Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. Gateron Quinn
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Gateron Quinn switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When deciding between mechanical keyboard switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Gateron Quinn offer distinct typing experiences to users. The G Pro 3.0 Black is a linear switch known for its heavy actuation and bottom-out force, appealing to those who prefer a more substantial typing feel. On the other hand, the Quinn switch provides a tactile experience with a unique combination of crisp tactility and a deep, resonant sound profile. While the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a medium-heavy, clacky typing experience, the Quinn switch delivers a snappy and bassy feel with added character from the immersive sound. 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
59g
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
3.40 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
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
22mm double-stage gold-plated
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Gateron Quinn have distinct housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The G Pro 3.0 Black features a proprietary INK blend top housing that produces a pointed and relatively high-pitched sound profile, often described as clacky. In contrast, the Quinn utilizes a nylon top housing that creates a deeper and fuller sound, thanks to nylon's softer plastic that absorbs more sound. This results in a duller and rounder sound compared to the G Pro 3.0 Black.
When it comes to the bottom housing, the G Pro 3.0 Black incorporates a POM material that generates a unique and pleasing deeper sound profile. On the other hand, the Quinn utilizes a nylon bottom housing that also contributes to a deeper and fuller sound due to its softer plastic composition. Both switches benefit from the sound absorption properties of nylon, creating a more muted and round sound overall compared to switches with harder plastic housings.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Gateron Quinn offer different sound experiences based on their housing materials. While the G Pro 3.0 Black leans towards a sharper and clackier sound profile with its INK blend top housing, the Quinn provides a deeper and fuller sound with its nylon top housing. Similarly, both switches utilize nylon bottom housings to enhance sound absorption and create a more muted and round sound. Depending on personal preference, users can choose between the two switches based on the type of sound profile they prefer.
Weight
When comparing the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, it is evident that both switches have similar weight profiles. The G Pro 3.0 Black has an actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, while the Quinn has an actuation force of 59 grams and a bottom out force of 67 grams. Although the G Pro 3.0 Black is slightly heavier in both categories, the differences are minimal. Both switches fall into the medium-heavy category, providing a balance between typing comfort and feedback. For users who prefer a lighter feel for extended typing sessions, either switch would be suitable. However, for those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, both switches offer a satisfying level of resistance. In conclusion, the actuation and bottom out forces of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch offer comparable performance, providing users with similar results regardless of their choice.
Travel distance
In comparing the travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, it is evident that the G Pro 3.0 Black has a longer travel distance of 4 mm, while the Quinn has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. The G Pro 3.0 Black offers a more traditional travel distance, providing a deeper key press compared to the shallower feel of the Quinn. Gamers looking for faster response times may prefer the Gateron Quinn with its shorter travel distance, while those seeking a more substantial key press may opt for the G Pro 3.0 Black. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for travel distance and key 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 Gateron Quinn has an MSRP of $6.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Quinn for $5.50.
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 and subdued sound profile, offering a sharp and snappy sound with a subtle and dampened quality. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch provides a bassy, clacky, low-pitched, and resonant sound, offering a deep, rich, and immersive auditory experience with a clean and sharp sound profile. Both switches deliver distinct sound profiles, with the G Pro 3.0 Black leaning towards a crisper and brighter tone, while the Quinn switch provides a more bass-heavy and mellow sound.
When it comes to feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch offers a creamy, silky, and subtle typing experience, characterized by a smooth and buttery sensation with gentle resistance and a light feel. On the other hand, the Gateron Quinn tactile switch provides a snappy, polished, bouncy, accented, buttery, and creamy typing experience, giving a super responsive, smooth, refined, elastic feedback sensation with prominent tactility. Both switches offer unique tactile feedback, with the G Pro 3.0 Black focusing on a silky and easy keystroke, while the Quinn switch provides a lively and responsive typing feel.
Overall, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch each offer distinct sound and feel experiences that cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Black provides a medium-heavy feel with a clacky sound and a smooth, buttery typing experience, while the Quinn switch delivers a deep, resonant sound and a crisp tactile bump along with a lively and bouncy typing feel. Depending on whether you prefer a heavier linear switch with a crisper sound or a tactile switch with a rich sound profile and prominent tactility, you can choose between the G Pro 3.0 Black and the Quinn switch to enhance your typing experience. Ultimately, both switches offer premium quality and unique characteristics that will elevate your mechanical keyboard setup.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Gateron Quinn tactile switch, consider your preferences for typing experience and sound profile. If you prefer a medium-heavy typing feel with a balanced actuation and bottom-out force, along with a medium-high pitch sound and vibrant RGB lighting effects, the G Pro 3.0 Black may be the switch for you. On the other hand, if you appreciate a crisp, light switch-like tactility with a deep, resonant sound profile and a touch of character to your typing experience, the Quinn switch could be the better choice. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel, sound, and overall typing experience.
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