Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. Jerrzi Salt Ice
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Jerrzi Salt Ice switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Jerrzi Salt Ice mechanical keyboard switches, it's clear that both offer unique qualities that cater to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Black stands out for its heavy linear switch design, appealing to those who prefer a more weighty typing experience. With a 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force, it provides a balanced medium-heavy feel, enhanced by a medium-high pitch auditory experience and vibrant RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the Salt Ice switches offer a bright and clacky typing experience with a light touch, making them ideal for users looking for energetic and responsive feedback. While both switches have their own strengths, it ultimately comes down to personal preference when choosing the best switch for your typing needs. 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
45g
Bottom-out force
70g
Bottom-out force
N/A
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
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
Polycarbonate
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Jerrzi Salt Ice, it is clear that both switches offer distinct sound profiles due to their housing materials. The G Pro 3.0 Black features a proprietary INK blend top housing that generates a thin and clacky sound, while the Salt Ice utilizes a polycarbonate top housing for a sharper and crisper sound profile. Although both switches produce unique sound characteristics, the G Pro 3.0 Black emphasizes a higher-pitched sound, whereas the Salt Ice leans towards a more resonant and clear sound due to the stiffer polycarbonate material.
Additionally, when examining the bottom housings of these switches, the G Pro 3.0 Black's POM bottom housing contributes to a deeper and more muted sound profile, contrasting with the Salt Ice's polycarbonate bottom housing, which enhances the switch’s overall sharpness and clarity. Despite their differences, both switches highlight the importance of housing materials in determining the sound characteristics of mechanical switches. The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Jerrzi Salt Ice showcase how variations in housing materials can impact the overall typing experience for users, whether they prefer a deeper and more muted sound or a sharper and crisper typing sound.
Overall, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Jerrzi Salt Ice may differ in their housing materials, they both offer aesthetically pleasing options for users seeking unique sound profiles in their mechanical keyboards. The use of POM and polycarbonate materials in the bottom and top housings of these switches, respectively, allows for a diverse range of sound experiences for mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. Whether one prefers the clacky sound of the G Pro 3.0 Black or the clear and resonant sound of the Salt Ice, both switches demonstrate the significance of housing materials in achieving desired typing sounds and overall tactile feedback.
Weight
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch has a higher actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, which has a lighter actuation force of 45 grams. When it comes to bottom out force, the G Pro 3.0 Black requires 70 grams, while the Salt Ice force is unknown. This makes the G Pro 3.0 Black switch slightly heavier than the Salt Ice switch in terms of both actuation and bottom out force. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the Salt Ice switch for extended typing or gaming sessions, while others seeking a more substantial typing experience may prefer the heavier actuation force of the G Pro 3.0 Black switch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for typing feel and force requirements.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, we see that the G Pro 3.0 Black has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Salt Ice has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. The G Pro 3.0 Black offers a more traditional travel distance, providing a balance between depth and responsiveness. On the other hand, the Salt Ice is designed for quicker response times, making it preferred by gamers for its shorter travel distance. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches depends on personal preference - whether you value a deeper key press or a faster response. Both switches provide a different typing experience, offering unique benefits to suit individual needs.
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 Jerrzi Salt Ice has an MSRP of $2.79 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Salt Ice for $2.30.
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 known for its clacky and subdued sound profile. The switch produces a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, offering a crisp and bright auditory experience. On the other hand, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch does not have a specific sound description provided in the information. Both switches' sound profiles may be influenced by factors such as keyboard build, keycap material, and typing technique.
Moving on to the feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch is characterized as creamy, silky, and subtle in terms of typing experience. The switch offers a smooth and buttery feel due to lubrication applied in the factory or specific materials used, allowing for effortless keystrokes. In contrast, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch does not have a specific feel description provided. While the G Pro 3.0 Black boasts a balanced medium-heavy feel, the Salt Ice possibly offers a lightweight and responsive typing sensation. Both switches' tactile responses are crucial factors in determining user preference and comfort during extended typing sessions.
Taking all available information into consideration, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch appeals to users seeking a substantial typing experience with a clacky sound profile and a smooth typing feel. In contrast, the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch is an ideal choice for those desiring bright and energetic feedback with a light touch, although specific sound and feel characteristics are not provided. Ultimately, the decision between these switches will depend on individual preferences for sound, feel, actuation force, and overall typing experience. However, it should be noted that both switches offer unique qualities that can enhance the user's mechanical keyboard experience.
Conclusion
In closing, when considering whether to choose the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch or the Jerrzi Salt Ice linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and typing style. If you prefer a medium-heavy feel with a balanced actuation force and a more substantial typing experience, the G Pro 3.0 Black may be the better choice for you. On the other hand, if you are looking for a bright and clacky typing experience with vibrant feedback and effortless actuation, the Salt Ice switches may be more suited to your preferences. Consider factors such as bottom out force, sound profile, and typing feel to determine which switch will best enhance your typing experience.
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