Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black vs. SP-Star Duck
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the SP-Star Duck switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing between mechanical keyboard switches, there are a plethora of options available to suit different preferences and typing styles. The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black stands out as a linear switch, offering a hefty typing experience with its 60g actuation and 70g bottom-out force. This switch is ideal for those who prefer a substantial feel while typing, accompanied by a medium-high pitch sound profile and vibrant RGB lighting effects. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck provides a more gentle tactile typing experience, with a clean and crispy sound profile that appeals to those looking for a subtle tactility. While the G Pro 3.0 Black caters to users seeking a more robust typing experience, the Duck switch is perfect for those who prefer a polished and buttery 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
58g
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
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
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
Gold plated
Housing materials
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the SP-Star Duck both have unique housing materials that contribute to their sound profiles. The G Pro 3.0 Black features a proprietary INK blend top housing, known for its satisfying thin and higher-pitched sound, while the Duck utilizes a polycarbonate top housing that creates a sharper and crisper sound profile. Both materials offer a distinct auditory experience, with the INK blend providing a slightly less sharp sound compared to the polycarbonate.
In terms of the bottom housing, the G Pro 3.0 Black boasts a POM housing that creates a deeper and relatively more muted sound, contrasting with the sharper and higher-pitched sound produced by the Duck's polycarbonate bottom housing. While both materials offer unique sound profiles, the POM housing may provide a more subdued sound experience compared to the clearer and resonant sound profile of polycarbonate. Additionally, the translucency of polycarbonate gives it an advantage for users looking to incorporate RGB lighting into their setup.
Overall, the choice between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black and the SP-Star Duck ultimately comes down to personal preference in sound profile. The G Pro 3.0 Black offers a more balanced sound with its combination of INK blend and POM housing, providing a mix of thin and deep tones. In contrast, the SP-Star Duck's polycarbonate housing creates a sharper and crisper sound profile that may appeal to users seeking a more distinct auditory experience. Regardless of the choice, both switches showcase the impact that housing materials can have on the overall sound and feel of a mechanical keyboard switch.
Weight
The actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch differ in a few key ways. The G Pro 3.0 Black has a heavier actuation force of 60 grams compared to the Duck, which has an unknown actuation force. The G Pro 3.0 Black also has a higher bottom out force of 70 grams, while the Duck has a bottom out force of 58 grams. This means that the G Pro 3.0 Black provides a more substantial typing experience with a stronger push feel, while the Duck offers a slightly lighter typing experience, making it easier to type for longer periods of time. Overall, when comparing the two switches, the G Pro 3.0 Black is heavier in terms of both actuation and bottom out forces, while the Duck is lighter. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches would depend on personal preference for typing feel and weight preference.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience a similar distance traveled from the top to the bottom. Both switches offer a consistent typing experience in terms of travel distance. Therefore, whether you choose the G Pro 3.0 Black or the Duck switch, you can expect to get similar results in terms of key travel.
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 SP-Star Duck has an MSRP of $5.80 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Duck for $5.40.
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 offers a clacky sound profile, providing a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, which can be described as crisp, bright, and percussive. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offers a neutral sound profile, with a moderate actuation force requirement and a moderate sound profile, making it suitable for various typing scenarios. Keep in mind that the sound of a switch can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to the feel of the switches, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch is known for its creamy and silky typing experience, offering a smooth and buttery sensation while typing. This switch provides an effortless keystroke experience that feels like gliding across the keys with ease. In contrast, the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offers a mild and approachable typing experience, providing a gentle typing feel that falls in a safe middle-ground zone. Both switches aim to provide a comfortable typing experience but cater to different preferences in terms of tactility.
In conclusion, while the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch offer different sound and feel profiles, both switches aim to deliver a satisfying typing experience. The G Pro 3.0 Black provides a heavier actuation force and a clacky sound, suited for those who prefer a more substantial typing feedback. On the other hand, the SP-Star Duck offers a more subtle and gentle typing experience, with a neutral sound profile that can cater to a wider range of users. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will come down to personal preference in terms of sound, feel, and typing experience desired.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 Black linear switch and the SP-Star Duck tactile switch, consider your preference for typing experience. If you enjoy a more substantial and clacky typing experience with a medium-heavy bottom-out force, the G Pro 3.0 Black may be the right choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer a gentler tactile feel with a moderate bottom-out force and a clean, crispy sound profile, the SP-Star Duck switch could be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preferences for typing feel and sound. Consider trying out different switches to see which one aligns best with your typing style.
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