Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. Jwick Semi-Silent Linear
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear mechanical keyboard switches, we see two distinct options catering to different preferences. The G Pro 3.0 Black stands out for its heaviest linear switch within the G Pro series, offering a substantive typing experience with a medium-heavy feel due to its 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear is praised for its innovative semi-silent design, providing a whisper-quiet topping-out sound alongside a clacky bottom-out sound. While the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a more vibrant RGB lighting experience, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear is known for its silky-smooth feel. 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
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.70 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
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
22mm gold-plated spring
Spring
Stainless steel
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches both feature unique housing materials that contribute to their distinct sound profiles. The G Pro 3.0 Black utilizes a proprietary INK blend top housing, which produces a thinner, higher-pitched sound that is often described as clacky. On the other hand, the Semi-Silent Linear incorporates a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper, crisper sound profile due to its stiffer nature. While both materials result in a satisfying typing experience, the INK blend top housing of the G Pro 3.0 Black offers a slightly softer sound compared to the more pronounced sound of the polycarbonate top housing in the Semi-Silent Linear.
In terms of the bottom housing materials, the G Pro 3.0 Black features a POM bottom housing that contributes to a deeper and more muted sound profile. This contrasts with the nylon bottom housing of the Semi-Silent Linear, which produces a fuller and rounder sound due to the softer nature of nylon. The choice of bottom housing material plays a crucial role in determining the overall typing experience of each switch. While POM offers a unique deep sound profile, nylon absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound that may appeal to those seeking a quieter typing experience.
Despite their differences in housing materials, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switches offer exceptional performance and a satisfying typing experience. The top and bottom housing materials of each switch work together to create a balanced sound profile that caters to different preferences. Whether you prefer the sharper sound of polycarbonate in the Semi-Silent Linear or the deeper tone of POM in the G Pro 3.0 Black, both switches deliver a high-quality typing experience that is sure to meet the needs of discerning users.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch differ slightly in weight. The G Pro 3.0 Black has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams and a bottom out force of 70 grams, making it more suitable for users who prefer a stronger push feel. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an unknown actuation force but a bottom out force of 62 grams, which is considered medium in terms of weight. Both switches offer a comparable typing experience, with the G Pro 3.0 Black providing a slightly heavier feel than the Semi-Silent Linear. Users who like lighter switches for longer typing or gaming sessions may prefer the Semi-Silent Linear, while those who enjoy a more substantial typing experience may opt for the G Pro 3.0 Black.
Travel distance
Comparing the travel distance of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear linear switch, we can see that the G Pro has a travel distance of 4 mm, while the Jwick has a travel distance of 3.7 mm. This makes the Jwick switch slightly shorter in terms of travel distance compared to the G Pro. If you prefer a faster response time and a shallower feel, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch would be the better option. On the other hand, if you prefer a bit more depth and feedback when typing, the G Pro 3.0 Black switch with its slightly longer travel distance may be the choice for you. Ultimately, both switches offer unique advantages depending on individual preferences in terms of travel distance.
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 Jwick Semi-Silent Linear has an MSRP of $6.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Semi-Silent Linear for $5.27.
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 somewhat subdued sound profile, offering a sharp and snappy noise when pressed. On the other hand, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch is praised for its semi-silent qualities, producing a whisper-quiet topping-out sound while maintaining a clacky bottom-out noise. Both switches offer a subtle sound signature, making them suitable for different preferences and environments. The actual sound experience will also be influenced by factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps used.
When it comes to feel, the G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch is described as creamy, silky, and subtle, offering a smooth and buttery typing experience with a balanced medium-heavy feel. In contrast, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch is characterized as mild, snappy, buttery, and polished, providing a gentle and responsive typing sensation with a silky smooth feel. Both switches aim to enhance the overall typing experience, catering to a variety of user preferences and typing styles.
Overall, both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch offer unique qualities in terms of sound and feel. While the G Pro 3.0 Black provides a more substantive typing experience with a clacky sound profile, the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch delivers a whisper-quiet and smooth typing feel. Depending on individual preferences for sound and typing experience, users can choose between these two switches to achieve similar results in terms of performance and quality.
Conclusion
Ultimately, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the Jwick Semi-Silent Linear switch, you should consider your preferences for typing experience. Choose the G Pro 3.0 Black if you value a medium-heavy actuation force, a balanced feel, and a more substantial typing experience with a clacky sound profile. On the other hand, opt for the Semi-Silent Linear if you prefer a smoother, semi-silent typing experience with a moderate actuation force and a more subdued sound profile. Both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different needs, so carefully consider your typing preferences before making a decision. Remember that your typing experience plays a crucial role in your overall satisfaction with your mechanical keyboard, so choose wisely based on what truly matters to you.
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