based on whether you prioritize smoothness and medium-heavy feel or intense tactility and sharp feedback in your mechanical keyboard switches.
Mentioned in this article
