Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. Outemu Red Panda
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Outemu Red Panda switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black, a linear switch, to the Outemu Red Panda, a tactile switch, it is important to consider the unique features and characteristics of each. The G Pro 3.0 Black is favored for its heavier linear feel, with a 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force, providing a more substantial typing experience. In contrast, the Outemu Red Panda offers a light-medium tactile feedback, along with distinct bottom-out and top-out sounds. While the G Pro 3.0 Black boasts a frosted light diffuser for vibrant RGB lighting effects, the Red Panda is known for its bassier bottom-out sound. Ultimately, choosing between these switches will depend on personal preferences for typing feel and 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
50g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
60g
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
No
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
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Outemu Red Panda both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The G Pro 3.0 Black's proprietary INK blend top housing creates a clacky and relatively high-pitched sound, while the Red Panda's polycarbonate top housing produces a sharper and crisper sound. Additionally, the G Pro 3.0 Black's POM bottom housing results in a deeper and more muted sound, while the Red Panda's nylon bottom housing offers a fuller and rounder sound. Despite these differences, both switches showcase the impact that housing materials can have on the overall typing experience.
In terms of aesthetics, the G Pro 3.0 Black's polycarbonate top housing is more likely to enhance RGB lighting due to its translucency, giving it a visually appealing touch. On the other hand, the Red Panda's nylon bottom housing may not have the same visual impact, but its softer material contributes to a more absorbent sound profile. Ultimately, the choice between these two switches may come down to personal preference, whether you prioritize a sharper, crisper sound or a deeper, fuller sound in your typing experience.
While the top and bottom housing materials of the G Pro 3.0 Black and the Red Panda differ, it's important to consider how each material contributes to the overall typing feel and sound. The bottom housing, whether POM or nylon, will have a more significant impact on the bottom-out sound and feel when pressing down on a key. Conversely, the top housing, whether INK blend or polycarbonate, will influence the sound when letting go of a key. By understanding the role that housing materials play in switch performance, keyboard enthusiasts can make informed decisions based on their preferences for sound, feel, and aesthetics.
Weight
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch has a slightly heavier actuation force and bottom out force compared to the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch. The G Pro requires 60 grams of force to actuate a keystroke and 70 grams for bottoming out, while the Red Panda only needs 50 grams to actuate and 60 grams to bottom out. This means that the G Pro offers a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Red Panda provides a lighter touch that is ideal for prolonged typing or gaming sessions. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference for the desired weight of keystrokes.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, it is evident that the Red Panda with a 3.3 mm travel distance is shorter than the G Pro 3.0 Black with a 4 mm travel distance. The shorter travel distance of the Red Panda may appeal to gamers seeking faster response times, while the longer travel distance of the G Pro 3.0 Black may provide a more substantial feel when pressed. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, with the Red Panda being shorter and the G Pro 3.0 Black being longer. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference and desired typing experience.
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 Red Panda comes in at $3.40 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
When it comes to sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch is known for its clacky and somewhat subdued sound profile, offering a sharp and crisp typing experience without being overly loud. On the other hand, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch is described as thocky, providing a deeper and more satisfying sound when pressed. Both switches offer distinct auditory experiences, with the G Pro 3.0 Black leaning towards a sharper tone while the Red Panda delivers a richer sound.
In terms of feel, the G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch is praised for its creamy and silky typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery sensation with each key press. The subtle resistance of this switch makes it suitable for shared spaces where loud typing noises are unwanted. Conversely, the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch provides a mild typing experience that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone, appealing to a wider range of users who prefer a gentle tactile feedback without being too pronounced. Both switches offer unique tactile sensations tailored to different preferences.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch each have their own strengths in terms of sound and feel. While the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a clacky sound with a creamy and silky typing feel, the Red Panda provides a thocky sound and a mild tactile feedback. Depending on your preference for sound and typing experience, either switch can provide a satisfying mechanical keyboard experience. Ultimately, whether you choose the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black or the Outemu Red Panda, you can expect quality performance and a premium typing feel.
Conclusion
Bringing it all together, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Outemu Red Panda tactile switch, consider the following factors. If you prefer a heavier bottom-out force and a more substantial typing experience, with a medium-high pitch sound and vibrant RGB effects, the G Pro 3.0 Black may be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you appreciate a lighter bottom-out force, along with a bassier bottom-out sound and a clackier top-out sound for a unique typing experience, the Red Panda could be the switch that suits your preferences. Ultimately, your decision should be based on your personal typing style, desired feel, and sound preferences to ensure an enjoyable and satisfying typing experience.
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